24 inches this extension above the access level must be at least 24 inches wide to accommodate the width of climber s body and not more than 30 inches of clearance allowing the climber to easily reach both hand rails.
Osha standards for roof access ladders.
For through ladders the steps or rungs are omitted from the extensions and the side rails are flared to provide not less than 24 inches 61cm and not more than 30 inches 76 cm of clearance.
The side rails of through or side step fixed ladders shall extend 42 inches 1 1 m above the top of the access level or landing platform served by the ladder.
If the parapet is continuous the access level shall be the top of the parapet.
For a parapet ladder the access level shall be the roof if the parapet is cut to permit passage through the parapet.
When a ladder safety system is provided the maximum clearance between side rails of the extension must not exceed 36 inches 91 cm.
However the source document for 29 cfr 1910 27 ansi a14 3 1956 safety code for fixed ladders has been revised several times since its adoption by osha in 1971 and its most current version ansi a14 3 2002 american national standard for ladders fixed safety requirements allows fixed ladder usage without cages or wells for a.
Per osha 1910 23 d 4 the side rails of through or sidestep ladders must extend 42 inches above the top of the access level or landing platform served by the ladder.
Under the new regulations a ladder over 24 feet high will require a personal fall arrest system or ladder safety system.
In general the standards require the following.
Occupational safety and health standards.
Following osha standard strictly could leave you and your company with a liability should an accident occur.