How to Properly Inspect a Step Ladder before Use

Ladder accidents account for over 40 percent of the deaths caused by falls in the last ten years, so preventing falls should be your number one concern whenever you use a ladder. Inspecting your ladder can prevent falls by recognizing problems before weight is applied to the step ladder. Learn how and when to properly inspect your step ladder to avoid falls, injury, and even premature death.

When Should I Inspect My Step Ladder?

You should inspect your ladder as soon as you retrieve it so that you are aware of any problems before ever using it. Additionally, you should inspect your step ladder before each use, as something could have affected it while in storage. If you have dropped or your ladder has fallen from any distance, you should inspect it for damage before using again.

What am I Looking for When Inspecting?

Place your hand on each step of the ladder to determine if they move. If they are not sturdy, they should not have weight applied to them. Damage or wear to slip-resistant material on steps should be replaced or repaired before use to prevent slips. Look for nails or screws protruding from the ladder that could enter a shoe and cause a fall. Examine all metal parts that hold pieces together, like the spreaders of the ladder. If they are damaged or faulty, they may not be able to hold any weight and collapse. If you own a wooden ladder, look for rotting which could cause your ladder to collapse under pressure. If your step ladder is made from fiberglass, look for cracks that could cause your ladder to buckle under added weight. If your ladder is old or has collected dust, consider replacement before it corrodes beneath you and causes injury that could be prevented. Finally, replace a ladder that has a bowed frame, as it is potentially dangerous to place weight upon.

What Can be Done to Add Life to My Step Ladder?

Along with inspection, taking care of your ladder is a good way to ensure that it has a long life full of use. If you have a fiberglass ladder, you can clean it every 3 months and spray with a lacquer to keep looking new and prevent excess wear and tear. Wooden ladders can be sealed with a wood preservative to extend their working lives, too. Ropes used for pulleys on extension ladders can be lubricated often to prevent fraying. If your ladder has been determined unfit for use, it should be destroyed and replaced.

Replacing a Step Ladder through IndustrialLadder.com

If you have a step ladder that needs replacing, IndustrialLadder.com can provide you with the highest of quality step ladders that you can find on the market. View our vast selection of step ladders on our website. If you see one that you like, you can order it and we will ship it directly to your front door! We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction, so if you have any questions for our highly experienced sales team, please give us a call today at 1-800-833-0800.

The post How to Properly Inspect a Step Ladder before Use appeared first on Industrial Ladders Blog.

from Industrial Ladders Blog http://ift.tt/2fbvzrs
via IFTTT