Figure D-13 - Combination Handrail and Stair Rail. Metal Stairs that save time, money and eliminate custom fabrication. How to your integrate it into your railing system? 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. These safety standards cover all types of guardrails and have specific regulations for their construction and use. Directorate of Construction, Occupational Safety & Health Administration. 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. The employer must ensure: 1910.25(b)(1) Handrails, stair rail systems, and guardrail systems are provided in accordance with 1910.28; 1910.25(b)(2) Vertical clearance above any stair tread to any overhead obstruction is at least 6 feet, 8 inches (203 cm), as measured from the leading edge of the tread. 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. 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. 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. The section of the OSHA code that specifies most of the primary guardrail requirements and directly relates to safety railing is 1910.29. There is at least one 3/16-inch aircraft cable (Galvanized and tinned aircraft cord and strand Construction 1x19 - Nominal Breaking Strength 4700 pounds) that has a greater nominal breaking strength than does at least one type of -inch wire rope (Iron Galvanized Running Rope - Construction 6x12 - Nominal Breaking Strength 4560 pounds). Some areas require taller guardrail. (3) Wood top railings shall be smooth and of 2-inch by 4-inch or larger material. It is a common misconception that the worker is safe and in compliance as long as a distance of 6 ft is maintained from an unprotected edge. 1910.29(j) Personal fall protection systems. Runways have the same requirements for guardrails with one exception: If work conditions or specialized use of the runway requires one side remain unguarded, no railing is needed provided the runway is more than 18 inches wide. ADA Photos & Videos Browse our gallery of ADA compliant handrails to gain inspiration and ideas for your own ADA projects. Assistant Regional Administrator They must follow the regulations described below. Warning lines are to be supported so the lowest point of the sag is no less than 34 inches and no more than 39 inches from the walking/working surface. Toeboard must be added where there is a hazard and continue along the working area that is exposed. The chain or cable shall be equipped with flagging or some other means of increasing their visibility. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Dear Mr. Dillon: Winding stairways may be used on tanks and similar round structures when the diameter of the tank or structure is at least 5 feet (1.5 m). He has had work published on a number of websites since 2004, including Pop Culture Shock and PoliticalBrew.com. Note to paragraph (b) of this section: (1) For wood railings: Wood components shall be minimum 1500 lb-ft/in (2) fiber (stress grade) construction grade lumber; the posts shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber spaced not more than 8 feet (2.4 m) apart on centers; the top rail shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber, the intermediate rail shall be at Another option is to keep a cable puller and wire rope grip attachment handy in order to tighten cable guardrails easily. OSHA provides a range for the railings to ensure your system is safe and compliant. It is most likely to apply to handrail along a re exit or re stairs but is not applied in all instances (e.g. The perimeter of the designated area is delineated with a warning line consisting of a rope, wire, tape, or chain that meets the requirements of paragraphs (d)(2) and (3) of this section. [59 FR 40743, Aug. 9, 1994; 60 FR 5131, Jan. 26, 1995], Occupational Safety & Health Administration, Guardrail Systems - Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying with 1926.502(b), Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance, 1926 Subpart M App B - Guardrail Systems - Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying with 1926.502(b). The requirements of paragraphs (c)(2) and (3) do not apply to standard stairs installed prior to January 17, 2017. Handrails are not less than 30 inches (76 cm) and not more than 38 inches (97 cm), as measured from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the handrail (see Figure D-12 of this section). Guardrail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied in a downward or outward direction within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge, at any point along the top rail. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Philadelphia, PA 19146-3639. in height, an installed railing will require midrails, screens, solid panels, or other equivalence. This Appendix serves as a non-mandatory guideline to assist employers in complying with these requirements. However, cast-in-place concrete structures may transition from wood guard rails to cable guardrails installed by carpenters. All lumber dimensions are nominal sizes as provided by the American Softwood Lumber Standards, dated January 1970. The chain or cable shall be anchored at intervals not to exceed 100 feet. Note to paragraph (g): The criteria and practices requirements for guardrail systems on scaffolds are contained in 29 CFR part 1926, subpart L. Figure D-11 -- Guard Rail Systems. The top rail of the stair rail system meets the other handrail requirements in paragraph (f) of this section. One Stair rail system with handrail on open side and one handrail on enclosed side. Grab handles. 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. 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- . 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. The rail is able to withstand a 200 lb force in a downward or outward direction. 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. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. ErectaStep's Full Line of Prefabricated Metal Stairs. Spiral stairs. 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. REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR The standard, as written, could be enforced so that no deflection is permitted. Requirements for perimeter columns and perimeter safety cables in the Steel Erection standard. Below is a quick reference guide for ensuring your facility is OSHA compliant. The employer must ensure: Platforms used with fixed ladders provide a horizontal surface of at least 24 inches by 30 inches (61 cm by 76 cm). Its thin lines keep your views open. One stair rail system with handrail on open side, one handrail on enclosed side, and one intermediate handrail located in the middle of the stair. Exception to paragraphs (c)(2) and (3) of this section. Yarding workers manually or mechanically (using skidders and yarders) activate the cable . Top rails and midrails are at least 0.25-inches (0.6 cm) in diameter or in thickness. Other equivalent intermediate members (such as additional midrails and architectural panels) are installed so that the openings are not more than 19 inches (48 cm) wide. Mr. Ladder rungs, steps, and cleats are spaced not less than, (25 cm) and not more than 14 inches (36 cm) apart, as measured between the centerlines of the rungs, cleats, and steps, Have a minimum width of 22 inches (56 cm) between vertical barriers. Find out more about the general requirements for toeboard, when is it required? For more ways to minimize risk on the job sitecontact a member of our construction safety team. If posts are spaced more than 8-feet on center, it will no longer be OSHA compliant. Be smooth in texture to avoid injuries such as lacerations, cuts, or snagging of clothing. You can also contact us by mail at the above office, Room N3468, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210, although there will be a delay in our receiving correspondence by mail. The tensioning device shall have a breaking strength of not less than 10,000 pounds. Its important to contact an expert to fully understand what you need or might not need. Assurance (Assurance Agency, Ltd.) is not affiliated withAssurance IQ, Inc. Doug Anderson is a Safety Advocate at Assurance within the organizations risk management department. Dear Mr. Russell: (2) The wire rope shall be free of sharp edges, burrs, or projections which may be a hazard. 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. Sincerely, Doug graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Safety Management. Mr. B. J. Newton Our team will help your railings meet the relevant local and national codes, regulations, and best practices. Spaces between each post and intermediate vertical member is 19 IN (48 CM) MAX. Richmond, Virginia 23241 OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. 1910.25(b)(4). 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). When mobile mechanical equipment is used to perform work that is both temporary and infrequent in a designated area, the employer must ensure the warning line is erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the unprotected side or edge that is parallel to the direction in which the mechanical equipment is operated, and not less than 10 feet (3 m) from the unprotected side or edge that is perpendicular to the direction in which the mechanical equipment is operated. Safety Director Outdoor advertising. This is in response to your letter of June 29, concerning the acceptability of wire rope and/or cable as a method of perimeter protection for a building under construction. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of only the requirements discussed and may not be applicable to any question not delineated in your original correspondence. Designing an OSHA compliant railing system is equally important; post-spacing, material choice, finish, toeboard, and gates are all things to consider when designing your guardrail. Figure D-13 - Combination Handrail and Stair Rail. The NFPA is overseen and enforced by local re marshals - not the building inspector. Designing an OSHA compliant railing system is equally important; post-spacing, material choice, finish, toeboard, and gates are all things to consider when designing your guardrail. It is designed to be used anywhere a cable must terminate. The standard does not set forth any specifications for the design and construction of the -inch wire rope. 1910.29 (f) Handrails and stair rail systems. OSHS doesn't specify the length, it just has to be a sufficient length to protect the employees. The top rail is between 39 inches and 45 inches above the walking surface. 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: Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Strength criteria. Total height measurement 42 IN (3 IN) (107 CM 8 CM). Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. So no matter what you need from help with OSHA compliance to learning how our 3D configurator can give you instant (and accurate) drawings and quotes our experienced team will make sure you get it. If we can be of further assistance, please let use know. Diversified Fall Protection a complete turnkey provider of OSHA compliant horizontal lifeline systems. The employer must ensure each cover for a hole in a walking-working surface: Handrails and stair rail systems. (1) For wood railings: Wood components shall be minimum 1500 lb-ft/in(2) fiber (stress grade) construction grade lumber; the posts shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber spaced not more than 8 feet (2.4 m) apart on centers; the top rail shall be at least 2-inch by 4-inch (5 cm x 10 cm) lumber, the intermediate rail shall be at least 1-inch by 6-inch (2.5 cm x 15 cm) lumber. Laddermeans a device with rungs, steps, or cleats used to gain access to a different elevation. OSHA1910.25covers standards for all stairways (including a standard, spiral, ship, and alternating tread-type stairs). GENERAL stairs 4 H or w/3 treads and 4 risers require a stair rail/stair rail system, TREADS must support 1,000 lb, minimum depth 9.5, RISERS must be uniform between landings, 30-50 deg, 9.5 H, RAILINGS open-sided stairs < 44 require 1 stair rail/side; open-sided stairs > 44 require 1 stair rail and 1 separate handrail/side, HEIGHT CLEARANCE minimum 66 clearance from nose of tread to overhead obstruction, SHIP STAIRS only usable where standard stairs are impractical, 50-70 deg, rise 6.5-11, tread 4, width 18, GENERAL a platform or runway higher than 4 requires guardrails, no substitution (i.e., no chains or other barriers), PLATFORMS must be width of stairs and 30 deep, DOOR CLEARANCE 22 from edge of open door to edge of platform. Fall protection systems and falling object protection - criteria and practices. Railing must not cause additional hazards; ensure the ends of the top rails and midrails do not hang over the ending or terminal posts if there is a chance someone could walk into it. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. The second is side-step Ladder, Access lateral from Ladder. Answer: Section 1926.756(e) states: 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. To examine some of the common myths and misconceptions, this article focuses on OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D, Walking-Working . These toeboards shall be secured in place as required by the Standards. -Christopher, Timberline Communications Inc. OSHA regulations simplified for a safe and compliant workplace. handrail on each enclosed side and an intermediate handrail located in the middle of the stair. You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser to utilize the functionality of this website. Depicts a set of stairs and combination handrail and stair rail installed. Learn the Differences Between IBC and OSHA Stairs? 5 Modular Components, Unlimited Configurations. The employer must ensure: Finger clearance. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Stainless steel cable railing is easy to clean and maintain over time. Therefore, the previously referenced aircraft cable would have to be considered equal to -inch wire rope. We're here to help! Intermediate vertical members, such as balusters cannot be more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart. Spiral, ship, or alternating tread-type stairs are used only when the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible to provide standard stairs. OSHA deems any change in elevation of 48 inches or more to be a fall hazard requiring a form of fall protection in walking-working areas. Is erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge for work that is both temporary and infrequent, or not less than 15 feet (4.6 m) for other work. Caution signs Warn against potential hazards or caution against unsafe practices. System Not Properly Terminated common issues include wire rope clips installed backwards, not enough wire rope clips, and the cables are improperly spliced. This paragraph (h) applies only to employers engaged in outdoor advertising operations (see 1910.28(b)(10)). 205 North Fourth Street Manila or synthetic rope used for top rails or midrails are inspected as necessary to ensure that the rope continues to meet the strength requirements in paragraphs (b)(3) and (5) of this section. Cable guardrails are commonly seen on construction projects. 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. When guardrail systems are used around holes that serve as points of access (such as ladderways), the guardrail system opening: Has a self-closing gate that slides or swings away from the hole, and is equipped with a top rail and midrail or equivalent intermediate member that meets the requirements in paragraph (b) of this section; or. 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. osha safety cable post spacing; osha safety cable post spacing. Spacing of the posts in between modular guardrail system sections. Sincerely, See OSHA Directive CPL 02-01-034 "Inspection policy and procedures for OSHA's steel erection standards for construction" published on 3/22/2002 for the current policy on OSHA's steel erection standards (1926 Subpart R) for construction. 28 abril, 2022. RAILINGS open-sided stairs < 44" require 1 stair rail/side; open-sided stairs > 44" require 1 stair rail and 1 separate handrail/side. Read More: OSHA Catwalk Standards. Safety net systems. Top railing height must be 39 inches and 45 inches above the walking-working surface. 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. This applies to any point in the railing whether youre in the middle of the rail or at either end. The employers must ensure toeboards used for falling object protection: Are erected along the exposed edge of the overhead walking-working surface for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below. The employer must ensure canopies used for falling object protection are strong enough to prevent collapse and to prevent penetration by falling objects. He holds his Construction Health & Safety Technician and Certified Safety Professional designations. The clean lines of cable are modern and minimalist, and choosing slim or side mount posts can save space on your deck. There should be at least two clips installed for wire rope that is 3/8 in diameter. If the railing dips below 39 inches, due to the force, the railing is not OSHA compliant. Be sure to check with your code official regarding your area's guardrail height requirements. August 26, 2003 ErectaSteps line of industrial modular metal stairs and industrial maintenance access platforms feature modular, lightweight metal stair components that are as easy to reconfigure as they are to assemble. Cal-OSHA is notorious for having more stringent requirements. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Read More: OSHA Catwalk Standards The minimum clearance between handrails and any other object is 2.25 inches (5.7 cm). Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. Talk to an Expert 1910.29(i)(6) 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. Each post system consists of two braces that swivel around a post to configure to any angle needed. The employer must ensure: Personal fall protection systems. Safety cable guardrails can provide OSHA compliant fall protection for employees on a construction project. Exceptions are for stairs serving floating roof tanks, stairs on scaffolds, stairs designed into machines or equipment, and stairs on self-propelled motorized equipment. Perimeter safety cables. 1910.29(f)(3) - Surfaces. Toeboards must be solid and run the entire length where there's potential for objects to fall to the lower level. [Correction 6/20/2005. 6. Superior Steel, Inc. Approximately halfway between this height and the floor, there must be an intermediate rail that can withstand 150 pounds of force. 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. At this point, the controlling contractor inspects and accepts control of the fall protection if it meets the following criteria set forth by OSHA 1926 Subpart M regulations: It is highly recommended anyone who installs or maintains safety cables be trained and authorized. It is important that the railing should not only protect the employee from a fall, but it cannot pose any other hazards. Ladder Access Inadequate provide a gap with a gate between posts where employees can easily climb on/off ladders or offset the opening so employees cannot walk directly through the gap. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Current ErectaStep tread depth (i.e. James G. Maddux, Director Guardrail height must be between 39 inches and 45 inches. Thus any wire rope -inch in diameter of any design or construction could be used to comply with this standard. Handrails and the top rails of stair rail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied in any downward or outward direction within 2 inches (5 cm) of any point along the top edge of the rail. Question: If an employer utilizes a freestanding modular guardrail system, which the manufacturer claims meets OSHA's force/strength requirements, but which is designed such that the main posts' weighted bases allow the main posts to be spaced 6" apart, would this gap be a violation of OSHA's guard rail standards? 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). Do the perimeter columns have to extend beyond the roof level when the building has topped out? Per OSHA 1910.28, railings installed 60 days before April 10, 1990, can be grandfathered into OSHA compliance at a minimum of 36 inches in height from the working-walking surface. OSHA states that railing must withstand a force of 200 lb at any point along the railing. Are solid or do not have any opening that exceeds 1 inch (3 cm) at its greatest dimension. One of ErectaSteps components is bolt on aluminum ladders. Toeboards must be solid and not have a gap of more than 1/4 inch at the bottom. One stair rail system with handrail on each open side. Openings in stair rails. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards), OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance. Box 12064 Cable shall be not less than 3/8 inch mild plow steel. 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. Typically, cable guardrails are erected by ironworkers at the final interior and exterior perimeters of floors upon completion of installing the deck. Section 1910.28 establishes the requirements that employers must follow on the use of cages and wells as a means of fall protection. Are perimeter safety cables required in this situation under 1926.760(a)(2)? However, no such carte blanche rule exists and never has in the OSHA regulations. or the cable horizontal span is too great, if the intermediate posts spaced too far apart (more than 42" of horizontal distance o.c. 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. However that would be contrary to guidance relating to wire rope used for guardrails contained in directives (STD 3-10.3), memoranda and proposed standards (Fall Protection In Construction.) Handhold. Related Resources A guardrail is typically required for stairs with 4-or-more risers, or for a deck or balcony with 30 inches above grade. Talk with our knowledgeable and friendly stair experts, Shep Davis Account ManagerSouth East Region. An employer may use these guidelines as a starting point for designing guardrail systems. Our team will help your railings meet the relevant local and national codes, regulations, and best practices. 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. Section 1926.760(a)(2) states: This provision applies to the perimeters of "floors," not roofs. 2800 Grays Ferry Avenue Our compliance officers are aware that wire rope is an acceptable method of perimeter protection for buildings under construction. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. John B. 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. Perimeters of floors upon completion of installing the deck other handrail requirements in paragraph ( h applies. 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