The top rail of the stair rail system meets the other handrail requirements in paragraph (f) of this section. Visit our construction focused solutions at. Directorate of Construction, 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. Commonwealth of Virginia Where tools, equipment, or materials are piled higher than the top of the toeboard, paneling or screening is installed from the toeboard to the midrail of the guardrail system and for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below. Some areas require taller guardrail. Safety Tips for Cable Guardrails on Construction Sites, Construction Motor Vehicles: How to Stay DOT Compliant, The top cable is 42 +/- 3 in height from the walking surface, The middle cable is approximately 21 in height from the walking surface, The cable system must be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 lbs. Are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 50 pounds (222 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the toeboard. ], Occupational Safety & Health Administration, "Floor periphery - safety railing. Safety cable guardrails can provide OSHA compliant fall protection for employees on a construction project. Sincerely, Outdoor advertising. 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. (3) The maximum deflection of the top rail when a load of 200 pounds is applied in any direction at any point on the top rail shall not exceed 3 inches in one direction which includes the free hanging sag in the wire rope. (3) For structural steel railings: posts, top rails, and intermediate rails shall be at least 2-inch by 2-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) by 3/8-inch (1.1 cm) angles, with posts spaced not more than 8 feet (2.4 m) apart on centers. 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. Measurement 36 IN - 38 IN (91 CM - 97 CM) between stair and top of handrail. Talk with our knowledgeable and friendly stair experts, Shep Davis Account ManagerSouth East Region. Code requires guardrail in residential structures be a minimum of 36 inches. | Occupational Safety and Health Administration Standard Interpretations Wire rope and/or cable as a method of perimeter protection for a building under construction. Mr. A guardrail is typically required for stairs with 4-or-more risers, or for a deck or balcony with 30 inches above grade. From time to time, letters are affected when the Agency updates a standard, a legal decision impacts a standard, or changes in technology affect the interpretation. 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. Guardrail systems are smooth-surfaced to protect employees from injury, such as punctures or lacerations, and to prevent catching or snagging of clothing. Anything after that date, 42 inches is the standard height that must be met and support a force of 200 lb at any point in the railing. OSHA requires guardrail posts to be spaced no more than 8-feet apart on center, no matter if its wood, pipe railing, or structural steel. If constructed of structural metal, the top . However, fall protection, whether accomplished by guardrails, nets, personal fall arrest systems, etc., is nonetheless required on the roof level at fall heights over 15 feet (with certain exceptions) pursuant to the requirements of 1926.760(a)(1). This is in response to your letter of June 20, 2003, to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) concerning requirements in the steel erection standard regarding perimeter columns and perimeter safety cables. Winding stairways may be used on tanks and similar round structures when the diameter of the tank or structure is at least 5 feet (1.5 m). The chain or cable shall be anchored at intervals not to exceed 100 feet. 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. 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. The employers must ensure toeboards used for falling object protection: Are erected along the exposed edge of the overhead walking-working surface for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. The employer must ensure guardrail systems meet the following requirements: The top edge height of top rails, or equivalent guardrail system members, are 42 inches (107 cm), plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm), above the walking-working surface. Connection of top rail to post. Emergency stop devices (buttons, pull-cords and foot pedals) are covered by IEC 60947-5-5, Low voltage switchgear and controlgear, Part 5-5: Control circuit devices and switching elements Emergency stop device with mechanical latching function. This Appendix serves as a non-mandatory guideline to assist employers in complying with these requirements. Its thin lines keep your views open. Be smooth in texture to avoid injuries such as lacerations, cuts, or snagging of clothing. Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. Minimal or No Flagging apply high-visibility duct tape (yellow or orange) to the cable at a minimum of 6 intervals. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Toeboards must be solid and run the entire length where there's potential for objects to fall to the lower level. Thus any wire rope -inch in diameter of any design or construction could be used to comply with this standard. Our letters of interpretation do not create new or additional requirements, but rather explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances. Is mounted to provide at least 3 inches (8 cm) of clearance from the framing or opening; and. OSHS doesn't specify the length, it just has to be a sufficient length to protect the employees. Cable shall be not less than 3/8 inch mild plow steel. Answer: The response is no. We have paraphrased your question below: Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. 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. When it comes to keeping your workplace productive theres nothing more important than safety. Caution signs Warn against potential hazards or caution against unsafe practices. When guardrail systems are used at hoist areas, a removable guardrail section, consisting of a top rail and midrail, are placed across the access opening between guardrail sections when employees are not performing hoisting operations. However, fall protection, whether accomplished by guardrails, nets, personal fall arrest systems, etc., is nonetheless required on the roof level at fall heights over 15 feet (with certain exceptions) pursuant to the requirements of 1926.760(a)(1). Performs climbing duties as a part of routine work activity. Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, or equivalent intermediate members are installed between the walking-working surface and the top edge of the guardrail system as follows when there is not a wall or parapet that is at least 21 inches (53 cm) high: Midrails are installed at a height midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking-working surface; Screens and mesh extend from the walking-working surface to the top rail and along the entire opening between top rail supports; Intermediate vertical members (such as balusters) are installed no more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart; and. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. One of ErectaSteps components is bolt on aluminum ladders. 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. See OSHA Directive CPL 02-01-034 "Inspection policy and procedures for OSHA's steel erection standards for construction" published on 3/22/2002 for the current policy on OSHA's steel erection standards (1926 Subpart R) for construction. -Christopher, Timberline Communications Inc. OSHA regulations simplified for a safe and compliant workplace. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. (4) Guardrails installed after May 26, 2011. Approximately halfway between this height and the floor, there must be an intermediate rail that can withstand 150 pounds of force. Richmond, Virginia 23241 Cal-OSHA is notorious for having more stringent requirements. Standard stairs. Provide and install all fall protection systems and falling object protection this subpart requires, and comply with the other requirements in this subpart before any employee begins work that necessitates fall or falling object protection. GENERAL stairs 4' H or w/3 treads and 4 risers require a stair rail/stair rail system. When mobile mechanical equipment is used to perform work that is both temporary and infrequent in a designated area, the employer must ensure the warning line is erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the unprotected side or edge that is parallel to the direction in which the mechanical equipment is operated, and not less than 10 feet (3 m) from the unprotected side or edge that is perpendicular to the direction in which the mechanical equipment is operated. Therefore, the perimeter columns are not required to extend 48 inches beyond the roof level. OSHA1910.25covers standards for all stairways (including a standard, spiral, ship, and alternating tread-type stairs). If the railing dips below 39 inches, due to the force, the railing is not OSHA compliant. for Federal/State Programs. 1910.29(j) Personal fall protection systems. The second is side-step Ladder, Access lateral from Ladder. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. Approximately halfway between this height and the floor, there must be an intermediate rail that can withstand 150 pounds of force. OSHA has a requirement that hand rails, posts, and top and intermediate rails shall be at least 1-1/2 inch nominal diameter, with posts spaced not more than 8 feet on centers. 1910.25(b)(5)(ii) Less than 22 inches (56 cm) for platforms installed on or after January 17, 2017 (see Figure D-7 of this section); 1910.25(b)(6) Each stair can support at least five times the normal anticipated live load, but never less than a concentrated load of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) applied at any point; 1910.25(b)(7) Standard stairs are used to provide access from one walking-working surface to another when operations necessitate regular and routine travel between levels, including access to operating platforms for equipment. [59 FR 40743, Aug. 9, 1994; 60 FR 5131, Jan. 26, 1995], Occupational Safety & Health Administration, Guardrail Systems - Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying with 1926.502(b), Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance, 1926 Subpart M App B - Guardrail Systems - Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying with 1926.502(b). It is important that the railing should not only protect the employee from a fall, but it cannot pose any other hazards. Requirements for perimeter columns and perimeter safety cables in the Steel Erection standard. Return to index . Dan Kane If you require any additional information regarding this matter, please contact [the Directorate of Construction at 202 693-2020]. 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. This load should be of equal or greater weight than loads expected in use. 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. IMPORTANT Apply first load to test the assembly. Perimeter columns shall not be erected unless: The standard requires perimeter columns to extend 48 inches above the finished floor "to permit installation of perimeter safety cables prior to erection of the next tier" Since there is no "next tier" once the final tier has been erected, the language of the provision indicates that the requirement does not apply to the final tier's columns. To assure that you are using the correct information and guidance, please consult OSHA's website at http://www.osha.gov. It is designed to be used anywhere a cable must terminate. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. 1926.500, Guardrails, handrails & guards. The employer must ensure: Finger clearance. Chicago, Illinois 60603. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. We have paraphrased your question below: The minimum guardrail system height requirement of the majority of codes is 42 inches plus or minus 3 inches. Answer: Section 1926.756(e) states: The standard requires perimeter columns to extend 48 inches above the finished floor "to permit installation of perimeter safety cables prior to erection of the next tier" Since there is no "next tier" once the final tier has been erected, the language of the provision indicates that the requirement does not apply to the final tier's columns. (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 OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. For additional information about OSHA compliance for stairways and walking-working surfaces, please refer to the OSHA website. Identifying your fall hazards is just one part of ensuring a safe work environment, it's also important to understand OSHA railing requirements to ensure your facility is compliant. MOdErn sTEEl COnsTruCTiOn feBruary 2009 U.S. Department of . Answer: The response to this question is a qualified yes. 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. These toeboards shall be secured in place as required by the Standards. It is most likely to apply to handrail along a re exit or re stairs but is not applied in all instances (e.g. Cable guardrails are commonly seen on construction projects. An employer may use these guidelines as a starting point for designing guardrail systems. TO: ALL AREA DIRECTORS Paragraph 1926.500(f)(l)(vi) provides for the utilization of types, sizes and arrangements of railing construction provided they meet the conditions established in sub-paragraph a thru d. In construction the use of cables or chains to guard door and wall openings is common practice; however, unless these chains or cables are of sufficient size and strength to support the loads which might be imposed, they imply a security which is not present. Manila or synthetic rope used for top rails or midrails are inspected as necessary to ensure that the rope continues to meet the strength requirements in paragraphs (b)(3) and (5) of this section. Director of Safety Services Spacing of the posts in between modular guardrail system sections. May 22, 1989 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. This is what the phrase,Never saddle a dead horse! refers to. Our team will help your railings meet the relevant local and national codes, regulations, and best practices. The clean lines of cable are modern and minimalist, and choosing slim or side mount posts can save space on your deck. OSHA deems any change in elevation of 48 inches or more to be a fall hazard requiring a form of fall protection in walking-working areas. Be sure to check with your code official regarding your area's guardrail height requirements. Construction sites with vertical drops of 6 feet or more may use a guardrail system instead of other OSHA-approved safety measures. wide. Do the perimeter columns have to extend beyond the roof level when the building has topped out? In their simplest form, cable fall protection systems consist of wire rope secured by a series of terminal and intermediate anchor points. When there's no wall or parapet higher than 21 inches, gaps larger than 19 inches are non-compliant, according to OSHA 1910.29(b)(2). Have a minimum height of 2.5 inches (6 cm) when used around vehicle repair, service, or assembly pits. (Note: This product is seeing extensive use in Northern Virginia). Hispassion is to be a resource his clients can count on when loss control and risk management consulting is needed. There can be a lot of rules to follow, but knowing and understanding them is crucial to workplace safety.Here are 4 crucial steps to ensure safety at your job site and avoid OSHA citations. One stair rail system with handrail on each open side and one intermediate handrail located in the middle of the stair. Troy Russell 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. Toeboards Omitted ensure toeboards, that are a minimum of 4 in height and do not exceed a gap from the walking/working surface, are present around all open sides. Mr. B. J. Newton Openings in stair rails. Superior Steel, Inc. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. Strength criteria. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Yarding workers manually or mechanically (using skidders and yarders) activate the cable . Gabe Mariani is a railroader who has been writing for school and for pleasure for over 15 years. They must follow the regulations described below. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Handhold. 1910.29(b)(1) - A standard railing shall consist of a top rail, an intermediate rail, and posts, and shall have a vertical height of 42 inches, plus or minus 3 inches, above the working-walking surface. Figure D-13 - Combination Handrail and Stair Rail. Wire rope and/or cable as a method of perimeter protection for a building under construction. Chain shall be not less than 1/4 inch alloy steel. Guardrail height must be between 39 inches and 45 inches. The chain or cable shall be anchored at intervals not to exceed 100 feet. If you're in California, they require residential posts to be a minimum of 42 inches tall. Toeboard must be added where there is a hazard and continue along the working area that is exposed. Below is a quick reference guide for ensuring your facility is OSHA compliant. Standard stairmeans a fixed or permanently installed stairway. On multi-story structures, perimeter safety cables shall be installed at the final interior and exterior perimeters. 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