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Home / OSHA / Ladders & Stairways

OSHA Ladder Requirements — 3-Foot Extension, 4:1 Angle & Stair Rules

Ladders and stairways on construction sites are covered by 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X. A stairway or ladder is required at any break in elevation of 19 inches or more where no ramp or hoist is provided.

RequirementOSHA StandardSection
When requiredAt any point of access with an elevation break of 19 in. or more1926.1051(a)
Extension above landingPortable ladder side rails extend at least 3 ft above the upper landing surface1926.1053(b)(1)
Setup angle4:1 — base one-quarter of the working length away from the wall1926.1053(b)(5)(i)
LoadingNever beyond the manufacturer’s rated capacity1926.1053(b)(3)
ClimbingFace the ladder, at least one hand on it, no loads that could cause loss of balance1926.1053(b)(21), (22)
Fixed laddersFall protection required when total climb is 24 ft or more1926.1053(a)(19)
StairrailsRequired on stairways with 4 or more risers or rising more than 30 in.; top edge 36 in. minimum1926.1052(c)(1), (3)
Handrail height30–37 in. above the tread nosing1926.1052(c)(6)

Worth knowing

  • Defective ladders must be tagged "Do Not Use" and removed from service until repaired (1926.1053(b)(16)).
  • Metal ladders are prohibited for electrical work — use fiberglass near any energized parts.
  • Stairways must be installed between 30° and 50° from horizontal (1926.1052(a)(2)).
  • Employers must train each worker on ladder hazards with a competent person (1926.1060).
Source: 29 CFR Part 1926, Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (U.S. Department of Labor, public domain) — read the full standard at osha.gov. State-plan states may impose stricter rules, and your local building code applies in addition — find it on your jurisdiction page.
Fall Protection →Excavation & Trenching →Scaffolds →