Ladder Inspection Books - 25 Checklists

Users should carry out a thorough pre-use visual and functional inspection before setting up a ladder to identify any visible defects, damage, or wear that could compromise safe use. Regular ladder inspections are essential to prevent accidents and ensure that any potential faults are identified at an early stage, long before they can develop into more serious or costly safety issues. This proactive approach helps protect both the operator and other personnel working nearby, reducing the risk of falls and injuries associated with unsafe ladder use.

Each ladder inspection book contains 25 individual ladder inspection checklists, designed to guide operators through a comprehensive review of all key ladder components. These include rungs, side rails, locking mechanisms, stabilisers, feet, hinges, and overall structural integrity. Operators are encouraged to examine every part of the ladder, checking for cracks, bends, corrosion, loose fittings, or other defects that could impair safe operation. Each completed checklist also captures observations regarding ladder stability and functionality. A duplicate carbon copy of each completed inspection is retained in the book for management records, providing a clear, auditable trail that demonstrates compliance and accountability for workplace safety inspections.

Once the pre-use inspection has been completed, the top copy of the checklist can be removed from the book, folded, and placed inside a ?Good to Go? safety ladder status tag. This tag clearly displays the inspection date and the results of the check for all users and supervisors to see, providing an immediate visual confirmation that the ladder has been inspected and is safe for use. This system reduces the risk of ladders being used without verification, ensuring that operators always have confidence in the equipment they are using.

If any faults are identified during the inspection, the checklist will prominently display a ?Do Not Use? message, immediately warning all personnel that the ladder must not be used until the issues have been addressed. Conversely, if the ladder is found to be safe and fully functional, the tag will show a ?Good to Go? message. Each inspection checklist is signed and dated by the competent person completing the inspection, ensuring accountability and traceability for safety audits and management review.

The Work at Height Regulations (WAHR) clearly stipulate that all work-at-height equipment, including ladders, must undergo routine inspections conducted by a competent person. Records of these inspections must be retained and made available for review by health and safety inspectors during audits, demonstrating that the organisation is meeting its legal responsibilities. Regular ladder inspections also help identify potential maintenance needs before they escalate, supporting effective equipment management and reducing long-term costs.

By implementing this ladder inspection system, organisations can ensure compliance with PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) and WAHR legislation, while also promoting recognised best practices for workplace safety. Operators are empowered to identify hazards early, maintenance issues are addressed promptly, and overall safety standards are improved across all areas where ladders are used.

Using these checklists consistently creates a culture of safety and vigilance, reinforces accountability for pre-use inspections, and ensures that ladders remain safe and reliable for everyday operations. It is an essential part of any workplace safety programme for organisations committed to protecting their employees and reducing preventable accidents.