Portable Ladder Safety Inspections

Ladder Safety
English (US)

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. OSHA requires us to inspect ladders before each shift 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

Using a damaged or unsafe ladder can result in:

  1. Falls: Structural defects, missing components, or slippery surfaces can cause a user to fall.

  2. Ladder Failure: Bent rails, cracked steps, or loose fasteners may cause the ladder to collapse.

  3. Improper Repairs: Makeshift repairs or modifications can weaken the ladder’s integrity.
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  4. Impact Damage: Dropping or improper storage can compromise the ladder without visible signs.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

To ensure portable ladders are safe for use, always follow these steps:

1. When to Inspect Ladders:

  • Before Each Shift: Inspect ladders at the start of every work shift.
  • After Damage: Inspect ladders immediately after they’ve been dropped, knocked over, or struck by equipment.

2. What to Look For During Inspections:

  • Structural Damage:
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    • Check side rails for splits, bends, dents, or cracks.
    • Inspect rungs, braces, and cleats for cracks or splinters.
  • Hardware and Components:
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    • Ensure fasteners (screws, rivets) are tight and secure.
    • Verify spreaders, hinges, and locks are undamaged and functional.
  • Surface Issues:
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    • Look for corrosion, heat damage (blisters), or slippery substances like oil and grease.
  • Feet and Accessories:
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    • Confirm non-skid feet are intact.
    • Check pull ropes, pulleys, and casters for wear or damage.
  • Unauthorized Repairs:
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    • Look for makeshift repairs or modifications that compromise ladder safety.

3. Handling Damaged Ladders:

  • Tag and Remove: Immediately tag damaged ladders with “Danger: Do Not Use” and remove them from service.

  • Repair or Replace:
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    • Repairs must be completed by a qualified person to restore the ladder to its original condition.
    • If repairs are not possible, the ladder must be destroyed and replaced.

4. Preventing Ladder Damage:

  • Proper Storage: Store ladders in a secure, designated area to prevent falls or impacts.‍
  • Careful Transport: Handle ladders carefully during transport to avoid dents, cracks, or damage.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

Recently, on a job site, a ladder with a cracked side rail was used because the defect wasn’t spotted during an inspection. The ladder collapsed under load, and the worker fell 6 feet, suffering a broken ankle. This could have been prevented with a thorough inspection and proper tagging of damaged equipment.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Inspect ladders thoroughly before every use.
  • Tag and remove damaged ladders immediately.
  • Never use ladders with structural damage, missing parts, or makeshift repairs.
  • Store ladders properly to avoid damage.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Provide safe, well-maintained ladders for workers.
  • Train employees on ladder inspection and safe handling practices.
  • Ensure damaged ladders are repaired by qualified personnel or replaced.

Discussion & Questions

  • Questions:
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    • "Have you ever encountered a damaged ladder on the job? What steps were taken to address it?"
    • "What are some common ladder issues you’ve noticed during inspections?"
  • Discussion: Allow employees to share their experiences and tips for inspecting and handling ladders safely.

Commitment/Action Plan

Let’s commit to inspecting every ladder before use and ensuring damaged ladders are immediately removed and reported. Together, we can prevent ladder-related incidents and keep our job site safe.

Wrap-Up

Ladder safety starts with proper inspections and handling. A few extra minutes of care can prevent injuries and save lives. Thank you for making ladder safety a priority every day.

Standards Overview

  • OSHA Standard 1926.1053 requires ladders to be inspected before use and removed from service if damaged.
  • These inspections are critical to identifying and addressing structural issues that can lead to accidents.

Disclaimer

“The information provided in this toolbox talk is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The information presented is based on best practices and general industry standards but may not apply to all workplace situations.
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It is the responsibility of the employer, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited those of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 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.
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Participants are encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals to address specific concerns or questions. Always follow your organization's policies and procedures for workplace safety and hazard mitigation.”

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Last Updated:
January 13, 2025