How far should ladders extend above the top edge of a trench?

Ladders should extend at least 3 feet above the top edge of a trench to provide safe and stable access for workers. This extension is crucial because it allows individuals to grasp the ladder securely while transitioning onto or off of the ladder, reducing the risk of falls. A 3-foot extension ensures that there is enough ladder overlap above the trench edge, giving users ample room to maneuver safely.

While a 2-foot extension might seem adequate, it may not provide sufficient safety margin for secure footing or may not extend high enough for easy access. Extensions that exceed 3 feet, such as 4 or 5 feet, might unnecessarily complicate the setup and could lead to additional hazards, such as reduced stability or challenges in making the climb. Hence, 3 feet is the ideal and recommended standard for ladder extension above trenches.