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. WorkSafe New Zealand requires ladders to be inspected before use each day 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
1. 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.
2. 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.
- Check side rails for cracks, splits, dents, or bends.
- Hardware and Components:
- Ensure rivets, bolts, and fasteners are tight.
- Verify that spreaders, locks, and hinges are functioning properly.
- Ensure rivets, bolts, and fasteners are tight.
- 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
- Check for intact non-slip feet.
- Unauthorised 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.
3. 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.
- Only competent persons may perform repairs that return the ladder to its original manufacturer’s standard.
4. 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, and the worker fell, sustaining 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 unauthorised repairs.
- Store and transport ladders properly to avoid damage.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide safe, well-maintained ladders.
- Train workers in ladder inspection and care.
- Remove damaged ladders from service and arrange prompt repair or replacement by a competent person.
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
WorkSafe NZ requires that ladders are fit for purpose, well maintained, and inspected before use.
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and WorkSafe guidance, any ladder showing signs of damage or wear must be removed from service immediately.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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