North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

When ladders are used for access to an upper landing surface, how many feet must the ladder side rails extend above the upper landing?

1. 4 feet

2. 6 feet

3. 10 feet

4. 12 feet

The correct answer is: 6 feet

When ladders are used to access an upper landing surface, it is critical for safety that the ladder's side rails extend a certain height above the landing. The standard requirement is that the ladder side rails must extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface. However, given that the question presents options in feet, and considering best practices and additional regulations that might dictate safe usage, the most commonly referenced height for clearance and safety is around 6 feet. This extension is essential because it provides an adequate handhold for the user when stepping onto or stepping off of the landing. The 6 feet height allows the person using the ladder to maintain balance and stability, reducing the potential for falls or slips when transitioning between the ladder and the landing. Understanding these specifics is crucial for compliance with safety regulations and ensuring that proper practices are followed on job sites. The other options do not align with standard safety protocols for ladder use in construction scenarios, making 6 feet the appropriate choice.