Checklist: inspecting and setting up a ladder

Print this list and keep it in the van or near the ladders. Run through the first two blocks before every use; it takes half a minute and catches most accidents.

Before every use: the ladder itself

No dents, cracks or bent parts in the rails and rungs.
Rungs are tight, clean and free of grease.
All rivets, bolts and joints are tight.
The ladder feet are still there, undamaged and not worn smooth.
Ropes, hinges and locks work and are not frayed or worn.
Extending sections run smoothly and lock audibly.
Labels and instructions are still legible.
No home-made repairs, such as welded or taped parts.

Setting up

The ground is level, firm and not slippery.
The ladder stands at about 75 degrees: one out for every four up.
When stepping off, the ladder extends about one metre above the landing point.
The ladder is secured: tied, clamped or held by a second person.
Not in front of a door that can open, unless it is locked or cordoned off.
Mind wind, rain and ice; do not work on a ladder in strong wind.
Your soles are clean and dry.
The area under the ladder is clear and cordoned off for others.

During the work

Always three points of contact: two feet and a hand, or two hands and a foot.
Climb and work facing the ladder.
Do not reach further than arm’s length; move the ladder instead.
Do not stand on the top rungs, and never on the top of a single ladder.
One person on the ladder at a time.
Tools on a belt or in a bag, so your hands are free.
Short jobs with light tools: if it takes longer, use a tower scaffold or a lift.

Periodic inspection

A ladder used at work should be inspected periodically.
How often depends on how heavily and how frequently you use it.
Record the inspection: a sticker on the ladder and the report in your files.
Note repairs and replaced parts with the ladder.
Have the inspection done by someone competent to do it.

Take out of service immediately

If you are in doubt, there is no doubt. Take the ladder out of service if you find:

a crack or kink in a rail or rung
a rung that moves, turns or is missing
missing or broken ladder feet
a lock that no longer catches
a fall or an impact the ladder has taken

Securing the ladder at the top

Securing is where ladders go wrong. The LockJaw Ladder Grip clamps the ladder to the gutter, so it cannot slide sideways.

View the LockJaw Ladder Grip

What this is based on

This list is general information, not an inspection report or safety advice for your situation. Always follow your ladder’s instructions and your employer’s rules.

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