Fall protection systems, such as guard railing, have specific OSHA requirements to ensure that the potential falling hazards are minimized. These requirements include:
- Vertical posts that must not exceeding 8 ft. apart.
- Top/mid rails at the proper height:
⇒ Top Rail: 42 + /- 3 inches
⇒ Mid Rail: 21 + /- 3 inches
- Systems must support outward forces:
⇒ Top Rail: 200 lbs.
⇒ Mid Rail: 150 lbs.
⇒ Toe Board (if present): 50 lbs.
Toe boards prevent objects from falling and
potentially creating more hazards.
The guard railing system pictured above is overlooking the tranquil and mystifying Elkhart river after a recent blanket of snow. The system is fully compliant per OSHA standard §1926.502(b).
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03/13/19
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