How far must ladders extend above the top of the excavation?

Ladders used in excavation sites must extend a specific distance above the edge to ensure safety and stability when workers are ascending or descending. The requirement for ladders to extend at least 3 feet above the top of the excavation is established to allow workers a secure handhold while they transition from the ladder to the working surface. This extra height provides a margin of safety by reducing the risk of slipping or missing the edge, which can lead to falls.

The three-foot extension also aids visibility and gives workers a clear indication of where the ladder ends in relation to the edge of the excavation, contributing to overall site safety. Ensuring that ladders are positioned and sized correctly helps to prevent accidents in potentially hazardous environments like excavations where the edges might be unstable.