The change from Standard Time to Daylight Saving Time in the spring and from DST to ST in the fall serves as a reminder for many to do semi-annual maintenance tasks. Utilize this checklist every time you get your ladder out (your ladder lift included) and before you begin using it.
- There is no “Defective” tag on the ladder from a previous incident
- The rungs of the ladder are secure
- No rungs are missing
- The rails and rungs are free from sharp edges and splinters
- There are no visible cracks
- All hardware on the ladder is tightly and correctly attached
- No bolts, nails, screws, or other hardware stick out to cause injury
- The ladder is not broken, cracked, misshapen, splintered, rotted, or warped
- The braces, rails, and rungs are not broken, cracked, misshapen, splintered, rotted, or warped
- The feet and treads of the ladder are free from damage, rust, and wear
- The extension locks seat properly and securely
- Moving parts are sufficiently lubricated
- Chains, cords, pulleys, and ropes are in good repair and out of the way
- Protective pads are properly placed
- All attachments are free from damage, loose parts, and wear
- The electric motor or gas engine of a power ladder is clean and correctly attached