how to do a ladder inspection

To conduct a ladder inspection, consider the following points:

1. Frequency: Inspect ladders before initial use in each work shift and more frequently as necessary [1]. Also, inspect ladders on a periodic basis and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use [2].
2. Competent Person: Inspections should be carried out by a competent person [3].
3. Visible Defects: Look for visible defects such as broken or missing rungs, cleats, or steps, broken or split rails, and corroded components [2].
4. Surface Conditions: Ensure ladder surfaces are free of puncture and laceration hazards [1].
5. Material and Coatings: For wooden ladders, ensure they are not coated with any material that may obscure structural defects [1]. Metal ladders should be made with corrosion-resistant material or protected against corrosion [1].
6. Load and Intended Use: Ensure ladders are used only for their designed purposes and are not loaded beyond their maximum intended load 1, 12, 20.
7. Tagging Defective Ladders: Immediately tag any ladder with structural or other defects as "Dangerous: Do Not Use" (or similar language) and remove it from service until repaired or replaced 1, 2.
8. Withdrawal from Service: Ladders with structural defects should be immediately marked as defective or tagged with 'Do Not Use' and withdrawn from service until repaired [2].
9. Ladder Repairs: Ensure ladder repairs restore the ladder to a condition meeting its original design criteria before being returned to use [2].

By following these steps, you can help ensure that ladders are safe to use and that workers are protected from falls and other hazards.