SafetyQuestion 561 of 700
A straight (non-self-supporting) ladder is set up against a wall. What placement BEST follows the recommended angle for safe use?
a.Base 4 feet out for every 1 foot of working height
b.Base directly against the wall, nearly vertical
c.Base 1 foot out for every 4 feet of working height
d.Any angle is fine if the top is tied off
Explanation
The safe setup is roughly a 4-to-1 ratio: the base should be about 1 foot away from the wall for every 4 feet of working height. Option a reverses the ratio, making the ladder dangerously flat. Option b is nearly vertical and prone to tipping backward. Option d ignores the angle even though tying off is also good practice. The 4-to-1 rule keeps the ladder stable against sliding and tipping.
Law Reference: Cal/OSHA Title 8 §1675Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
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