SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/osha-ladder-3-feet-above-landing
For access to an upper landing, how far above the landing must portable ladder side rails extend?
3 feet above the upper landing is required.
- 1 foot above
- 3 feet above ✔
- 5 feet above
Why: 1926.1053(b)(1) says ladder side rails used for landing access shall extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface.
Huh, didn't know that: The extension gives workers something to grab while getting on and off the ladder.
Why did the ladder get a promotion? It went above and beyond by 3 feet.
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References
Answer: 3 feet above. 1926.1053(b)(1) says ladder side rails used for landing access shall extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface.
- 29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(1) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/29/1926.1053
The ladder side rails shall extend at least 3 feet (.9 m) above the upper landing surface.
Checked 2026-10-10.
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