What should the height of a ladder be in proportion to the distance it is positioned away from the wall?

The recommended practice for ladder safety states that the height of the ladder should be one-third of the distance from the base of the ladder to the wall. This means if the base of the ladder is positioned a certain distance away from the wall, the top of the ladder should reach a height that is one-third of that distance. This specific proportion ensures stability and reduces the risk of the ladder tipping over.

Using the one-to-three ratio helps create a safe working angle for the ladder, allowing for proper balance and weight distribution. When properly positioned, the ladder remains secure and less likely to slide or collapse, prioritizing the safety of the worker using it. Following this guideline significantly contributes to preventing accidents while working at heights.