Ladder
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Published by SALUSLadder Safety Checklist =======================
Date: 2025-07-31
Inspector: \[INSPECTOR NAME]
Location/Area: \[LOCATION/AREA]
Department: \[DEPARTMENT]
Purpose
This checklist is to be used to ensure the safe use of ladders in the workplace. It covers inspection guidelines, fall protection measures, and proper climbing techniques to prevent injuries.
Instructions for Use
- Inspect the ladder for defects before each use.
- Set up the ladder on a stable, level surface.
- Ensure the ladder is at the correct angle (1/4 rule for non-self-supporting ladders).
- Always face the ladder and maintain 3 points of contact while climbing.
- Do not carry heavy or awkward items while climbing.
- Do not overreach.
Frequency
This checklist should be completed: Before each use
Safety Checklist
Pre-Use Inspection
Inspect the ladder before each use for any visible defects.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check rungs, cleats, or steps for being broken, worn, or missing. [2] Check: Rungs, cleats, or steps are intact, not worn, and not missing. If failed: Remove the ladder from service and tag it as 'DANGEROUS - DO NOT USE'. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect side rails for breaks or splits. [2] Check: Side rails are free from breaks or splits. If failed: Remove the ladder from service and tag it as 'DANGEROUS - DO NOT USE'. | _________________ | ||
| Check for broken or bent guides or iron spreaders. [2] Check: Guides and spreaders are intact and not bent. If failed: Remove the ladder from service and tag it as 'DANGEROUS - DO NOT USE'. | _________________ | ||
| Examine for broken or bent locks (if applicable). [2] Check: Locks are functional and not broken or bent. If failed: Remove the ladder from service and tag it as 'DANGEROUS - DO NOT USE'. | _________________ | ||
| For metal ladders, check for corrosion. [4] Check: Metal components are free from significant corrosion. If failed: Remove the ladder from service if corrosion compromises structural integrity. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure ladder surfaces are free of puncture and laceration hazards. [4] Check: Ladder surfaces are smooth and without sharp edges or projections. If failed: Remove ladder from service and repair or replace. | _________________ |
Ladder Placement and Setup
Verify proper ladder placement and setup before use.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ensure the ladder is placed on a stable and level surface. [2] Check: The ladder's base is firmly supported and level. If failed: Adjust the base or use a different location to ensure stability. | _________________ | ||
| If the ladder is placed in a high-traffic area, ensure it is secured or barricaded. [2] Check: The ladder is secured to prevent displacement, or a barricade is in place. If failed: Secure the ladder or set up a barricade to divert traffic. | _________________ | ||
| For non-self-supporting ladders, ensure the horizontal distance from the top support to the base is approximately one-quarter of the working length of the ladder. [5] Check: The ladder is set at the correct angle (approximately 75 degrees). If failed: Adjust the ladder's angle to meet the 1/4 ratio requirement. | _________________ | ||
| If using a portable ladder to access an upper landing surface, ensure the side rails extend at least 3 feet above the landing surface. [4] Check: Ladder side rails extend at least 3 feet above the landing. If failed: Use a taller ladder or secure the existing ladder to provide adequate extension. | _________________ | ||
| Check that ladder rungs, steps, and cleats are parallel, level, and uniformly spaced. [3] [4] Check: Rungs, steps, and cleats are properly aligned and spaced. If failed: Do not use the ladder if rungs, steps or cleats are not properly aligned and spaced. | _________________ |
Fall Protection
Verify proper fall protection measures are in place.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ensure employees are trained on fall hazards and proper use of fall protection systems. [3] Check: Training records are available and employees demonstrate understanding of fall protection. If failed: Provide additional training or refresher courses as needed. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect fall protection equipment (harnesses, lanyards) before use for any damage or defects. [1] Check: Equipment is free from tears, cuts, abrasions, or other damage. If failed: Remove damaged equipment from service and replace it immediately. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that ladder safety systems are tested for proper operation prior to climbing. [1] Check: Ladder safety system functions correctly when tested. If failed: Do not use the ladder until the safety system is functioning properly. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that ladder safety systems and related support systems for fixed ladders are inspected for proper operation and that all components utilized with the ladder safety system are compatible. [1] Check: Ladder safety system and components are compatible and function properly. If failed: Do not use the ladder until the safety system is functioning properly and components are compatible. | _________________ |
Safe Climbing Practices
Observe and correct unsafe climbing practices.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ensure employees always face the ladder when climbing up or down. [2] [4] Check: Employees maintain a face-forward position while climbing. If failed: Instruct employees to face the ladder at all times. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure employees maintain at least one handhold while climbing. [4] [2] Check: Employees use at least one hand to grasp the ladder while climbing. If failed: Instruct employees to maintain a firm handhold at all times. | _________________ | ||
| Prohibit carrying objects or loads that could cause a loss of balance. [2] [4] Check: Employees do not carry heavy or awkward items while climbing. If failed: Use alternative methods to transport materials (e.g., hoist, rope). | _________________ | ||
| Prevent overreaching while on the ladder. [2] Check: Employees keep their shoulders between the side rails. If failed: Reposition the ladder closer to the work or use a different tool. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that ladders are not moved, shifted, or extended while occupied by an employee. [2] [4] Check: Ladders are stable and stationary while in use. If failed: Direct employees to descend before any adjustments are made to the ladder's position. | _________________ |
General Requirements
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ladders must be used only for their designed purpose. [4] [5] Check: Ladder use aligns with manufacturer's specifications and safety guidelines. If failed: Cease improper use and provide training on correct application. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that ladders are not loaded beyond their maximum intended load. [4] [5] Check: The total weight on the ladder (employee \+ tools \+ materials) does not exceed the limit. If failed: Reduce the load or use a ladder with a higher load capacity. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that employees are trained to recognize hazards related to ladders. [3] Check: Employees demonstrate understanding of ladder safety. If failed: Provide ladder safety training to all employees who use ladders. | _________________ |
Failed Item Procedures
- If a ladder fails inspection, immediately tag it as 'Dangerous: Do Not Use' and remove it from service until it is repaired or replaced.
- If fall protection equipment fails inspection, remove it from service immediately and replace it.
Documentation Requirements
Maintain records of ladder inspections and employee training.
Checklist Completion
Overall Status: ☐ Pass ☐ Fail ☐ Corrective Actions Required
Inspector Signature: Date:
Supervisor Review: Date:
Corrective Actions Completed By: Date:
References and Standards
- Refer to ANSI A14\.1 (Wood Ladders), A14\.2 (Metal Ladders), or A14\.5 (Plastic Ladders) for specific ladder requirements.
- Refer to OSHA 29 CFR 1926\.1053 for ladder safety requirements in construction.
- Refer to OSHA 29 CFR 1910\.23 for ladder safety requirements in general industry.
This checklist must be retained for \[RETENTION PERIOD].
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Sources used for this answer
[1] OSHA Construction Industry Standards Requiring Programs, Inspections, Procedures Records and/or Training (NCDOL)
Page 34
Open source documentSource excerpt
# 13 NCAC Chapter 7-Office of Occupational Safety and Health Subchapter 07F-Standards (cont.) ## Programs, Plans and Procedures (cont.) (3) A competent person shall ensure that all fall protection equipment is inspected prior to each use for wear, damage, defect or other deterioration by employees who have been trained in accordance with 13 NCAC 07F.0609 [Training]. Defective equipment shall be identified as defective and immediately removed from service. 07F .0605-Fall Protection-(g) Ladder Safety Systems. The employer shall ensure that, in addition to the applica-le criteria in 29 CFR 1926, Subpart X, ladder safety systems and related support systems for fixed ladders that are utilized by employees as a means of 100% fall protection conform to the following criteria: (1) Prior to climbing the structure, the employer shall ensure that the employee(s) have tested the ladder safety system for proper operation and that all components utilized with the ladder safety system are compatible. 07F .0607-Hoists and Gin Poles-(b) Gin Poles. Inspections. (A) Gin poles shall have a documented inspection annually by a qualified person; (B) In addition to the annual inspection, the employer shall designate a competent person who shall visually inspect the gin pole and rigging prior to each use, and during use, to make sure it is in safe operating condition. Any deficiencies shall be repaired before use continues; (C) During each inspection, the qualified or competent person shall inspect the legs and bracing members for bends or distortion; (D) During each inspection, the qualified or competent person shall inspect the straightness tolerances for the overall assembly (including leg and bracing members); (E) During each inspection, the qualified or competent person shall visually inspect the welds for quality, deformation, cracks, rust, or pitting or loss of cross sectional area; (F) During each inspection, the qualified or competent person shall inspect the members f…
[2] Construction Safety and Health Standards (MIOSHA)
Page 5
Open source documentSource excerpt
# CONSTRUCTION STANDARD (cont.) ## R 408.[redacted postal code] General requirements. (cont.) (12) The rungs and steps of fixed metal ladders that are manufactured after January 14, 1991, shall be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material, or otherwise treated to minimize slipping. (13) The rungs of steps of portable metal ladders shall be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid- resistant material, or otherwise treated to minimize slipping. (14) Except when portable ladders are used to gain access to fixed ladders, such as ladders on utility towers, billboards, and other structures where the bottom of the fixed ladder is elevated to limit access, when 2 or more separate ladders are used to reach an elevated work area, the ladder shall be offset with a platform or landing between the ladders. (15) Ladder components shall be surfaced in a manner that prevents employee injury due to punctures or lacerations and prevents the snagging of clothing. ## R 408.[redacted postal code] Inspection; faults and defects. Rule 1121. (1) A ladder, as prescribed in this part, shall be used to provide safe access to all elevations, unless other means, such as steps, stairs, ramps, runways, or elevators, are provided. (2) A ladder shall be inspected before use and after it has fallen or been involved in an accident to determine its condition. (3) A ladder that has any of the following faults and defects shall be immediately tagged "DANGEROUS - DO NOT USE" and shall be withdrawn from service: (a) Broken, worn, or missing rungs, cleats, or steps. (b) Broken or split side rails. (c) Broken or bent guides or iron spreaders. (d) Broken or bent locks. - The tag shall be as prescribed in Construction Safety Standard Part 22 "Signals, Signs, Tags, and Barricades," as referenced in R 408.41102a. (4) Fixed ladders that have structural defects, such as broken or split rails or corroded components, shall be withdrawn from service until repaired. The…
[3] Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (OSHA 29 CFR 1926) - 1926.1053 - Ladders
Page 9
Open source documentSource excerpt
# Occupational Safety and Health Administration (cont.) ## 1926.1053(b)(1) (cont.) Ladders shall not be loaded beyond the maximum intended load for which they were built, nor beyond their manufacturer's rated capacity. 1926.1053(b)(4). Ladders shall be used only for the purpose for which they were designed. 1926.1053(b)(5) 1926.1053(b)(5).(i). Non-self-supporting ladders shall be used at an angle such that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is approximately one-quarter of the working length of the ladder (the distance along the ladder between the foot and the top support). ## 1926.1053(b)(5)(ii) Wood job-made ladders with spliced side rails shall be used at an angle such that the horizontal distance is one-eighth the working length of the ladder. ## 1926.1053(b)(5)(iii). Fixed ladders shall be used at a pitch no greater than 90 degrees from the horizontal, as measured to the back side of the ladder. ## 1926.1053(b)(6). Ladders shall be used only on stable and level surfaces unless secured to prevent accidental displacement. ## 1926.1053(b)(7). Ladders shall not be used on slippery surfaces unless secured or provided with slip-resistant feet to prevent accidental displacement. Slip-resistant feet shall not be used as a substitute for care in placing, lashing, or holding a ladder that is used upon slippery surfaces including, but not limited to, flat metal or concrete surfaces that are constructed so they cannot be prevented from becoming slippery. ## 1926.1053(b)(8). Ladders placed in any location where they can be displaced by workplace activities or traffic, such as in passageways, doorways, or driveways, shall be secured to prevent accidental displacement, or a barricade shall be used to keep the activities or traffic away from the ladder. ## 1926.1053(b)(9) The area around the top and bottom of ladders shall be kept clear. Submit Feedback
[4] General Industry Safety and Health Standards (MIOSHA)
Page 9
Open source documentSource excerpt
# 1910.23 LADDERS (a) Application. The employer must ensure that each ladder used meets the requirements of this section. This section covers all ladders, except when the ladder is: (1) Used in emergency operations such as firefighting, rescue, and tactical law enforcement operations, or training for these operations; or (2) Designed into or is an integral part of machines or equipment. (b) General requirements for all ladders. The employer must ensure: (1) Ladder rungs, steps, and cleats are parallel, level, and uniformly spaced when the ladder is in position for use; (2) Ladder rungs, steps, and cleats are spaced not less than 10 inches (25 cm) and not more than 14 inches cm) apart, as measured between the centerlines of the rungs, cleats, and steps, except that: (i) Ladder rungs and steps in elevator shafts must be spaced not less than 6 inches (15 cm) apart and not more than 16.5 inches (42 cm) apart, as measured along the ladder side rails; and (ii) Fixed ladder rungs and steps on telecommunication towers must be spaced not more than 18 inches cm) apart, measured between the centerlines of the rungs or steps; (3) Steps on stepstools are spaced not less than 8 inches (20 cm) apart and not more than 12 inches apart, as measured between the centerlines of the steps; (4) Ladder rungs, steps, and cleats have a minimum clear width of 11.5 inches (29 cm) on portable ladders and 16 inches 1 cm) (measured before installation of ladder safety systems) for fixed ladders, except that: (i) The minimum clear width does not apply to ladders with narrow rungs that are not designed to be stepped on, such as those located on the tapered end of orchard ladders and similar ladders; (ii) Rungs and steps of manhole entry ladders that are supported by the manhole opening must have a minimum clear width of 9 inches (23 cm); (iii) Rungs and steps on rolling ladders used in telecommunication centers must have a minimum clear width of 8 inches cm); and (iv) Stepstools have …
[5] Construction Safety and Health Standards (MIOSHA)
Page 3
Open source documentSource excerpt
# CONSTRUCTION STANDARD (cont.) ## R 408.[redacted postal code] Definitions; S to W. - Rule 1105. (1) "Safety feet" means a safety device that is placed on the foot of the side rails of straight, sectional, or extension ladders to reduce the likelihood that the base will slip. Safety feet may be flat pads that are covered with a nonslip material, pointed metal projections, or spur wheels. (2) "Side-step ladder" means a ladder that requires an employee who is getting off at the top of the ladder to step sideways from the ladder to reach the landing. (3) "Single-cleat ladder" means a ladder that consists of a pair of parallel side rails that are connected with cleats which are joined to the side rails at regular intervals. (4) "Single-rail ladder" means a portable ladder that has rungs, cleats, or steps which are mounted on single rail instead of the normal 2 rails that are used on most other ladders. a (5) "Special-purpose ladder" means a portable ladder that represents either a modification or a combination of design or construction features in 1 or more of the general purpose types of ladders, as defined in R 408.[redacted postal code](5) and (6), R 408.[redacted postal code](5) and (6), and subrules (4) and (6) of this rule, in order to adapt the ladder to special or specific uses. (6) "Stepladder" means a self-supporting portable ladder that is nonadjustable in length and that has flat steps and a hinged back. A stepladder's size is measured along the front edge of the side rails. (7) "Steps" means the flat crosspieces of a ladder on which a person may step to ascend or descend. (8) "Through ladder" means a ladder that requires an employee who is getting off at the top of the ladder to step through the ladder to reach the landing. (9) "Trestle ladder" means a self-supporting portable ladder which is nonadjustable in length and which consists of 2 sections that are hinged at the top to form equal angles with the base. The size of the ladder is designate…
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