There was a serious injury, and an expensive law suit. Everything from oil barrels to unused pallets are appropriated as work platforms. In most situations, a ladder is a better tool. But, a ladder can be as dangerous as any makeshift device. Typically, you remove a ladder from service before it breaks or becomes too shaky to use.
Federal codes require a ladder inspection routine and the tag-out policy for suspected ladders.
When the work of ten or more employees involves climbing, a single competent person should be responsible for a safe climbing safety. In small companies, this may be you. The purchase, inspection, repair, disposal, and training are all duties of a delegated specialist trained to recognize hazards and respond correctly. Their useful life depends on construction quality, conditions of use, care, and general history. An average employee should be trained to recognize a broken or shaky ladder, but a specially trained person is necessary.