Portable Ladder Safety Inspections
The Problem
Portable ladders are used daily on job sites, but a damaged or poorly maintained ladder can fail without warning. This can lead to serious falls, injuries, or fatalities. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) recommends that ladders be inspected before each use and after any event that could cause damage. Today, we’ll identify the hazards related to ladders, the importance of inspections, and how to safely handle damaged ladders.
Identify the Hazards
- Falls: Structural defects, missing components, or slippery surfaces can cause a person to fall.
- Ladder Failure: Bent rails, cracked steps, or loose fasteners may cause the ladder to collapse.
- Improper Repairs: Makeshift repairs or modifications can weaken the ladder’s structural integrity.
- Impact Damage: Dropping ladders or poor storage can cause hidden damage.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
- When to Inspect Ladders:
- Before Each Use: Inspect ladders at the start of every shift.
- After an Incident: Inspect ladders immediately after they’ve been dropped, knocked over, or damaged.
- What to Look For During Inspections:
- Structural Damage:
- Check side rails for cracks, splits, dents, or bends.
- Inspect rungs, cleats, and braces for damage or splinters.
- Hardware and Components:
- Ensure rivets, bolts, and fasteners are tight.
- Verify that spreaders, locks, and hinges are functioning properly.
- Surface Issues:
- Look for grease, oil, paint, corrosion, or heat damage (such as blistering).
- Look for grease, oil, paint, corrosion, or heat damage (such as blistering).
- Feet and Accessories:
- Check for intact non-slip feet.
- Examine pulleys, ropes, and casters for wear or damage.
- Unauthorized Repairs:
- Never use a ladder that has been modified or patched up with makeshift fixes.
- Never use a ladder that has been modified or patched up with makeshift fixes.
- Structural Damage:
- Handling Damaged Ladders:
- Tag and Isolate: Immediately tag damaged ladders with "Do Not Use" and isolate them from service.
- Repair or Replace: Only competent persons may perform repairs that return the ladder to its original manufacturer’s standard. If it cannot be repaired, the ladder must be destroyed and replaced.
- Preventing Ladder Damage:
- Storage: Store ladders in a secure, dry, designated area away from high-traffic zones.
- Transport: Secure ladders properly on vehicles or trolleys to prevent cracks or dents.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a recent site, a ladder with a cracked side rail went unnoticed during the morning inspection. It collapsed mid-use, causing the worker to fall and sustain a broken ankle. A thorough pre-use inspection would have identified the issue and prevented the injury.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect ladders thoroughly before each use.
- Tag and report damaged ladders immediately.
- Never use ladders with missing parts, damage, or unauthorized repairs.
- Store and transport ladders properly to avoid damage.
Employer Responsibilities
Discussion & Questions
- "Have you ever found a damaged ladder on-site? What did you do?"
- "What are the most common ladder issues you’ve come across during inspections?"
Encourage open discussion and reinforce the need for thorough daily checks.
Commitment/Action Plan
Starting today, let’s commit to inspecting every ladder before use and reporting any faults immediately. A quick check could prevent a serious incident.
Wrap-Up
Ladder safety starts with inspection. A few minutes at the start of the day can prevent serious injury. Thank you for your attention—let’s continue to keep our worksite safe.
Standards Overview
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) requires that ladders be fit for purpose, well maintained, and inspected before use. Under the Canada Labour Code and provincial health and safety regulations, any ladder showing signs of damage or wear must be removed from service immediately.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
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