Portable Ladder Pre-Use Inspection Card and Log

Pre-use inspection template for portable ladders in a building-trades lab or shop. Records ladder condition before each use, documents deficiencies, and supports removal from service of damaged units in line with OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1053.

Inspection Details

• Inspection date and time
• Inspector name and role
• Ladder ID or asset tag
• Ladder type

General Condition and Stability

• Rails, rungs, steps, and spreaders are free of cracks, bends, splits, or deformation
  Inspect all structural members for visible damage, distortion, or missing material.
• Feet, shoes, and slip-resistant pads are present and in good condition
  Verify that all contact points are intact, secure, and not excessively worn.
• All fasteners, rivets, hinges, locks, and spreader bars are secure and functional
  Open and close the ladder as applicable to confirm smooth operation and positive locking.
• Ladder is clean, dry, and free of oil, grease, mud, paint, or other slipping hazards
  Check all surfaces that may be contacted during setup, climbing, or descent.
• Labels, duty rating markings, and manufacturer warnings are legible
  Confirm that required markings remain visible and readable for safe selection and use.

Use-Specific Safety Checks

• Ladder is the correct type and duty rating for the task
  Verify the ladder is appropriate for the work location, height, and load requirements.
• Ladder is set on a firm, level, stable surface
  Confirm the base is not on slippery, uneven, or unstable material.
• Ladder setup provides proper access and safe climbing angle or position
  Check that the ladder is positioned according to the ladder type and intended use.
• Area around ladder is free of overhead hazards and contact hazards
  Look for energized conductors, moving equipment, doors, or other hazards that could affect safe use.
• User has required PPE and maintains three points of contact during use
  Confirm appropriate PPE is available and the user understands safe climbing practices.

Deficiencies, Removal from Service, and Return to Service

• Any defect or non-conformance identified
  Record whether any damage, instability, or unsafe condition was found during inspection.
• Damaged ladder tagged and removed from service
  If a deficiency is present, the ladder must be clearly tagged and taken out of use until repaired or disposed of.
• Disposition of ladder
• Deficiency description and corrective action

Acknowledgment

• Inspector signature
• Supervisor or competent person review