Which of the following is the correct required ladder extension above the roof edge?

Which of the following is the correct required ladder extension above the roof edge?

• A. 36 inches
• B. 48 inches
• C. 12 inches
• D. 24 inches

Answer: (A)

Extending a ladder a minimum of three feet above the roof edge is required to give you a solid handhold and a stable transition onto the roof, reducing the risk of slips when you step off the ladder. The 36-inch extension meets this safety minimum, so it’s the correct requirement. Shorter extensions don’t provide enough above-edge reach to grab and step onto the roof safely, while a longer extension like 48 inches, though safe, goes beyond the minimum that the rule specifies.

Extending a ladder a minimum of three feet above the roof edge is required to give you a solid handhold and a stable transition onto the roof, reducing the risk of slips when you step off the ladder. The 36-inch extension meets this safety minimum, so it’s the correct requirement. Shorter extensions don’t provide enough above-edge reach to grab and step onto the roof safely, while a longer extension like 48 inches, though safe, goes beyond the minimum that the rule specifies.