The Health and Safety Service has revised the Ladder Inspection form which prompts Premises Managers to assess each ladder in accordance with our Working Safely at Height Guidance.
We ask that each ladder is checked to make sure it is not twisted, bent, or otherwise distorted. The stiles (sides), rungs or treads should be straight and there should be no looseness in the joints and connections.
If the ladder is dirty it will need to be cleaned as damage can be hidden beneath all the dirt, and the dirt itself can cause the ladder to slip or cause the user to slip from the ladder. The manufacturer’s recommended inspection checks must be reviewed and after completing the check list, if any defects are spotted the ladder must not be used.
Lastly, inspection form asks the following:
- Is the ladder still fit for use?
- Was any significant damage or wear identified?
- If yes, have you arranged for the ladder to be repaired or destroyed?
- Have you or are you going to arrange for the ladder to be repaired?
- Have you arranged for the ladder to be destroyed or recycled?
Ladders must conform with EN 131 standard*. Detailed inspections must be carried out at fixed intervals. The more frequently the ladder is used, the more often you’ll need to inspect it. Those charged with formal ladder inspection must have been given training to ensure they have the required understanding for the task. The Health and Safety Service recommend ladders used and stored in good conditions are subject to the following minimum frequency of inspection:
| Level of use | Inspection schedule (at a minimum) |
| Frequent (on a daily basis) | Every 3 months |
| Occasional (on a weekly basis) | Every 6 months |
| Infrequent (less than monthly) | Every 12 months |
* Some specialist ladders such as roof ladders comply with British standards rather than the EN 131 – more information in the Ladder association code of practice.
Ladder inspection records must be held for 6 years. Records are to be kept by the persons in the organisation having direct responsibility for the business activities requiring the records. For further guidance refer to Somerset Council’s Retention of Records Policy.
