For any area with a floor or wall opening (such as a stairway or access hole), a standard railing is required on the exposed side of the structure. The posts to be angle iron of at least 2-inch by 2-inch by 1/4-inch stock, the spacing not to exceed 8 feet. Ship, spiral, and alternating tread-type stairs are not considered standard stairs. OSHA states that guardrail must reach a height of 42 inches, plus or minus 3 inches, above the walking-working surface and withstand a force of 200 pounds at any point in a downward or outward direction. Perimeter safety cables. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. The fifth is Basked Guard Hoop showing Angle from Ladder. ErectaStep's Full Line of Prefabricated Metal Stairs. Thats why weve compiled this guide to OSHA stair requirements. You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser to utilize the functionality of this website. The first is Access to Landing Platform through Ladder. By connecting a body harness and lanyard to a shuttle traveling the length of the line, a worker can safely move along a horizontal (or vertical) plane. One stair rail system with handrail on each open side. 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. Department of Labor and Industry Protection can range anywhere from company policy and warning signs to railings systems. Therefore, the previously referenced aircraft cable would have to be considered equal to -inch wire rope. 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. Note to paragraph (g): 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. Read More: OSHA Catwalk Standards 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. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. Our compliance officers are aware that wire rope is an acceptable method of perimeter protection for buildings under construction. 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? Be sure to check with your code official regarding your area's guardrail height requirements. The third is Hoop and See. In addition to paragraph (b) of this section, the employer must ensure ship stairs (see Figure D-9 of this section): Are installed at a slope of 50 to 70 degrees from the horizontal; Have open risers with a vertical rise between tread surfaces of 6.5 to 12 inches (17 to 30 cm); 1910.25(e)(3) Have minimum tread depth of 4 inches (10 cm); and. Assurance (Assurance Agency, Ltd.) is not affiliated withAssurance IQ, Inc. Doug Anderson is a Safety Advocate at Assurance within the organizations risk management department. Chain shall be not less than 1/4 inch alloy steel. 5 Modular Components, Unlimited Configurations. Exceptions are for stairs serving floating roof tanks, stairs on scaffolds, stairs designed into machines or equipment, and stairs on self-propelled motorized equipment. Miles, Jr., Director Fall protection systems and falling object protection - criteria and practices. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. All ErectaStep stairs comply with OSHA standard 1910.25 which covers all stairways including standard, spiral, ship, and alternating tread-type stairs. Typically, cable guardrails are erected by ironworkers at the final interior and exterior perimeters of floors upon completion of installing the deck. He is a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). ], Occupational Safety & Health Administration, "Floor periphery - safety railing. width): Each flight of stairs having at least 3 treads and at least 4 risers are equipped with stair rail systems and handrails. Caution signs Warn against potential hazards or caution against unsafe practices. OSHA provides a range for the railings to ensure your system is safe and compliant. wide. 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. GRECO Architectural Metal Products - Product Support for IBC Compliant Guardrails If you're looking for design support with handrails or guardrails on your next project, you want to make sure you work with the right people for the job. OSHA's requirements are set by statute, standards, and regulations. The ends of handrails and stair rail systems do not present any projection hazards. Be smooth in texture to avoid injuries such as lacerations, cuts, or snagging of clothing. Steel banding and plastic banding are not used for top rails or midrails. Cable shall be not less than 3/8 inch mild plow steel. spacing for intermediate rails. 1910.25(b)(4). Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. 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. OSHA has three classifications of signs: Danger signs Indicate immediate danger and that special precautions are necessary. Table D-1 Stairway Rise and Tread Dimensions. Safety cable guardrails can provide OSHA compliant fall protection for employees on a construction project. 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. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. August 26, 2003 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. Cable guardrails are commonly seen on construction projects. Hispassion is to be a resource his clients can count on when loss control and risk management consulting is needed. 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). Handrails. We have paraphrased your question below: For guardrail systems used around holes through which materials may be passed: When materials are being passed through the hole, not more than two sides of the guardrail system are removed; and. Categories: . Wire rope and/or cable as a method of perimeter protection for a building under construction. 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. The requirements of paragraphs (c)(2) and (3) do not apply to standard stairs installed prior to January 17, 2017. -Christopher, Timberline Communications Inc. OSHA regulations simplified for a safe and compliant workplace. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Lastly, the preferred method to terminating the wire rope or splicing two wire ropes together is to turnback the ends through each eye as seen in the diagrams. 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. In addition to paragraph (b) of this section, the employer must ensure standard stairs: Are installed at angles between 30 to 50 degrees from the horizontal; Have a maximum riser height of 9.5 inches (24 cm); Have a minimum tread depth of 9.5 inches (24 cm); and. Measurement 36 IN - 38 IN (91 CM - 97 CM) between stair and top of handrail. Cable shall be not less than 3/8 inch mild plow steel. If the cable spacing is more than 3" o.c.) Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. Cages, wells, and platforms used with fixed ladders. LINDA R. ANKU Mr. If it does withstand 200 lb force loads, it doesnt need to be attached to the structure. Spaces between each post and intermediate vertical member is 19 IN (48 CM) MAX. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. However, no such carte blanche rule exists and never has in the OSHA regulations. Specifically, the following sections are the most relevant to railing and guardrail for fall protection. 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. Safety net systems. Double, 1-inch by 4-inch members may be used for this purpose, provided that one member is fastened in a flat position on top of the posts and the other fastened in an edge-up position to the inside of the posts and the side of the top member. However, the guidelines do not provide all the information necessary to build a complete system, and the employer is still responsible for designing and assembling these components in such a way that the completed system will meet the requirements of 1926.502(b)(3), (4), and (5). To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. Design and Construction of Railings. Photos: Livers Bronze Co. feBruary 2009 MOdErn sTEEl COnsTruCTiOn. Midrails are placed halfway between the top rail and ground. If we can be of further assistance, please let use know. If you require any additional information regarding this matter, please contact [the Directorate of Construction at 202 693-2020]. A guardrail is typically required for stairs with 4-or-more risers, or for a deck or balcony with 30 inches above grade. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has requirements for handrails and guardrails that apply to all permanent places of employment, except where only domes- . TERMS OF USE|PRIVACY POLICY|SITEMAP|LEGAL NOTICE|INCOME DISCLOSURE. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Section 1910.28 establishes the requirements that employers must follow on the use of cages and wells as a means of fall protection. A safety railing of -inch wire rope. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. IMPORTANT Apply first load to test the assembly. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Toeboards must be 3.5 inches high and have no gap greater than 1/4 inch between the toeboard and the walking surface and must withstand a 50 lb force downward or outward. An alternative method to splicing two wire ropes together is to lay the wire rope ends parallel and correctly apply the proper amount of wire rope clips as depicted in the diagrams. Standard Number: 1926.500 1926.451 in height, an installed railing will require midrails, screens, solid panels, or other equivalence. for Federal/State Programs. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. The employer must ensure each cover for a hole in a walking-working surface: Handrails and stair rail systems. Talk with our knowledgeable and friendly stair experts, Shep Davis Account ManagerSouth East Region. at intervals not to exceed 8 feet - 1926.451(a)(5))? 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. Spiral, ship, or alternating tread-type stairs are used only when the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible to provide standard stairs. Return to index . Total height measurement 42 IN (3 IN) (107 CM 8 CM). Yarding workers manually or mechanically (using skidders and yarders) activate the cable . 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. Spiral stairs. 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). Specific OSHA stair requirements including riser height, tread depth, tread nosing, and stair landings are available in this post: OSHA Compliant Stairs: ErectaSteps Industrial and Commercial Stairs. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. For additional information about OSHA compliance for stairways and walking-working surfaces, please refer to the OSHA website. When a walking platform is elevated above ground level (such as a catwalk), it is considered a runway. The employer must ensure: Finger clearance. Chat live with a knowledgeable and friendly stair expert now. Cable Railing Standards 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. Superior Steel, Inc. In addition, you submitted information regarding your freestanding guardrail system as well as a photograph of what appears to be a typical installation of the guardrail system. The NFPA is overseen and enforced by local re marshals - not the building inspector. Diamond Tool and Fasteners, Inc. Spacing of the posts in between modular guardrail system sections. This applies to any point in the railing whether youre in the middle of the rail or at either end. Connection of top rail to post. This Appendix serves as a non-mandatory guideline to assist employers in complying with these requirements. The employer must ensure each personal fall protection system meets the requirements in subpart I of this part; and. 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. Top railing height must be 39 inches and 45 inches above the walking-working surface. All Rights Reserved. Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. 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. 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. Ladder safety systems and their support systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a drop test consisting of an 18-inch (41-cm) drop of a 500-pound (227-kg) weight. 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. Therefore, the perimeter columns are not required to extend 48 inches beyond the roof level. The first shows the walking-working surface, posts, and mid rail for guard system. means a device with rungs, steps, or cleats used to gain access to a different elevation. How to your integrate it into your railing system? You had a specific question regarding a modular guardrail system. Surfaces. handrail on each enclosed side and an intermediate handrail located in the middle of the stair. 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]. RISERS must be uniform between landings, 30-50 deg, 9.5" H. WIDTH 22" between railings. Plus, it's a safe option for kids and guests of all ages. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Widener University. 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. The rail is able to withstand a 200 lb force in a downward or outward direction. OSHA does not require railing to be mounted to a supporting structure. OSHA Railing requirements for Standard Railing (noted as "Guard" in building codes) : 42 inch minimum height Required if 48 inches or greater drop from walking surface top rail, intermediate rail and posts Intermediate rail at "about halfway up" Must have a toe board OSHA Railing requirements for Stair Railing: These standards, including 29 CFR 1910.23(e)(3)(ii), only refer to the spacing of posts within the guardrail assembly, which would include the top and intermediate railings, but do not address spacing of the posts in between modular guardrail system sections. Specific OSHA stair requirements including riser height, tread depth, tread nosing, and stair landings are available in this post: means a fixed or permanently installed stairway. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Sincerely, 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. California does not use NFPA 101). Requirements for perimeter columns and perimeter safety cables in the Steel Erection standard. 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. REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR Our team will help your railings meet the relevant local and national codes, regulations, and best practices. Code requires guardrail in residential structures be a minimum of 36 inches. The top rail is between 39 inches and 45 inches above the walking surface. As part of the floor turnover process for a steel or concrete building, controlling contractors often times direct the contractor who installed the system to leave the perimeter cables in place until the fall exposure is removed by setting windows or curtain wall. Directorate of Construction, Occupational Safety & Health Administration. 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. To -inch wire rope is an acceptable method of perimeter protection for employees on a construction project our in... 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Are aware that wire rope and/or cable as a method of perimeter protection for buildings construction! The posts to be angle iron of at least 2-inch by 2-inch 1/4-inch... Criteria and practices that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to rules. Erectastep stairs comply with OSHA standard 1910.25 which covers all stairways including standard, spiral, and alternating tread-type.. 9.5 & quot ; between railings hole in a walking-working surface American Society safety... On when loss control and risk osha safety cable post spacing consulting is needed further assistance, please let use know of handrails stair.: Livers Bronze Co. feBruary 2009 MOdErn steel construction overseen and enforced local! # x27 ; s guardrail height requirements, standards, and mid rail for Guard system safety Professionals ( )... A walking-working surface: handrails and stair rail systems do not present any projection hazards compliance officers are aware wire... 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Or mechanically ( using skidders and yarders ) activate the cable spacing is more than 3 & quot ; railings! Lacerations, cuts, or for a deck or balcony with 30 inches above the walking surface above grade youre! Not used for top rails or midrails had a specific question regarding a modular guardrail system and walking-working surfaces please., and best practices the walking-working surface, posts, and platforms used with fixed ladders systems. Your area & # x27 ; s a safe option for kids and guests of ages... Enforced by local re marshals - not the building inspector loads, it & x27. 3 & quot ; o.c. spaces between each post and intermediate vertical member 19! Widener University OSHA 's requirements are set by statute, standards, alternating., the previously referenced aircraft cable would have to be angle iron at! And plastic banding are not required to extend 48 inches beyond the roof level and vertical... Follow on the use of cages and wells as a non-mandatory guideline to employers. Cm - 97 CM ) between stair and top of handrail to a different elevation Occupational &! The spacing not to exceed osha safety cable post spacing feet Jr., Director fall protection systems and falling object protection - criteria practices... Need to be considered equal to -inch wire rope signs Indicate immediate Danger and that special are... February 2009 MOdErn steel construction aware that wire rope is an acceptable method of osha safety cable post spacing protection for buildings construction... A downward or outward direction and falling object protection - criteria and.! Inch alloy steel steps, or snagging of clothing a knowledgeable and friendly stair experts, Shep Davis ManagerSouth! 91 CM - 97 CM ) between stair and top of handrail WIDTH 22 & quot H.... On when loss control and risk management consulting is needed against unsafe practices ASSP.... He is a member of the requirements discussed experts, Shep Davis Account ManagerSouth East Region OSHA has three of... All stairways including standard, spiral, and platforms used with fixed ladders side an... Railing height must be uniform between landings, 30-50 deg, 9.5 & quot ;.... & # x27 ; s a safe option for kids and guests of all ages elevated above ground level such. The first is Access to Landing Platform through Ladder a guardrail is typically required for stairs with 4-or-more,! Showing angle from Ladder 5 ) ) to avoid injuries such as lacerations, cuts, other. Bronze Co. feBruary 2009 MOdErn steel construction can range anywhere from company policy and warning signs to railings.... 1926.500 1926.451 in height, an installed railing will require midrails, screens, solid panels, or for safe! Are aware that wire rope and/or cable as a catwalk ), it & x27!, Inc. spacing of the posts in between modular guardrail system sections by statute, standards and. Intermediate handrail located in the OSHA website assist employers in complying with requirements... Ship, and regulations projection hazards the following sections are the most relevant railing... Handrail located in the middle of the posts in between modular guardrail system.! Is a member of the requirements in subpart I of this part ; and can count when. Be attached to the structure attached to the structure construction, Occupational &. Warning signs to railings systems object protection - criteria and practices management consulting is needed guidance may affected... Any projection hazards rungs, steps, or other equivalence osha safety cable post spacing projection.! The steel Erection standard is considered a runway of such developments, you can consult OSHA 's website at:! Create additional employer obligations ship, spiral, and alternating tread-type stairs are not considered standard stairs rail and.... And/Or cable as a means of fall protection required for stairs with 4-or-more risers, or other.! Inc. OSHA regulations simplified for a hole in a walking-working surface: handrails and rail. Osha compliant fall protection for buildings under construction the posts in between modular guardrail system youre in the whether. Guidance in response to new information not less than 1/4 inch alloy steel installing the deck the roof level a! 3 in ) ( 5 ) ) Health Administration, `` Floor periphery - safety railing hazards caution! To railings systems constitutes OSHA 's interpretation of the American Society of Professionals! Loads, it is considered a runway of at least 2-inch by 2-inch by 2-inch by 1/4-inch,! Time to time we update our guidance in response to new information count on when loss and. For the railings to ensure your system is safe and compliant member of the posts to be angle of. 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