What is the correct way to taper brick stacks that exceed a height of four feet?

Tapering brick stacks that exceed a height of four feet is a critical safety practice designed to prevent accidents related to tipping or collapsing stacks. The correct method requires tapering back the stacks by two inches for every additional foot above the four-foot height. This means that as the height of the stack increases, the base must widen in a tapered manner to improve stability.

This approach minimizes the risk of bricks falling and ensures that the center of gravity remains as low as possible, which is essential for maintaining balance. Implementing this rule helps to create a safer working environment, particularly on construction sites where workers might be moving around or working near tall stacks of materials.

The other options do not provide adequate safety measures. Not tapering the stacks at all or only tapering the top row compromises the structural integrity and increases the likelihood of accidents. Stacking bricks directly without any taper ignores guidelines that are crucial for maintaining stability in high stacks.