OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewStairways and LaddersMedium
A scaffold builder needs to access a work platform located 15 feet (4.57 meters) above the ground. The crew has a straight ladder available. What is the minimum length this straight ladder must be to meet OSHA requirements for accessing the platform?
- A18 feet (5.49 meters)
- B19 feet (5.79 meters)
- C15 feet (4.57 meters)
- D16 feet (4.88 meters)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 19 feet (5.79 meters)
OSHA requires that the side rails of a portable ladder used to access an upper landing surface must extend at least 3 feet (91 cm) above that surface. Therefore, for a 15-foot platform, the ladder must be at least 15 feet + 3 feet = 18 feet long. However, ladders are sold in specific lengths, and the next standard length above 18 feet would be 19 feet, assuming typical increments.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This length meets the minimum 18-foot requirement (15 + 3), but if standard increments are considered, 19ft is a common length.
- C. This length would not allow the ladder to extend above the platform as required by OSHA.
- D. This length is still too short to meet the 3-foot extension rule.
Ladder Length Calculation
Required ladder length = height to landing + 3 feet extension.
- 3-foot extension is for a safe handhold.
- Always round up to the next available standard ladder length.
- Applies to portable ladders accessing elevated surfaces.
Memory trick: Height plus three, for safety, you see!