Free ladder inspection checklist

• The MapTrack ladder inspection checklist contains 25 checks across 6 sections. Sections covered: Rails & Stiles, Rungs / Steps, Feet & Base, Locking Mechanisms, Labels & Ratings, Storage & General Condition.
• Ladder details: type (step / extension / platform), make/model, serial number, asset/ID number, maximum load rating, height and material.
• Inspector details: name, date, site/location and inspection type (pre-use or formal).
• Rails and stiles: no cracks, bends, dents or corrosion on either rail; welds and rivets intact; rails straight and parallel.

Learn more about compliance and inspections in MapTrack.

• Prevent falls from height: identify structural defects, damaged rungs, missing feet or faulty locks before a worker uses the ladder.
• Compliance evidence: documented inspections demonstrate compliance with WHS legislation and AS/NZS 1892 requirements during audits or investigations.
• Consistency: a standardised checklist ensures every inspector checks the same items, regardless of experience level.
• Asset management: records help track when ladders were last inspected, their condition history and when they should be retired from service.
• Identify repetitive damage: a history of inspections can reveal ladders that are frequently damaged, suggesting a need for different equipment or better storage.
• Duty of care: demonstrates that the employer and site manager have taken reasonable steps to ensure ladders are safe to use.

• Ladder details: type (step / extension / platform), make/model, serial number, asset/ID number, maximum load rating, height and material.
• Inspector details: name, date, site/location and inspection type (pre-use or formal).
• Rails and stiles: no cracks, bends, dents or corrosion on either rail; welds and rivets intact; rails straight and parallel.
• Rungs and steps: all rungs present and secure; no bending, cracking or corrosion; non-slip surfaces (serrated metal, rubber treads) intact and not worn; correct and uniform spacing.
• Feet and base: rubber feet or spikes present and in good condition; swivel feet functional and locking; base spreaders (step ladders) intact.
• Locking mechanisms: spreader arms or braces (step ladders) lock fully and securely; rung locks / fly section locks (extension ladders) engage correctly; hinge locks secure.
• Labels and ratings: compliance label (AS/NZS 1892 mark) legible; duty rating and maximum load clearly visible; warning labels in place.
• Storage and general condition: no paint obscuring metal surfaces; no oil, mud or chemical contamination; stored correctly (horizontal or vertical rack, not leaning); no signs of heat or UV damage.
• Overall result: Pass/Fail with a defect register for failed items.
• Declaration and signatures: inspector and supervisor sign-off.

1. Record the ladder details (type, make, serial number, asset ID, max load, height) and inspector details at the top of the form.

   Identify the ladder by type (step, extension or platform), make and model, serial number, asset or ID number, maximum load rating and height. Record your name, competency level and the date to establish who performed the inspection and when.

2. Lay the ladder flat on a level surface or stand it against a wall in its normal working position (as applicable to the ladder type) for the inspection.

   For step ladders, open them fully and lock the spreaders. For extension ladders, extend each section and engage the rung locks. Position the ladder where you can inspect both sides, the top and bottom, and all moving parts comfortably and safely.

3. Work through each section in order: rails and stiles, rungs/steps, feet and base, locking mechanisms, labels and ratings, storage and condition. Mark P (Pass), F (Fail) or N/A for each item.

   Run your hands along each rail checking for cracks, dents or sharp edges. Flex each rung to check it is secure. Inspect rubber feet for wear or detachment. Test all locks and spreaders for positive engagement. Verify the compliance label and load rating are legible.

4. For any Fail item, describe the defect in the Notes column. Do not use the ladder until the defect has been assessed and the ladder repaired or replaced.

   Be specific about the defect location and nature, for example "left stile cracked 150 mm from top rung" or "front right rubber foot missing". This detail helps the maintenance team assess and repair the ladder without repeating the inspection.

5. If the ladder fails, tag it immediately with a Do Not Use tag and remove it from the work area.

   Attach a red out-of-service tag to a visible point on the ladder. Physically remove the ladder from the work area and store it in a quarantine location to prevent accidental use. Report the defective ladder to the site supervisor and raise a maintenance request.

6. Record the overall result and list all failed items in the defects register.

   Summarise all failed items in the defects register at the bottom of the form. Include the item, the defect description and the action taken (repaired on site, sent for repair, condemned). This register feeds into your asset maintenance records.

7. Sign and date the declaration. The supervisor reviews and countersigns.

   Your signature as inspector confirms the inspection was completed honestly and thoroughly. The supervisor countersignature acknowledges the findings and confirms corrective actions have been raised for any failed items.

Practical answers about the form, record keeping and using MapTrack.

This form is a starting point. Check the current requirements that apply to your equipment, work and location. The form alone does not establish compliance.

• AS/NZS 1892.1 - Portable ladders, Part 1: Metal ladders
• AS/NZS 1892.5 - Portable ladders, Part 5: Selection, safe use and care
• WHS Regulations 2011 - Chapter 4, Part 4.4 (falls)
• Safe Work Australia - Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces

• Model Codes of Practice (Safe Work Australia)
• Model WHS Regulations (Safe Work Australia)

MapTrack publishes this template. The linked authorities publish their own guidance; they haven't endorsed this form.

• Harness and lanyard inspection checklist
• Scaffold inspection checklist
• Working at heights permit
• Tool audit checklist
• Safety inspection checklist
• Pre-start inspections (MapTrack)
• Maintenance scheduling
• Resource centre