CSLB C-46 Solar ContractorSafetyEasy
A solar crew is working on a residential rooftop where the roof pitch is 8:12. The eave height is 12 feet from the ground. What is the minimum height above the eave that a ladder must extend to safely access the roof?
- A3 feet
- B1 foot
- C4 feet
- D2 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 3 feet
OSHA and Cal/OSHA regulations require that a ladder used to access an elevated surface must extend at least 3 feet (0.9 m) above the landing surface to provide a secure handhold for safe transition.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 1 foot is insufficient and does not provide a safe handhold.
- C. 4 feet is more than the minimum but not incorrect; however, 3 feet is the specified minimum.
- D. 2 feet is also insufficient for safe transition.
Ladder Extension Above Landing
For safe access to an elevated work surface, a ladder must extend at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) above the landing point to provide a stable handhold for workers transitioning on and off the ladder.
- 3-foot extension is a safety standard.
- Provides a stable grab point for climbing on/off.
- Prevents overreaching or loss of balance.
- Applies to all types of ladders accessing elevated surfaces.
Memory trick: Three feet high, for safety in your eye.