What is the recommended spacing for ladders in trenches that are 4 feet or deeper?

The recommended spacing for ladders in trenches that are 4 feet or deeper is indeed 50 feet. This guideline is established to ensure safe access and egress for workers operating in deep trenches, which can pose significant hazards due to their depth.

Since trenches can create hazardous conditions including the risk of cave-ins, proper safety measures must be taken to allow workers to exit quickly in an emergency. Having ladders positioned every 50 feet allows workers to establish a safe and reliable means to escape, thereby significantly reducing the risk of injury. The emphasis on a 50-foot interval reflects safety standards and best practices that promote a safer working environment.

In contexts where workers are engaged in tasks at depth, quick and easy access to ladders is essential for maintaining operational safety and compliance with safety regulations. Therefore, the recommended spacing is specifically designed to balance practical accessibility with safety guidelines.