How many feet should a ladder extend above the upper landing point when accessing an upper surface?

A ladder should extend three feet above the upper landing point when accessing an upper surface. This guideline is essential for ensuring that users have a secure handhold to grasp when stepping onto or off of the platform above. The three-foot extension provides stability and helps prevent falls, allowing a person to maintain safe footing and balance as they transition between the ladder and the upper surface. Adequate extension beyond the landing point is crucial in various applications, contributing to overall safety standards and best practices in ladder use.