OSHA Guard Rail Setup Regulations
OSHA regulations 1926.502(b)(3) state "Guardrail systems shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied within 2 inches (5.1 cm) of the top edge, in any outward or downward direction at any point along the top edge."
The picture to the left shows the minimum configuration required to meet OSHA regulations 1910.23 and 1926.502 for fall protection. Just configuring rail in a straight line will not meet the minimum requirements. You must have at least one 5 foot outrigger on each end of the line to meet the minimum requirements as outlined by OSHA.
* The picture shows the optional toeboard that is required under regulation 1910.23.
The manufacturer’s requirements for proper setup of the Railguard 200 safety guard rail system:
(Read the manufacturer’s instruction manual before installing and using this safety guard rail system.)
- One guard rail system includes a rail, a base, and two quick pins.
- You can hook as many systems together in a straight line as you need to protect the edge. Standard length systems are 5 feet, 7 feet six inches and 10 feet. Systems can be built to custom lengths if needed.
- On each end of the run of safety guard rail systems, you will install a 5 foot outrigger guard rail system 90° away from the protected edge.
- Connect the rail to the base on each end with the quick pins. It is required to install a toeboard, as shown in the above photo, if there is any danger of knocking materials off the elevated area down to an area where injury could occur.
