Title: Describe maintenance, cleaning, and inspection procedures for ladders.
Course: Firefighting I (15152-I) > Section: Using Ladders

Description should include visual inspection and testing requirements

- before placing the ladder in service for the first time
- after the ladder has been subjected to loads exceeding the NFPA recommended level
- after the ladder has been used in any unusual manner
- after the ladder has been repaired
- any time there is a question regarding ladder safety.

Methods for maintenance should include

- wiping wood ladders dry after they have been wet
- oiling all pawls and pulleys
- lubricating guides, grooves, and other bearing surfaces
- applying varnish to wood ladders when needed
- sharpening dull spurs
- removing any splinters or burrs
- replacing worn parts when needed.

Process/Skill Questions:

- How often should a ladder be tested?
- What device detects damage that has occurred to a ladder?
- What NFPA standard references ladder maintenance?