Ladder Safety Inspection Checklist

What is a ladder safety checklist? A ladder safety checklist is an inspection form required by OSHA 1926.1053 before each use to verify portable and fixed ladders are safe for use. Falls from ladders cause approximately 100 deaths and 22,000 injuries annually in construction. This checklist ensures proper ladder selection, inspection, setup, and use per OSHA and ANSI A14 standards.

Industry: Construction / General Industry
Frequency: Before each use / Daily
Estimated Time: 5-10 minutes per ladder
Role: All Workers / Safety Officer / Competent Person
Total Items: 40
Compliance: OSHA 1926.1053 (Ladders in Construction), OSHA 1910.23 (General Industry), ANSI A14.1 (Wood Ladders), ANSI A14.2 (Metal Ladders), ANSI A14.5 (Fiberglass Ladders)

General Ladder Condition

Per OSHA 1926.1053(b)(16), defective ladders must be removed from service immediately.

Manufacturer label legible (duty rating, length, instructions)?
No unauthorized modifications or repairs?
Wood ladders not painted (except ID marks)?
Overall ladder condition acceptable?
Within annual inspection date (if tagged)?

Side Rails Inspection

Inspect side rails for structural integrity - primary load-bearing components.

Side rails straight (no bends or bows)?
No cracks, splits, or corrosion on rails?
No dents or crushing on rails?
Rails free of grease, oil, or slippery substances?
Rail connections tight (no loose rivets/bolts)?
Base/feet of rails intact?

Rungs & Steps Inspection

Inspect all rungs and steps for secure attachment and non-slip surfaces.

All rungs/steps securely attached to rails?
Rungs straight (not bent or twisted)?
No missing rungs or steps?
Rung spacing uniform (10-14 inches)?
Non-slip surface on rungs intact?
Rungs free of mud, grease, or debris?

Extension Ladder Components

Additional checks for extension ladders per OSHA 1926.1053(b).

Rung locks engaging properly?
Rope/halyard in good condition?
Fly section slides freely without binding?
Minimum 3-foot overlap at extended length?
Guides and brackets intact?

Step Ladder Components

Additional checks for step ladders (A-frame) per ANSI A14 standards.

Spreaders fully open and locked?
Spreaders in good condition?
Top cap/platform secure?
Pail shelf secure (if equipped)?
Back rails in good condition?

Feet & Base Condition

Proper feet/shoes prevent slipping - critical safety component.

All feet/shoes present?
Feet in good condition (not worn smooth)?
Swivel feet rotate freely (if equipped)?
Spikes available for soft ground (if needed)?
Feet free of mud, ice, grease?

Setup & Use Verification

Verify proper ladder setup per OSHA requirements before climbing.

Correct ladder type for task?
Ladder length adequate for task?
Extension ladder at 4:1 angle (75 degrees)?
Base on stable, level surface?
Top resting against solid surface (not window, gutter)?
Ladder secured at top (if required)?
Area around ladder clear of obstructions?
No electrical hazards nearby (or fiberglass ladder used)?