Jun. 13, 2025
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has specific requirements for temporary guardrails to protect workers from falls in construction and general industry settings. These are primarily found in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M (for construction) and 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D (for general industry).
Here are the key OSHA requirements for temporary guardrails:
Construction Industry (29 CFR 1926.502(b))
Guardrail Systems Must:
1.Height:
Top edge must be 42 inches ± 3 inches above the walking/working level.
2.Midrail:
Installed midway between the top edge and the walking surface.
3.Strength:
Top rail must withstand 200 pounds of force in any outward or downward direction.
Midrails, screens, mesh, and intermediate members must withstand 150 pounds.
4.Materials:
No rough or jagged edges.
If wire rope is used:
Must be flagged at 6-foot intervals with high-visibility material.
Cannot deflect below 39 inches when the required force is applied.
5.Openings:
Guardrails must prevent a 19-inch or greater opening between members.
6.Toe Boards (if required):
Minimum 3.5 inches in height.
Clearance from floor: no more than 0.25 inches.
General Industry (29 CFR 1910.29(b))
Guardrails Must:
1.Height:
Top rail height: 42 inches ± 3 inches above the walking-working surface.
2.Strength:
Top rail must withstand at least 200 pounds of force.
Midrail must withstand 150 pounds.
3.Surfaces:
Smooth to prevent injury or snagging of clothing.
4.Rail Dimensions:
If using wire rope, it must be flagged every 6 feet with high-visibility material.
Common Applications of Temporary Guardrails
Roof edges
Floor openings
Scaffolding platforms
Open-sided walkways
Temporary balconies or mezzanines
