Ladder Inspection

Why are there so many ladder-related injuries? By understanding the most common causes of these accidents, you can take steps to prevent them from happening.

• Wrong ladder for the job
• Ladder is damaged and shifts unexpectedly or collapses
• Improper set-up
• Foot slips or they lose their balance when climbing or descending
• Over-reach and lose balance
• Something knocks the ladder over

Understanding and being aware of your environment can help you determine which ladder is right for the job and avoid an accident. Things to consider:

• Style/type
• Material (fiberglass vs. aluminum)
• Improper set-up or placement
• Length
• Duty rating

The majority of ladder injuries occur at home, so it’s important to take the same preventative safety measures before stepping onto your personal ladder.

• Make sure the ladder is not damaged and is secure
• Wear proper footwear
• Do not over reach

Make sure to properly inspect your ladder before any job. Failure to do so could result in serious injury or fatality. Things to look for when inspecting:

• Locks and pulleys
• Proper footwear
• Secure rungs and rails
• Connections and fasteners

Remember: inspect before you step.

What if you deem your ladder unsafe and unusable? Don’t just dispose of it – make sure it’s NEVER used again by cutting it in half. You’re probably visualizing cutting from side to side, in the direction of the rungs, but someone could find those pieces and still think they’re usable. Instead, cut directly down the center of the rungs, from top to bottom. This is the best way to protect others from injury, and yourself from liability.