All ladders must be service tested every:

Ladders are critical tools in firefighting operations, and ensuring their reliability is paramount for the safety of firefighters. Service testing ladders once a year is a standard practice defined by NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) guidelines. This annual testing involves subjecting ladders to specified loads to verify their structural integrity and to ensure that they perform as expected under realistic conditions.

This testing helps identify any deterioration, defects, or damage that could compromise the ladder's performance. Given the rigorous demands placed on firefighting equipment and the potential risks involved, it is crucial to conduct these tests regularly to maintain operational readiness and safety.

Other timeframes such as six months, two years, or three months do not align with the established standards for ladder service testing, thereby reinforcing the importance of adhering to the annual schedule.