Ladder 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].