In trenches, a ladder must be provided when the depth reaches 4 feet, and the maximum lateral distance to reach the ladder shall not exceed ______ feet.

In trenches, a ladder must be provided when the depth reaches 4 feet, and the maximum lateral distance to reach the ladder shall not exceed ______ feet.

• A. 25
• B. 50
• C. 75
• D. 100

Answer: (A)

The main safety rule here is that when a trench is four feet deep or more, a safe means of egress must be available, and workers should not be more than a short distance from a ladder. The standard sets that maximum lateral distance at 25 feet, so anyone in the trench can reach a ladder quickly in an emergency. Distances like 50, 75, or 100 feet would keep a worker too far away from an exit, increasing risk during a collapse or other incident.

The main safety rule here is that when a trench is four feet deep or more, a safe means of egress must be available, and workers should not be more than a short distance from a ladder. The standard sets that maximum lateral distance at 25 feet, so anyone in the trench can reach a ladder quickly in an emergency. Distances like 50, 75, or 100 feet would keep a worker too far away from an exit, increasing risk during a collapse or other incident.