How far should ladders extend above a landing for safety?

When using ladders, it is essential for safety to have a portion of the ladder extend beyond the landing. This extension helps provide stability and an extra handhold when transitioning on or off the ladder, reducing the risk of falls. The standard recommendation is that ladders should extend at least 3 feet above the landing.

This extension allows individuals to grasp the ladder while stepping onto or off of surfaces at height, ensuring they have a secure grip as they navigate. The rationale behind the chosen answer lies in the need for sufficient height to maintain balance and safety during these movements. Although an extension of 2 feet may seem sufficient, best practices dictate that a greater length of 3 feet is optimal for achieving the best stability and security while using the ladder near a landing.