How many feet should a ladder extend above the roof edge for safety?

A ladder should extend a minimum of three feet above the roof edge to ensure safety when accessing or egressing a roof. This extension provides a secure handhold, which is crucial for maintaining balance and stability while transitioning from the ladder to the roof or vice versa. It also helps prevent potential slips or falls by providing users with an additional grip point, making it easier to maneuver safely on and off the roof.

The three-foot extension aligns with safety regulations and recommendations found in many occupational safety and health guidelines. Following this standard is essential to create a safer working environment when using ladders in construction or maintenance tasks.