The importance of (step)ladder inspections
- KSH Safety Services
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
To adhere to UK safety regulations, inspections of ladders and stepladders must be performed in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). Here is how to conduct these inspections.
1. Types of Inspections
- Pre-use Checks – Brief visual checks by the user before each use.
- Detailed Inspections – Formal inspections by a competent person at regular intervals (typically every 3–6 months, depending on usage).
2. What to Check During Inspections For All Ladders & Stepladders:
- Stability & Feet – Check for damage, wear, or missing anti-slip pads.
- Rungs/Steps – Ensure they are secure, undamaged, and free from oil/grease.
- Stiles (Side Rails) – Look for cracks, bends, or corrosion.
- Locking Mechanisms – Ensure they engage correctly (for stepladders).
- General Condition – No loose screws, bolts, or fittings.
Additional Checks for Extension Ladders:
- Rope/Pulley System – Ensure smooth operation and no fraying.
- Extension Locks – Check they engage securely.
3. Who Can Carry Out Inspections?
- Pre-use checks: Any user (after basic training).
- Formal inspections: A competent person (someone with sufficient knowledge, training, and experience).
4. Record Keeping
- Formal inspections must be recorded (not legally required for pre-use checks but good practice).
- Records should include:
- Date of inspection
- Name of inspector
- Equipment details (model, serial number)
- Faults found & actions taken
- Next inspection date
5. What to Do If a Ladder Fails Inspection
- Tag as "Do Not Use" and remove from service.
- Repair (ipossible by a qualified person) or replace.
6. Legal Requirements
- PUWER 1998: Requires equipment to be safe for use, maintained, and inspected.
- WAHR 2005: Ensures work at height is properly planned, supervised, and carried out safely.
7. Best Practices
- Follow manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Train staff on safe ladder use (e.g., Ladder Association training).
- Use a checklist for consistency.
What to include in a formal Ladder & Stepladder Inspection
The following should be in a checklist:
Equipment Details:
- Type: Ladder, Stepladder, Extension Ladder
- Manufacturer
- Model/Serial No.
- Location/User
- Inspection Date
- Inspector Name
Pre-Use/Formal Inspection Items
Stiles (Side Rails) – No cracks, bends, or corrosion
Rungs/Steps – Secure, undamaged, clean, non-slip
Feet – Anti-slip pads intact, not worn/missing
Locking Mechanisms (stepladders) – Engages correctly
Spreaders/Braces – Not bent or damaged
Rope/Pulley (extension ladders) – No fraying
General Condition – No loose/missing screws/bolts
Labels/Safety Marks – Legible, not faded
Previous Damage Repairs – Properly fixed
Inspection Outcome:
- Passed – Safe to use
- Failed – Tagged & removed from service (state reason)
- Actions Taken: Repaired / Replaced / Discarded
Next Inspection Due (Recommended: every 3 months)
Inspector’s Signature
Additional Tips:
1. For Formal Inspections: Keep records for at least 3 years (best practice).
2. For Failed Ladders: Attach a "DO NOT USE – DEFECTIVE" tag and remove from service.
3. Training: Ensure inspectors/users are trained (e.g., via the Ladder Association or other competent body).
The following may be of use:
