Safety & Compliance · SOP

Portable Ladder Inspection and Tagging

Standard procedure for the systematic inspection of portable ladders, colour-coded tagging to indicate serviceability, and documentation requirements to maintain compliance with WorkSafeBC OHS regulations (G4.22) and CSA Z11 standards.

Estimated Time

15 min per ladder

Difficulty

Easy

Regulation

WorkSafeBC G4.22

Version

1.0

Free download — no sign‑up, no email.Take this SOP to your shop floor and make it yours.

↓ PDF (print‑ready) ↓ Word (editable)

Purpose

This procedure establishes the standardized process for inspecting portable ladders, applying colour-coded tags (green/red), and recording results to ensure that all ladders in use are free from structural defects and fit for purpose. The goal is to prevent fall‑related injuries and to demonstrate regulatory compliance with WorkSafeBC OHS Guideline G4.22 (Portable Ladders) and CSA Standard Z11.

Scope

This SOP applies to all portable ladders used in industrial, construction, maintenance, and warehousing operations owned or operated by the company. It covers step ladders, extension ladders, platform ladders, and multi‑purpose ladders. The procedure includes pre‑use checks (daily), periodic detailed inspections (quarterly or after any incident), colour‑tag application, and record‑keeping. This SOP does not cover fixed ladders, scaffolding, or aerial lifts.

Safety Precautions

ELECDo not use ladders near energized electrical equipment unless the ladder is rated non-conductive (e.g., fibreglass). Maintain a minimum 3-metre clearance from overhead power lines.
PPEWear appropriate personal protective equipment: safety glasses, hard hat, high‑visibility vest, and non‑slip footwear when handling or inspecting ladders.
REPAIRNever attempt to repair a damaged ladder – immediately remove it from service, attach a red “DO NOT USE” tag, and report the defect to supervision. Only authorized personnel may dispose of condemned ladders.

Required Tools & Materials

Inspection checklist (print or digital form)
Flashlight (to inspect hard‑to‑see crevices)
Tape measure or calipers (to check rung spacing and rail spread)
Green “PASSED” and red “DO NOT USE” ladder tags (flame‑resistant, weatherproof)
Permanent marker or label printer (for date and inspector initials)
Camera or smartphone (for photo documentation of defects)
Rags and mild cleaner (to remove grease or debris before inspection)

Digitize Your Safety & Compliance

Throw away the paper checklists. Have your operators complete safety audits, crash reports, and daily inspections directly on their phones using SafeDesk. Stay compliant with WorkSafeBC without the administrative bloat.

Try SafeDesk →

Procedure: Step-by-Step

1 Pre‑use visual check (daily): Before each use, examine the ladder for obvious damage – cracks, bends, corrosion, loose rungs, missing or worn feet. Remove any ladder with visible defects from service immediately.

2 Set up for detailed inspection: Place the ladder on a level, non‑slip surface. Extend extension ladders to full length and lock spreaders. For step ladders, open to full width and lock the spreader bars.

3 Inspect rails and rungs: Run your hand along both side rails – check for splinters, corrosion, dents, and deformation. Measure rung spacing (max 12″ for industrial ladders). Ensure rungs are not loose, bent, or cracked.

4 Check locking mechanisms and feet: Operate all locks, hinges, and spreaders – they must engage fully and hold without slippage. Inspect rubber feet for wear, cuts, or missing material. Replace if foot thickness is less than 1/8″.

5 Apply colour‑coded tag: If the ladder passes all checks, attach a green “PASSED” tag with the inspection date and inspector’s initials. If any defect is found, attach a red “DO NOT USE” tag, fill in the date, and move the ladder to a quarantine area.

6 Record and report: Log the inspection in the maintenance record (paper log or digital system). Include ladder ID, date, inspector name, results, and next inspection date (quarterly). For red‑tagged ladders, notify the supervisor and initiate disposal or authorized repair only if ladder is repairable per manufacturer guidelines.

Portable Ladder Inspection and Tagging

Digitize Your Safety & Compliance

Software that works like your best tools.