What is the minimum spacing between rung cleats or steps of a fixed ladder at a construction site?

The minimum spacing between rung cleats or steps of a fixed ladder at a construction site is specified to be no more than 12 inches apart. This guideline is important for ensuring safety and ease of use for workers who rely on ladders as part of their tasks.

Having a spacing of 10 inches ensures that the steps are comfortably reachable for most individuals while also maintaining good stability and support. This spacing helps to prevent accidents related to slips or missteps when workers are navigating the ladder. By keeping the rungs or steps closer together, it also provides a more stable footing, especially when workers need to carry tools or materials while climbing.

In construction environments, where factors such as worker safety, efficiency, and productivity are critical, adhering to these specific spacing requirements is crucial. This is why the answer of 10 inches effectively addresses both the functional and safety needs associated with the use of fixed ladders in a construction context.