Ladders are among the most commonly used tools in construction, maintenance, warehousing, and facility operations. Yet they are also one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. Every year, thousands of workers suffer falls, fractures, and serious injuries due to faulty ladders or improper use. To reduce these incidents, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has mandated strict ladder inspection requirements that employers must follow.
An OSHA ladder inspection isn’t just a safety formality—it’s a legal requirement designed to ensure every ladder on-site is safe, stable, and fit for use. Whether your team uses step ladders, extension ladders, or fixed ladders, knowing how to inspect them correctly can prevent costly accidents, fines, and downtime.
Why OSHA Ladder Inspection Matters
Ladder-related accidents usually happen for one of three reasons: structural defects, improper setup, or misuse. A regular OSHA-compliant inspection tackles the first cause by identifying cracks, corrosion, loose rungs, broken safety feet, or any instability before a worker steps up.
Failing to inspect ladders properly exposes organizations to:
- Workplace injuries and workers’ compensation claims
- OSHA citations and penalties
- Equipment failure during critical operations
- Reduced worker confidence and productivity
A thorough inspection program protects both people and businesses.
OSHA Requirements for Ladder Inspections
OSHA’s ladder inspection rules are mainly covered under 29 CFR 1910.23 (General Industry) and 29 CFR 1926.1053 (Construction). According to these standards, employers must:
1. Inspect Ladders Before Initial Use Each Work Shift
This means every ladder—portable or fixed—must be checked at the beginning of each shift. Workers should not assume a ladder that was safe yesterday is safe today.
2. Remove Damaged Ladders From Service Immediately
Any ladder with structural defects must be tagged “Do Not Use” or removed from the job site entirely. Continued use of damaged ladders is a direct OSHA violation.
3. Inspect After Any Incident
If a ladder tips over, is exposed to harsh weather, or sustains impact, it must undergo an additional inspection before being used again.
4. Maintain Ladders in Safe Condition
A ladder is only compliant when all rungs, rails, locks, feet, and pulleys are in proper working condition.
These requirements apply to all ladder types, including wooden, metal, fiberglass, portable, and fixed ladders.
What to Check During an OSHA Ladder Inspection
A proper OSHA ladder inspection covers structural integrity, stability, cleanliness, and usability. Here are the key elements to evaluate:
1. Ladder Rails
- Look for cracks, splits, dents, bends, warping, or corrosion.
- Ensure rails are not loose or weakened.
- Rails must be free from sharp edges that could cause injury.
2. Rungs and Steps
- Check for loose, cracked, or missing rungs.
- Ensure rungs are evenly spaced and free from grease, oil, or debris.
- Steps should be slip-resistant and sturdy.
3. Ladder Feet and Base
- Anti-slip feet should be intact and not worn down.
- Check for secure footing when placed on the ground.
- Damaged or missing feet must be replaced before use.
4. Spreaders and Braces (for Step Ladders)
- Confirm spreaders lock securely.
- Look for bent braces or missing components.
- Spreaders must prevent wobbling or collapse.
5. Extension Ladder Components
- Rope and pulley systems should operate smoothly.
- Locking mechanisms must hold the upper section firmly in place.
- Rails must slide without friction or damage.
6. Hardware and Fittings
- Inspect rivets, screws, and joints for looseness.
- Ensure all hardware is secure and rust-free.
7. Surface Condition
- Ladders must be free from slippery materials like mud, grease, or paint.
- Avoid ladders coated with opaque substances that hide defects.
8. Labels and Load Ratings
- OSHA requires markings for ladder type, duty rating, and manufacturer instructions.
- Check that all labels are visible and legible.
How Often Should OSHA Ladder Inspections Be Done?
OSHA requires daily pre-use inspections, but many organizations adopt a more structured inspection schedule:
- Before each shift (mandatory)
- Weekly documented inspections
- Post-incident inspections
- Quarterly audits by safety officers
Keeping logs or using digital inspection apps helps verify compliance during OSHA audits.
What To Do When a Ladder Fails an Inspection
If any part of the ladder is unsafe:
- Tag it with “Do Not Use.”
- Remove it from the work area immediately.
- Repair it only using manufacturer-approved parts—never improvise repairs.
- If it cannot be restored safely, dispose of it and replace it.
Employees should never attempt to fix broken ladders using tape, wire, rope, or welding, as this violates OSHA standards and puts workers at risk.
Best Practices for OSHA-Compliant Ladder Safety Programs
To strengthen workplace safety and reduce ladder-related risks:
- Train workers on proper ladder use and inspection procedures.
- Use the correct ladder size and type for each task.
- Never exceed the ladder’s weight capacity.
- Keep ladders clean and dry.
- Store ladders properly to prevent damage.
- Encourage a safety-first culture where workers report defects immediately.
A documented ladder inspection program not only ensures OSHA compliance but also builds a safe and efficient working environment.
Final Thoughts
OSHA ladder inspection requirements exist for a simple reason: ladders fail when no one is checking them. A systematic inspection routine protects workers, prevents accidents, and keeps organizations compliant with federal safety standards. When performed correctly, ladder inspections are one of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain a hazard-free workplace.
