Video Transcript

Andrea: Hello and welcome to Quick Tips from MSC Industrial Supply, a show where we invite the community to share their expertise with us. Today we have tips from Werner Ladder on how to inspect a ladder. Are you inspecting ladders before every use? Let's check these out.

Narrator: When inspecting your stepladder, begin at the bottom and work your way up. First, look at the feet and be sure the footpaths are properly attached and are not worn, torn or missing. Next, inspect the ladder rails for a fiberglass ladder. Make sure the rails are not excessively worn, damaged or split. For an aluminum stepladder, be sure there is no damage or bowing to the rails. Do this for both the front and back of your stepladder. Look at the steps of your ladder to make sure that they are not bent or damaged and that the connections are tight. Also, clean any debris or other substances from the steps. Finally, check to see if your ladder can open and close smoothly, making sure the spreaders lock securely and all four feet sit firmly on the ground. If you discover any of these problems, tag the ladder and take it out of service immediately. The rule of thumb is always, when in doubt, tag it and throw it out.

Andrea: For more information on Werner ladders and accessories, visit www.mscdirect.com/werner. Thank you Werner Ladder. You provide the community with a great reminder that most injuries can be avoided simply by taking the time to thoroughly inspect your equipment before using it. See you next time on Quick Tips.