Extension and Loft Ladders: Reach, Angle and Setup
An extension or loft ladder is only as safe as the way it's set up. The right reach, the correct angle, and a secure footing turn a leaning ladder from a hazard into safe access. Most ladder accidents come down to setup, so it's worth getting these basics right every time. Here's how.
Set an extension ladder up for safe access by first choosing enough reach; the ladder should extend about a metre (roughly three rungs) above the point you're stepping off or working at, so you have something to hold. Lean it at the correct angle of about 75 degrees, which is the 1-in-4 rule: the base out one unit for every four units of height. Foot it on firm, level ground, make sure it can't slip, and secure or have it footed where you can. Maintain three points of contact when climbing and don't over-reach. A loft ladder provides safe, fixed access into a roof space; far safer than a portable ladder balanced at a hatch, and should be used and maintained correctly.
Working out the reach
Getting the reach right is a safety issue, not just convenience. An extension ladder used for access should extend about a metre (roughly three rungs) above the stepping-off point or the working height, so there's a secure handhold as you step on and off and you're not stretching at the very top. A ladder that's too short forces you to over-reach or work from the top rungs, which is where falls happen. Work out the height you need to reach, then choose a ladder that extends comfortably beyond it.
The correct angle
A leaning ladder set too steep can tip back; too shallow and the base can slide out. The correct angle is about 75 degrees, easily set with the 1-in-4 rule: for every four units of height up to the leaning point, the base sits one unit out from the wall. This angle keeps the ladder stable against both tipping and sliding. It's worth checking every time, because a rushed, badly angled ladder is a common cause of accidents.
Footing, securing and contact
- 01
Set the ladder on firm, level ground, not soft, uneven or slippery surfaces.
- 02
Make sure the base can't slip, and secure the ladder or have it footed where possible.
- 03
Lean the top against a solid surface, not a fragile or moving one.
- 04
Climb facing the ladder, keeping three points of contact, and don't over-reach or carry loads that stop you holding on.
Loft ladders
A loft ladder gives fixed, designed access into a roof space, which is far safer than balancing a portable ladder at a hatch. Whether sliding, folding or telescopic, it should be installed correctly, rated for the load, and used as intended: fully extended and set, with the same care for handholds and footing. For regular loft access, a proper loft ladder is the safe solution. Pat O Brien Safety supplies extension and loft ladders across Ireland; see which ladder do you need for the type and EN 131 explained for the rating.
Extension and loft ladder questions
What angle should an extension ladder be set at?
How far above the roof or gutter should a ladder extend?
Is a loft ladder safer than a portable ladder?
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