Ladder Safety
Extension Ladders
Setup & Overlap
Setup & Overlap
OSHA 1926.1053 · 3-Foot Above Landing · 4:1 Pitch · Overlap Min 3 ft for 36-48 ft Ladders
Extension ladders are the primary access equipment for elevated work on NYC construction sites — and the most fallen-from portable ladder type. The angle is wrong, the extension overlaps are short, the base isn't footed, or the top leans against a surface that gives way. Each of these is a predictable failure mode with a simple, specific prevention. Know the rules before you place the ladder.
Setup Angle — The 4:1 Rule
- The base of the ladder must be placed 1 foot out from the wall for every 4 feet of working height
- Pitch too steep (base too close): top load pushes the ladder away from the wall at the bottom — tip-over
- Pitch too shallow (base too far): the ladder buckles in the middle under load — structural failure
- Field test: stand with your toes at the base, arms extended horizontal — if your fingertips just touch the rung, the angle is approximately correct
Extension Overlap Requirements
- Ladders up to 36 feet: minimum 3-foot overlap between the fly section and the base section
- Ladders 36–48 feet: minimum 4-foot overlap
- Ladders 48–60 feet: minimum 5-foot overlap
- Never extend the fly section beyond the manufacturer's rated length — collapse locks must be fully engaged
Securing the Ladder
- Top: tie the ladder at the top to the structure or use a ladder standoff — leaning against a gutter or unsecured surface is not acceptable
- Base: have someone foot the ladder or use rubber non-slip feet on clean concrete. Never set on soft ground without a base pad
- Extension ladders for egress must extend 3 feet above the top landing — the 3-foot extension gives you something to grip as you step off
Working Off Extension Ladders
- Extension ladders are access equipment, not work platforms — prolonged work from an extension ladder requires a ladder leveler, an arm-width standoff, or a platform ladder
- One person per ladder — never have a second person climbing while the first is on the ladder
- Carry tools in a tool belt or haul line — never carry material in one hand while climbing
Discussion Questions
- Your work height is 20 feet. How far out from the wall must the ladder base be placed?
- You have a 40-foot extension ladder. What is the minimum required overlap between sections?
- Your extension ladder for floor access extends only 2 feet above the landing. Is this acceptable? What is the requirement?
- Name two acceptable methods to secure the top of an extension ladder.
Sign-Off
Project Address
Date
Time
Foreman / Supervisor
SSM / SSC Name & License No.
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