How far should the center of the handhold be from the edge of the ladder?

The center of the handhold on a ladder should be positioned 4 inches from the edge. This distance is enforced to ensure safety and efficiency when using the ladder. A handhold that is too close to the edge can lead to an increased risk of losing grip, slipping, or encountering instability while ascending or descending. Placing the handhold at 4 inches provides a balance where it is within easy reach for most users, allowing for a firm grasp while also maintaining enough distance from the edge to minimize the likelihood of accidents.

The specified distance is based on ergonomic principles that consider the average reach of a person as well as safety guidelines established in industry standards. These standards aim to enhance user safety and operational effectiveness in various rail-related tasks. Understanding this measurement is crucial for ensuring that ladders are designed with user safety as a priority.