Before every ladder use, a quick inspection can be the difference between a safe task and a costly incident. Ladder inspection and maintenance are foundational to safe working at height, yet they’re often overlooked. This post explains what an effective inspection looks like and why maintenance matters.
Why Inspection Matters
A ladder’s condition directly affects its performance. Damage that may seem minor — a bent rail, worn feet, loose rung — can quickly escalate once weight is applied.
Daily Pre-Use Inspection Checklist
Here’s a quick ladder inspection you can do before every use:
- Check the feet: Are slip-resistant feet intact?
- Inspect the stiles/rails: Any bends, dents, or cracks?
- Rungs/steps: Are they secure and free from grease?
- Locks and fittings: Do extension ladder locks engage fully?
- Labels: Are safety labels present and readable?
Maintenance Best Practice
If you find issues:
- Tag the ladder ‘Do Not Use’
- Remove it from service
- Arrange repair or disposal
Routine maintenance should also include:
- Cleaning debris off ladder surfaces
- Keeping it stored away from the elements
- Regularly scheduled checks by a competent person
Why Maintenance Reduces Risk
A well-maintained ladder:
- Is less likely to fail unexpectedly
- Offers predictable behaviour when in use
- Encourages confidence among users
Maintenance isn’t just good practice — it’s a safety culture behaviour.
Improve Ladder Awareness
Want to ensure your team conducts inspections confidently? Join one of our free Ladder Safety workshops or grab our checklist in the free Ladder Safety Toolkit.
