Do ladders need to be inspected?

Yes. According to 1910.23(b)(9), portable ladders must be inspected before initial use on each work shift, and more frequently as necessary, to identify any visible defects that could cause employee injury. OSHA says that inspections conducted at the start of a work shift may include checking the work area to ensure it is safe to work in (e.g., footing is firm and stable) and that the ladder functions as necessary (e.g., the spreader or locking devices work).

This inspection should also include a careful and thorough examination of the ladder’s condition to look for, at a minimum, the following: