Storage & Maintenance
Proper storage and maintenance of ladders is important for safety. Whenever possible, ladders should be hung horizontally on wall hooks in a dry place not subject to extremes of temperatures. Users can do minor maintenance, like lubricating hinges and tightening hardware. However, ladder repair is specialized work and should be completed by qualified persons or the manufacturer.
If conditions exist that make a ladder unsafe for use, it should be removed from service immediately and marked with a warning such as "Dangerous - Do Not Use". If a ladder cannot be repaired, it should be destroyed prior to disposal.