Do step ladders need to be inspected?

Employers need to make sure that any ladder or stepladder is both suitable for the work task and in a safe condition before use. They should have a pre-use check each working day; have an up-to-date record of the detailed visual inspections carried out regularly by a competent person.

How often should step ladders be inspected?

every 3 to 6 months
Ladder Inspections are a vital part of using ladders safety. They should be checked before every use and regularly be a competent person every 3 to 6 months.

How often should ladders be inspected HSE?

Detailed inspection – a formally recorded inspection should be undertaken at least every 6 months.

When should ladders be inspected?

Inspect ladders before each use. Check the condition of ladders that have been dropped or have fallen before using them again. Inspect ladders before storing to make sure they are in good condition to store, or need repair, replacement or removal from the site.

Do you need to be qualified to inspect ladders?

Ladder inspections should only be conducted by a competent person trained in ladder safety. A competent person is someone who has the necessary technical expertise, training and experience in ladder work.

Are ladder inspections required by OSHA?

OSHA requires that employers ensure ladders are inspected on a periodic basis. OSHA General Industry Standard 1910.23(b)(9) Ladders are inspected before initial use in each work shift, and more frequently as necessary, to identify any visible defects that could cause employee injury.

What are the rules for ladders?

Always face the ladder and use both hands to climb and descent. Keep three limbs on the ladder at all times. Carry tools in a tool belt or raise and lower them with a hand line. Always hold on with one hand and never reach too far to either side or to the rear.

What should be inspected on a ladder?

What should you look for when inspecting any ladder?

• Missing or loose steps or rungs (they are loose if you can move them by hand)
• Damaged or worn non-slip feet.
• Loose nails, screws, bolts or nuts.
• Loose or faulty spreaders, locks and other metal parts in poor repair.
• Rot, decay or warped rails in wooden ladders.

What do you do if a ladder fails an inspection?

Tag and take out of service any ladder that is has defects, or is broken or bent. Destroy ladders that cannot be repaired safely by a person authorized by the manufacturer. Ladders should be destroyed in a way that makes them useless.

Who is competent to inspect ladders?

A competent persons is someone who has the necessary technical expertise, training and experience to carry out the task. In respect of inspecting ladders you require a person of common sense who is aware of how ladders should be secured (tied, footed) correct way up, correct angle 1 in 4 and up the right way.

Where should you not step on a step ladder?

Do not stand, climb, or sit on the stepladder top or pail shelf. Do not stand on or above the top two rungs or steps of the stepladder. Do not overload. Stepladders are meant for one person.

How do I complete the general ladder safety inspection?

This checklist includes (1) pre-use ladder inspection, (2) ladder setup safety, and (3) climbing safety for various types of ladders. Complete this inspection on the Safesite app for free ( iOS, Android, Desktop ). Download the General Ladder Safety Inspection as a PDF. Access this inspection template as a document or spreadsheet.

What ladder safety checklist should I use?

Applicable to any industry, any employee who uses or works around ladders should be familiar with these principles. This checklist includes (1) pre-use ladder inspection, (2) ladder setup safety, and (3) climbing safety for various types of ladders. Complete this inspection on the Safesite app for free ( iOS, Android, Desktop ).

How do safety accessories complement ladder inspections?

While ladder inspections will protect against equipment failure, safety accessories can complement these efforts and provide additional safety measures by making ladders more stable and secure.

Why are ladder inspections so important?

Ladder inspections are just as important as general ladder use training. Both roofers and contracting business owners should know how to properly inspect all climbing equipment prior to each use. The correct positioning of fall protection equipment and the connecting device is crucial.