OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewFocus Four HazardsHard
A crew is performing demolition work on a multi-story building. As large sections of concrete are removed, workers are exposed to open-sided floors that are 15 feet above the ground. Which of the following fall protection methods is most appropriate and required by OSHA for these exposed edges?
- ASafety nets placed 5 feet below the working level.
- BGuardrail systems installed along the open-sided floor.
- CWarning line systems indicating the edge of the floor.
- DPersonal fall arrest systems with a 10-foot lanyard.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Guardrail systems installed along the open-sided floor.
For open-sided floors and platforms 6 feet or more above a lower level, OSHA requires guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems. Guardrail systems are generally the preferred and most appropriate primary protection for such edges, providing passive protection to all workers in the area without requiring individual action.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Safety nets are an acceptable form of fall protection, but guardrails are often preferred as a primary solution for open-sided floors.
- C. Warning lines are generally used for roofing work and do not provide sufficient protection for open-sided floors at this height.
- D. While personal fall arrest systems are acceptable, a 10-foot lanyard could result in a significant fall distance (10 ft + worker's height + deceleration distance), potentially allowing contact with the lower level from 15 ft, and it's an active system requiring individual use.
Open-Sided Floor Fall Protection
OSHA requires fall protection for open-sided floors and platforms 6 feet or more above a lower level, typically through guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems.
- Guardrails are a preferred passive protection method.
- The protection must be in place before work begins near the edge.
- Height threshold for general construction is 6 feet.
Memory trick: Guardrails first, nets second, arrest if you must!