What safety consideration should be made when placing a ladder at an angle for climbing?

When placing a ladder at an angle for climbing, setting the angle at approximately 75 degrees is crucial for safety and stability. This angle ensures that the ladder is both secure and maximizes its strength, allowing for safe access and egress. A 75-degree angle provides a good balance between the ladder's base and its height, reducing the risk of slipping or tipping while in use.

This positioning increases the ladder's load-bearing ability, as the weight and stress are distributed more evenly across its structure. This helps prevent accidents, such as the ladder collapsing or sliding out from under the user, which could result in significant injuries.

Using an angle that is too steep or too shallow can compromise safety. If the angle is too steep, it may make it difficult to climb safely and can place excessive strain on the ladder. Conversely, if the angle is too shallow, the ladder might become unstable and could slide away from the wall. Thus, the recommendation of approximately 75 degrees is recognized as the optimal angle for proper ladder placement, ensuring safety while climbing.