Ladders are so common that we often forget how dangerous they can be when something goes wrong. Whether it’s reaching a top shelf, cleaning gutters, or completing construction work, ladders help us access spaces we can’t reach otherwise. But with that access comes risk—and that risk increases significantly when the equipment is neglected. That’s why a ladder must be inspected before every use, no matter how routine the task may seem.
Ladder inspections aren’t about overthinking safety or adding unnecessary steps to your routine. They’re about preventing falls, injuries, and even fatalities that can occur when worn, broken, or unstable ladders are used. The truth is, ladder-related accidents are almost always preventable—and the first line of defense is a thorough inspection.
The Reality of Ladder-Related Accidents
Every year, hundreds of thousands of people are injured in ladder-related incidents. Many of these accidents happen at home, and a large portion occur on job sites where ladders are part of daily operations. Often, the cause is simple: the ladder failed because it hadn’t been checked properly.
Cracks, loose rungs, missing foot grips, or bent side rails can all seem like minor issues until someone’s relying on that ladder to hold their weight several feet off the ground. By the time a failure happens, it’s too late. This is why a ladder must be inspected routinely—it’s the easiest and most effective way to identify problems before they become dangerous.
What Does a Proper Ladder Inspection Involve?
A ladder inspection doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be consistent and thorough. Here’s what should be checked before each use:
- Rungs and Steps: Look for cracks, bends, or signs of wear. Make sure they’re securely attached and not slippery from grease, mud, or moisture.
- Side Rails: Inspect for dents, warping, or damage. Rails provide structural support, and any compromise here can lead to collapse.
- Locks and Hinges: Ensure locking mechanisms are fully functional and free of rust or obstruction.
- Feet and Base: The bottom of the ladder should have slip-resistant feet that are intact and even. Worn or missing feet can make the ladder shift unexpectedly.
- Labels and Load Capacity: Confirm that safety labels are readable and that the ladder’s weight rating suits the task.
- If you find any damage, the ladder should be taken out of use immediately—tagged, reported, and either repaired professionally or replaced.
When and Where Ladder Inspections Matter Most
While it’s true that a ladder must be inspected before any use, there are specific environments and scenarios where inspections are even more critical.
1. Construction Sites
Ladders on construction sites take daily abuse—dust, impact, weather exposure, and frequent transport can cause rapid wear. OSHA and other safety organizations require documented inspections on such sites for good reason.
2. Maintenance Work
In facilities where maintenance crews use ladders to reach pipes, wiring, or lighting, ladders are often moved from one place to another quickly. In fast-paced environments, taking the time to inspect the ladder might feel inconvenient—but skipping it can lead to serious injuries and downtime.
3. At Home
It might seem excessive to inspect a ladder just to hang decorations or paint a wall, but home injuries account for a large percentage of ladder-related ER visits. Ladders stored in garages or sheds can deteriorate from moisture or rust without you noticing until it’s too late.
4. After Transportation or Storage
Even if you just used the ladder last week and it was fine, if it’s been moved or stored since then, it needs to be checked again. Damage can occur in transit or while being stacked against other items.
The Bigger Picture: Creating a Culture of Safety
Safety isn’t about paranoia—it’s about prevention. And developing a habit of inspecting ladders before use can instill a broader mindset of caution and care. Especially in workplaces, this habit promotes accountability and helps build a culture where safety becomes second nature.
When people see that a ladder must be inspected before use, it sends a clear message: safety is a priority. This often encourages others to be more careful, not just with ladders but with all equipment and processes.
Common Misconceptions About Ladder Inspections
- “It looks fine.”
Visual checks are important, but not everything is visible at a glance. Hinges or bolts can loosen without obvious signs. - “I just used it last week.”
Even if nothing has changed visibly, temperature shifts, vibrations, or impacts can weaken a ladder quickly. - “I’ve been doing this for years—I don’t need to inspect.”
Experience doesn’t prevent accidents. In fact, seasoned professionals sometimes skip steps because of overconfidence.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to assume that a ladder is ready to use—especially when it’s a tool you’ve relied on for years. But the stakes are too high to leave safety to chance. No task, big or small, is worth risking injury over equipment failure that could have been spotted in a simple pre-use check.
That’s why a ladder must be inspected every time. Not just for compliance or peace of mind—but because your safety, or the safety of someone you care about, depends on it. Before the next climb, take a few moments to look, listen, and make sure the ladder is truly ready to support you. It’s a small step that protects every other one you’ll take.
