How many rungs should typically be above the edge of a roof for safety?

For safety reasons, it is generally recommended that at least five rungs of a ladder should extend above the edge of a roof. This practice ensures that firefighters have a secure and stable point of access and egress when climbing onto or descending from the roof.

Having this extra height provides a margin for safety, enabling firefighters to grasp the ladder firmly while transitioning between the ladder and the roof. It helps prevent accidents that might occur if a firefighter were to miscalculate their footing or if the ladder shifts. The extended rungs not only facilitate a safer approach to the structure but also support the weight of the firefighter and their equipment more effectively.

While fewer rungs might still allow for access, they significantly reduce the safety margin and increase the risk of falls, which is why the standard of five rungs is often emphasized in training and operational guidelines.