How should ladders be inspected before use?

Inspecting ladders before use is crucial for ensuring the safety of the person using it and preventing accidents. The correct choice emphasizes the need to check for stability, damage, and secure rungs.

When assessing stability, it's important that the ladder can support the weight and not wobble during use. Damage can include anything from cracks to bent rungs, which could compromise the integrity of the ladder. Ensuring that the rungs are secure prevents any risk of slipping or falling while climbing up or down.

While it is also important for the ladder to be the correct height for the job, simply choosing an appropriately sized ladder does not guarantee safety. Focusing solely on the base of the ladder overlooks critical aspects such as the condition of the rungs and the overall structural integrity. Checking for brand markings may help identify the manufacturer but does not provide any information about the ladder's current safety status or functionality. Thus, thorough inspection encompasses a wider range of safety checks than what's indicated by the other options.