How far above the landing should the top of the ladder extend?

The top of the ladder should extend a minimum of 3 feet above the landing to provide a stable and secure handhold for individuals when they are accessing or exiting elevated surfaces. This extra height allows users to grasp the ladder comfortably while ensuring that they don’t have to reach excessively, which can lead to loss of balance. The extended portion of the ladder helps maintain safety by ensuring that the individual can safely transition onto or off of the elevated area without the risk of falling.

The requirement for the ladder to extend beyond the landing is particularly important with regard to maintaining proper posture and control while climbing or descending. By having 3 feet above the landing, users can safely position themselves before stepping off the ladder, significantly reducing the hazards associated with falls.

In terms of guidelines and safety standards, extending the ladder to this specified height is generally recommended across various safety regulations and best practices in ladder usage.