If a ladder has spreaders that are not fully locked, what does the material say about safety?

• A. It is safe
• B. It is unsafe
• C. It depends on the height
• D. It depends on the brand

Answer: (B)

Spreaders are the braces that keep the ladder in a stable, open configuration and prevent the sections from folding in or shifting under load. When those spreaders aren’t fully locked, the ladder can suddenly collapse or close while you’re on it or under weight, creating a high fall risk. Because stability relies on those braces being engaged, a ladder with spreaders that aren’t fully locked is unsafe to use—regardless of how high you’re climbing or which brand you own. Always ensure the spreaders click into place and stay locked, and inspect the mechanism before each use. If the lock won’t engage properly or is damaged, don’t use the ladder.