Storage, Maintenance, & Transportation

Ladders should be properly stored and well-maintained in order to keep them in good condition. Good storage and maintenance practices will extend the life-span of your ladder and reduce the risk of injury. In addition, ladders should be properly and carefully transported to prevent injury and equipment damage.

Storage

Ladders should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated, sheltered area to protect them from weather effects. Wooden ladders are especially susceptible to effects from heat and dampness. Fiberglass ladders should also be stored where they will not be exposed to excessive sunlight. Straight and extension ladders should be stored horizontally on racks or using hooks. Ensure there is support at the top, middle, and bottom of the ladder to prevent sagging or warping. Never store materials on ladders. They may create a falling object hazard or warp part of the ladder.

General Maintenance

All wooden ladders that are used outdoors should be shellacked, varnished, or given two coats of linseed oil as a protective coating, if they did not already come with a protective coating from the manufacturer. Never paint a wooden ladder because the paint can hide defects.

The metal bearings of extension ladder rung locks and pulleys should be lubricated periodically. In addition, replace any frayed or worn ropes on extension ladders.

Keep all types of ladders free of oil, grease, or slippery materials by cleaning them frequently.

Damaged Ladders

Never use damaged ladders. Structural defects include ladders with broken or missing steps, rungs, cleats, safety feet, side rails, and more. Damaged ladders should be removed from service immediately. They may be sent for repair or disposed of properly. Any defective equipment must be labeled, and marked as "Do not use" or similar language. Never attempt to straighten a bent metal ladder. Instead, have repair work performed by a competent repair shop.

Transportation

Ensure that ladders are properly secured and supported when they are transported by vehicle. Also, ensure that there is sufficient padding for support points. Frequent vibration and bumping into other objects can damage the ladder. Also, if the ladder comes loose during transport, it could fall and damage other equipment or bystanders.

When transporting ladders by hand, make sure the front of the ladder is elevated, especially around corners and doorways. If the ladder is long and unwieldy, ask someone to help you carry it.

To learn more about Ladder & Stairway Safety visit our Ladder & Stairway Safety Online Training web page.