Ladder Inspection Checklist: What to Check Before You Climb
OSHA’s ladder rule says a competent person must check ladders for visible defects on a regular basis and after anything that could damage them. A quick look before each climb catches most problems.
Here is a simple checklist your crew can use.
Who does the check
A competent person does the formal check. That is someone who can spot hazards and has the power to fix them. Every worker should still look the ladder over before using it.
The before-you-climb checklist
1. Rails and rungs
- Side rails straight, with no cracks, bends or splits
- Rungs, cleats and steps tight and not bent
- Rungs evenly spaced, not less than 10 inches and not more than 14 inches apart on most ladders
- No oil, grease, mud or paint that could make a foot slip
2. Feet and locks
- Slip-resistant feet in place and not worn smooth
- Stepladder spreaders lock fully open
- Extension ladder locks and rope work
3. Setup
- On stable, level ground, or secured so it cannot move
- Leaning ladders set about 1 foot out for every 4 feet up
- Side rails at least 3 feet above the landing when used to reach a roof or upper level
- Area at the top and bottom kept clear
Want your crew to spot these on their own? Our Portable Ladder Safety for Construction Workers course teaches inspection, setup and safe climbing. It is part of The Dojo, our full course library.
4. Right ladder for the job
- Fiberglass (nonconductive) side rails near exposed energized electrical equipment
- Ladder used only for what it was made for
- Load rating fits the worker plus tools and material
If something fails
Mark the ladder “Do Not Use” or tag it, and take it out of service until it is fixed. A ladder that is fixed must be made right again before it goes back into use. If it cannot be fixed, throw it out so no one picks it up later.
Train the people who climb
Our free ladder safety guide covers the rule. The people who climb need hands-on habits.
Start the Portable Ladder Safety course or train your whole team.
About this checklist
This checklist is a plain-language aid, not a copy of the rule. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA. The regulation text is what counts.
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.1053 Ladders – eCFR, National Archives, checked 2026-10-18
- Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Standards – Occupational Safety and Health Administration, checked 2026-10-18
Frequently asked questions
Who inspects ladders?
A competent person does the formal check, and every worker should look the ladder over before using it.
How often should ladders be inspected?
On a regular basis and after anything that could damage them.
What ladder should be used near electricity?
One with nonconductive side rails, such as fiberglass.
What happens to a ladder that fails inspection?
It is marked Do Not Use or tagged and taken out of service until fixed.