When inspecting portable ladders, what should you check for on the rungs?

During the inspection of portable ladders, it is critical to ensure that none of the rungs are bent, loose, or gouged. This is because the integrity of the rungs directly affects the safety and functionality of the ladder. Any deformity such as bending or gouging can compromise the strength of the rungs, leading to potential failure when weight is applied. Loose rungs can also become hazardous as they may slip or detach when someone climbs the ladder, resulting in serious injury.

While ensuring that the rungs are attached properly, are shiny and clean, and can hold weight safely may seem important, these aspects do not directly address the critical structural integrity of the rungs themselves. The focus on the condition of the rungs—specifically checking for any physical damage or looseness—is paramount in maintaining ladder safety standards. This practice ensures that firefighters can rely on the equipment when it matters most.