SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/elec-ladder-nonconductive

Portable ladders used near energized parts must have what kind of side rails?

Nonconductive side rails.

Start playing free

  1. Nonconductive ✔
  2. Aluminum
  3. Galvanized steel

Why: A metal ladder can become part of the circuit if it touches a live part or overhead line. Fiberglass rails keep the ladder from carrying current to you.

Huh, didn't know that: Before work near overhead lines, OSHA says the lines must be deenergized and grounded or otherwise protected.

The dad joke
Where do electricians get their supplies? The Ohm Depot.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Nonconductive. A metal ladder can become part of the circuit if it touches a live part or overhead line. Fiberglass rails keep the ladder from carrying current to you.

  1. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.333 www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.333
    Portable ladders shall have nonconductive siderails
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Trades & ShopOne ohm of resistance is defined as one volt for every what?Trades & ShopIn Ohm's law, current through a resistor is directly proportional to what?Trades & ShopIn a series circuit, which quantity is the same through every resistor?

That's stuff everyone should know.