Since cables or chains are commonly used as barriers or guards on construction projects at floor and wall openings and to establish uniformity in this Region, the following criteria will govern the use of cable and chain as guards. Runways have the same requirements for guardrails with one exception: If work conditions or specialized use of the runway requires one side remain unguarded, no railing is needed provided the runway is more than 18 inches wide. One stair rail system with handrail on each open side. This is what the phrase,Never saddle a dead horse! refers to. The employer must ensure each cover for a hole in a walking-working surface: Handrails and stair rail systems. When the employer uses a designated area, the employer must ensure: Employees remain within the designated area while work operations are underway; and. Question 3: Although it is not stated anywhere, must the wire rope used to comply with 1926.750(b)(1)(iii) (-inch wire rope; or 3/16-inch aircraft wire if you find that to be equivalent) have a maximum permissible deflection of 3-inches in one direction when a load of 200 pounds is applied in any direction at any point? However that would be contrary to guidance relating to wire rope used for guardrails contained in directives (STD 3-10.3), memoranda and proposed standards (Fall Protection In Construction.) Parapets or railings that are preexisting are acceptable at a minimum of 36 inches under OSHA code 55 Federal Register 13360, siting that replacing the parapet or railing would introduce unnecessary risk to the workers replacing it. Do not have more than a 0.25-inch (0.5-cm) clearance or opening above the walking-working surface. Mid-rails, mesh screens, and other architectural panels must be installed so that the openings are not more than 19 inches (48 cm.) -Christopher, Timberline Communications Inc. OSHA regulations simplified for a safe and compliant workplace. You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser to utilize the functionality of this website. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Depicts a well squared off. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. Doug graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Safety Management. Chicago, Illinois 60603. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. General Industry Safety Orders Group 1. If posts are spaced more than 8-feet on center, it will no longer be OSHA compliant. The top rail of a stair rail system may serve as a handrail only when: The height of the stair rail system is not less than 36 inches (91 cm) and not more than 38 inches (97 cm) as measured at the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail (see Figure D-13 of this section); and. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Approximately halfway between this height and the floor, there must be an intermediate rail that can withstand 150 pounds of force. Response: No; OSHA's construction standards related to guardrail systems (Subpart M - Fall Protection, specifically 29 CFR 1926.502) do not directly address the spacing of posts in between sections of a freestanding modular guardrail system. The section of the OSHA code that specifies most of the primary guardrail requirements and directly relates to safety railing is 1910.29. It should be securely fastened in place and with not more than 1/4-inch clearance above floor level. The material must be durable, the top rail and the midrail must be at least 1/4 inch (.6 cm) in diameter. The height of the toeboard must be at least 3 inches (8.9 cm) high from the ground to the top edge and be able to withstand a force of 50 lb (222 N) in any direction. Plus, it's a safe option for kids and guests of all ages. RAILINGS open-sided stairs < 44" require 1 stair rail/side; open-sided stairs > 44" require 1 stair rail and 1 separate handrail/side. (4) Guardrails installed after May 26, 2011. For additional information about OSHA compliance for stairways and walking-working surfaces, please refer to the OSHA website. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. HEIGHT CLEARANCE minimum 6'6" clearance from nose of tread . This load should be of equal or greater weight than loads expected in use. Director of Safety Services There is at least one 3/16-inch aircraft cable (Galvanized and tinned aircraft cord and strand Construction 1x19 - Nominal Breaking Strength 4700 pounds) that has a greater nominal breaking strength than does at least one type of -inch wire rope (Iron Galvanized Running Rope - Construction 6x12 - Nominal Breaking Strength 4560 pounds). Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. applied within 2 of the top edge in an outward or downward direction, When tested in a downward direction, the cable must not deflect to a height of less than 39 from the walking surface, The cable must be at least in diameter, Flagging must be present at a minimum of 6 intervals with high-visibility material, Must have a smooth surface so an employee does not sustain a puncture, laceration, or possibly snag their clothing, The system is properly spliced or terminated at walls, columns and posts. Steel banding and plastic banding are not used for top rails or midrails. The tensioning device shall have a breaking strength of not less than 10,000 pounds. The rail is able to withstand a 200 lb force in a downward or outward direction. The employer must ensure each safety net system meets the requirements in 29 CFR part 1926, subpart M. Covers. Visit our construction focused solutions at. at intervals not to exceed 8 feet - 1926.451(a)(5))? Yarding Safety (Logging) Yarding is the logging operation that moves felled trees from the slash pile to the landing or storage area prior to transportation. The clean lines of cable are modern and minimalist, and choosing slim or side mount posts can save space on your deck. If it does withstand 200 lb force loads, it doesnt need to be attached to the structure. Related Resources This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. You stated that the freestanding guardrail system meets the 200 pound (890 N) force requirements required by 29 CFR 1926.502(b)(3) and 1910.23(e)(3)(iv) and that you have twice had engineering firms conduct calculations and verify compliance. Sincerely, to the felled trees. Typically, cable guardrails are erected by ironworkers at the final interior and exterior perimeters of floors upon completion of installing the deck. OSHA1910.25covers standards for all stairways (including a standard, spiral, ship, and alternating tread-type stairs). Is capable of withstanding a maximum horizontal pull-out force equal to two times the maximum intended load or 200 pounds (890 N), whichever is greater. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. Mr. Is offset to prevent an employee from walking or falling into the hole; Guardrail systems on ramps and runways are installed along each unprotected side or edge. Dear Mr. Dillon: Categories: . Have open risers if the tread depth is less than 9.5 inches (24 cm); Have a minimum tread width of 7 inches (18 cm), measured at the leading edge of the tread (i.e., nosing). Turner Construction Company Toeboards may be omitted around vehicle repair, service, or assembly pits when the employer can demonstrate that a toeboard would prevent access to a vehicle that is over the pit. ], Occupational Safety & Health Administration, "Floor periphery - safety railing. 28 abril, 2022. Spiral stairs must meet the vertical clearance requirements in paragraph (d)(3) of this section. OSHA regulations state that cable railings must have a smooth top rail at 42 inches above the floor that is able to withstand at least 200 pounds of pressure from any direction. Standard stairs. Rungs, cleats, and steps of portableladders and fixed ladders should be a minimum of 10 inches (25 cm) apart and no larger than 14 inches (36 cm) apart, as measured between center lines of the rungs, cleats, and steps. Designing an OSHA compliant railing system is equally important; post-spacing, material choice, finish, toeboard, and gates are all things to consider when designing your guardrail. Guardrail systems. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. However, cast-in-place concrete structures may transition from wood guard rails to cable guardrails installed by carpenters. (1) For wood railings: Wood components shall be minimum 1500 lb-ft/in (2) fiber (stress grade) construction grade lumber; the posts shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber spaced not more than 8 feet (2.4 m) apart on centers; the top rail shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber, the intermediate rail shall be at All openings in guardrail systems are small enough to prevent objects from falling through the opening. Current ErectaStep tread depth (i.e. Total height measurement 42 IN (3 IN) (107 CM 8 CM). Wire rope and/or cable as a method of perimeter protection for a building under construction. Employers must ensure that each employee who climbs a fixed ladder without fall protection: Ladder safety systems. For more ways to minimize risk on the job site contact a member of our construction safety team. Stair rail or stair rail systemmeans a barrier erected along the exposed or open side of stairways to prevent employees from falling to a lower level. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. However, no such carte blanche rule exists and never has in the OSHA regulations. If you're in California, they require residential posts to be a minimum of 42 inches tall. Depicts two figures showing two types of Guard Rail Systems. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. If you need additional information, please contact us by fax at: U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA, Directorate of Construction, Office of Construction Standards and Guidance, fax # 202-693-1689. We're here to help! Directorate of Field Operations, Occupational Safety & Health Administration, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. The employer is responsible for employee safety on fixed stairways such as roof access stairs,crossover stairs,loading dock stairs,in-plant office stairsare all common workplace stairs. General Physical Conditions and Structures Orders Article 2. Answer: The response is a qualified yes. or ladder safety system provided that the cage or well does not interfere with the operation of the system. The U-Bolt of the clip should be applied to the dead end of the wire rope and the saddle on the live end. 1910.29(b)(9) - Top rails and mid-rails must be at least 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) in diameter or thickness. Per OSHA 1910.28, railings installed 60 days before April 10, 1990, can be grandfathered into OSHA compliance at a minimum of 36 inches in height from the working-walking surface. Therefore, it does not require perimeter safety cables on the roof level. If the items are piled higher than the midrail, the employer also must install paneling or screening to the top rail and for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below; and. Occupational Safety & Health Administration, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance, OSHA - ARA's Federal/State Operations - Technical Support. Spacing of the posts in between modular guardrail system sections. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Copyright 2023 ErectaStep. An employer may use these guidelines as a starting point for designing guardrail systems. Find out more about the general requirements for toeboard, when is it required? OSHA standard 1926.502(b)(3) requires guardrails to withstand a 200-pound concentrated load. means a device with rungs, steps, or cleats used to gain access to a different elevation. The employer must ensure each personal fall protection system meets the requirements in subpart I of this part; and. Are perimeter safety cables required in this situation under 1926.760(a)(2)? Openings in stair rails. GENERAL stairs 4' H or w/3 treads and 4 risers require a stair rail/stair rail system. Handrails and the top rails of stair rail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied in any downward or outward direction within 2 inches (5 cm) of any point along the top edge of the rail. Cages, wells, and platforms used with fixed ladders. 1910.25(e)(4) Have a minimum tread width of 18 inches (46 cm). The ladder should be placed 7 IN (18 CM) Min on Center and 15 IN (38 CM) MIN from either left or right side with a total space of 27 IN-30 IN (69 CM-76 CM) for well opening, Figure D-15 -- Example of General Construction of Cages. Standard Specifications. 55 West Monroe Street This paragraph (h) applies only to employers engaged in outdoor advertising operations (see 1910.28(b)(10)). Intermediate supports shall be installed in such a manner that they will provide the strength and spacing outlined for Posts in 1926.500(f)(l)(i), (ii) & (iii). (1) For wood railings: Wood components shall be minimum 1500 lb-ft/in(2) fiber (stress grade) construction grade lumber; the posts shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber spaced not more than 8 feet (2.4 m) apart on centers; the top rail shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber, the intermediate rail shall be at least 1-inch by 6-inch (2.5 cm x 15 cm) lumber. Handrails have the shape and dimension necessary so that employees can grasp the handrail firmly. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. The standard, as written, could be enforced so that no deflection is permitted. for Federal/State Programs. or the cable horizontal span is too great, if the intermediate posts spaced too far apart (more than 42" of horizontal distance o.c. Guardrail height must be between 39 inches and 45 inches. Spaces between each post and intermediate vertical member is 19 IN (48 CM) MAX. Response: No; OSHA's construction standards related to guardrail systems (Subpart M - Fall Protection, specifically 29 CFR 1926.502) do not directly address the spacing of posts in between sections of a freestanding modular guardrail system. So no matter what you need from help with OSHA compliance to learning how our 3D configurator can give you instant (and accurate) drawings and quotes our experienced team will make sure you get it. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. Contact us for expert assistance with your fall arrest, fall restraint and fall protection requirements System Types "L" and "T" Column Style Lifelines View "L" and "T" Column Style Lifelines Continuous Pass Through Systems When the 200-pound (890-N) test load is applied in a downward direction, the top rail of the guardrail system must not deflect to a height of less than 39 inches (99 cm) above the walking-working surface. TERMS OF USE|PRIVACY POLICY|SITEMAP|LEGAL NOTICE|INCOME DISCLOSURE. 1) safety railing must be -inch in diameter (a plastic coating could be used to bring the diameter up to -inch) 2) the safety railing must be 42 inches high, plus or minus 3 inches 3) the top must not fail and may deflect to a point no lower than 39 inches above the floor when a 200 pound load is imposed on it in a downward or outward direction. Surfaces. If the cable spacing is more than 3" o.c.) NFPA 101: Life Safety Code provides requirements that limit the effects of re and related hazards. OSHA also requires the surface of the railing itself must be smooth to protect employees from injuries; such as cuts, punctures and to prevent snagging. Handrails and stair rail systems are smooth-surfaced to protect employees from injury, such as punctures or lacerations, and to prevent catching or snagging of clothing. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. 6. OSHA regulations state that cable railings must have a smooth top rail at 42 inches above the floor that is able to withstand at least 200 pounds of pressure from any direction. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. The Corner Post System comes with pre-set cable tie-offs to meet OSHA's required 42" top rail and 21" mid rail heights, but can be adjusted when floor thickness changes. A safety railing of -inch wire rope. Assurance (Assurance Agency, Ltd.) is not affiliated withAssurance IQ, Inc. Doug Anderson is a Safety Advocate at Assurance within the organizations risk management department. Miles, Jr., Director Return to index . If the railing dips below 39 inches, due to the force, the railing is not OSHA compliant. Is erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge for work that is both temporary and infrequent, or not less than 15 feet (4.6 m) for other work. Risk Managers should keep the below in mind to share with their workers and safety committees. Midrails are placed halfway between the top rail and ground. The employer must ensure each warning line: Has a minimum breaking strength of 200 pounds (0.89 kN); Is installed so its lowest point, including sag, is not less than 34 inches (86 cm) and not more than 39 inches (99 cm) above the walking-working surface; Is supported in such a manner that pulling on one section of the line will not result in slack being taken up in adjacent sections causing the line to fall below the limits specified in paragraph (d)(2)(ii) of this section; Is clearly visible from a distance of 25 feet (7.6 m) away, and anywhere within the designated area; Is erected as close to the work area as the task permits; and. The employer must ensure each cover for a hole in a walking-working surface: 1910.29 (e) (1) Is capable of supporting without failure, at least twice the maximum intended load that may be imposed on the cover at any one time; and 1910.29 (e) (2) Is secured to prevent accidental displacement. In-fill panels, such as mesh or screens, must extend from the walking surface to the top-rail and the entire opening between vertical rails. Toeboard must be added where there is a hazard and continue along the working area that is exposed. Therefore in Region III, for the purpose of complying with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1926.750(b)(1)(iii), a safety railing that meets the following criteria would be considered to be equal to a -inch wire rope: If you require any additional information regarding this matter, please contact [the Directorate of Construction at 202 693-2020]. Assistant Commissioner for Enforcement Mr. B. J. Newton The use of wire ropes as top rails and intermediate rails of guardrail systems used for perimeter protection or for guardrails used on scaffolding meeting the equivalent requirements of 29 CFR 1926.500(d)(1) and 29 CFR 1926.451(a)(5) is acceptable provided it meets the following guidelines: (1) Wire rope shall be secured to each support and taut at all times. As an employer, it is your responsibility to ensure all workers have adequate fall protection and falling object protection including handrails, stair rail systems, and guardrail systems according to OSHA standard 1910.28. (2) The wire rope shall be free of sharp edges, burrs, or projections which may be a hazard. The criteria and practices requirements for guardrail systems on scaffolds are contained in 29 CFR part 1926, subpart L. Figure D-11 -- Guard Rail Systems. Standard Number: 1926.500 1926.451 Have a minimum vertical height of 3.5 inches (9 cm) as measured from the top edge of the toeboard to the level of the walking-working surface. Stainless steel cable railing is easy to clean and maintain over time.