When using a 28-foot extension ladder, how far from the building should the butt of the ladder be placed to reach 20 feet?

To determine the appropriate distance for placing the butt of a 28-foot extension ladder when reaching a height of 20 feet, it's essential to utilize the "4-to-1" rule which is commonly used in ladder positioning. This safety guideline states that for every four feet of height, the base of the ladder should be positioned one foot away from the structure.

In this case, to reach a height of 20 feet, the calculation based on the "4-to-1" rule would be as follows:

• 20 feet divided by 4 equals 5 feet.

Thus, the butt of the ladder should indeed be placed 5 feet away from the building to ensure stability and safety while allowing effective access. By positioning the ladder this way, it maximizes the ladder's use and minimizes the risk of it tipping over when an individual is climbing or working from it.