What is the correct slope ratio for an extension ladder leaned against a vertical wall?

The correct slope ratio for an extension ladder leaned against a vertical wall is indeed 1:4. This means that for every foot of height that the ladder reaches up the wall, the base of the ladder should be positioned four feet away from the wall.

This ratio is important for maintaining stability and safety while using a ladder. A 1:4 ratio provides a balance that reduces the risk of the ladder slipping or falling backward, which can lead to serious accidents and injuries. The steeper the angle of the ladder, the less stable it becomes, making adherence to this guideline essential for safe ladder use.

Understanding slope ratios helps workers follow best practices in ladder safety and ensures that they maintain proper angles, which is a critical aspect of the Health and Safety Technician training and certification provided by IICRC.