OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewFocus Four HazardsMedium
A worker is setting up a scaffold for painting a building façade. The scaffold's working platform is 12 feet above the ground. Which of the following fall protection measures is required for workers on this scaffold?
- AA personal fall arrest system is required.
- BFall protection is not required because the height is less than 15 feet.
- CGuardrails are required on all open sides and ends.
- DA safety net must be installed below the scaffold.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Guardrails are required on all open sides and ends.
OSHA regulations (1926.451(g)(1)) state that each employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet above a lower level shall be protected from falling by guardrails or a personal fall arrest system. For most scaffolds, guardrails are the primary and preferred method of fall protection.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While a PFAS is an option, guardrails are typically the primary and often simpler method for scaffolds.
- B. Fall protection is required for scaffolds over 10 feet, not 15 feet.
- D. Safety nets are an alternative but not the primary or universally required method for typical scaffolds.
Scaffold Fall Protection (Over 10 ft)
For scaffolds with a working platform more than 10 feet above a lower level, OSHA requires fall protection, typically in the form of guardrails on all open sides and ends, or a personal fall arrest system.
- The 10-foot rule is specific to scaffolds, differing from other fall protection thresholds.
- Guardrails must meet specific height and strength requirements.
- Fall protection is a 'Focus Four Hazard' (Falls).
Memory trick: Build Strong, Guard High, Inspect Daily.