Summary Statement

Ladder side rails should be at least 3 feet above the upper level. Ladder angle incorrect. Top of the ladder is not secured. Non-self supporting ladders should be positioned at a 4:1 angle. The base should be 1 foot from the wall for every 4 feet in height of the top support point for the ladder. For a ladder that has a top support point of twenty foot, the base should be 5 feet from the wall. An easy way to estimate this angle is to put your toes at the ladder base and extend your arm. Your hand should just reach the ladder rungs. If the rungs are too close to you, the ladder angle is too steep. If the rungs are too far from you, the ladder angle is too broad.