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. OSHA will deem those stairs in compliance if they meet the dimension requirements specified in Table D-1 of this section or they use a combination that achieves the angle requirements of paragraph (c)(1) of this section. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Riser height 9.5 inches (24cm) 1910.25(d)(2) Stairwidth a minimum of 22 inches (55 cm) 1910.25(c)(4) Tread depth of a minimum of 9.5 inches (24 cm) 1910.25(c)(3) Stair landings at least the width of the stair. Toeboards are required whenever there is a possibility of objects falling to a lower level and injuring workers below. However, cast-in-place concrete structures may transition from wood guard rails to cable guardrails installed by carpenters. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. 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. 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 ladder should be placed 7 IN (18 CM) Min on Center and 15 IN (38 CM) MIN from either left or right side with a total space of 27 IN-30 IN (69 CM-76 CM) for well opening, Figure D-15 -- Example of General Construction of Cages. (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. It is important that the railing should not only protect the employee from a fall, but it cannot pose any other hazards. Approximately halfway between this height and the floor, there must be an intermediate rail that can withstand 150 pounds of force. 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. Safety Director This provision applies to the perimeters of "floors," not roofs. 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. Response: No; OSHA's construction standards related to guardrail systems (Subpart M - Fall Protection, specifically 29 CFR 1926.502) do not directly address the spacing of posts in between sections of a freestanding modular guardrail system. 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. He holds his Construction Health & Safety Technician and Certified Safety Professional designations. Where tools, equipment, or materials are piled higher than the top of the toeboard, paneling or screening is installed from the toeboard to the midrail of the guardrail system and for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below. These toeboards shall be secured in place as required by the Standards. Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. 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. Richmond, Virginia 23241 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. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. The customer service was great. Ship, spiral, and alternating tread-type stairs are not considered standard stairs. Steel banding and plastic banding are not used for top rails or midrails. Commonwealth of Virginia This Appendix serves as a non-mandatory guideline to assist employers in complying with these requirements. Spiral stairs. Contact us for expert assistance with your fall arrest, fall restraint and fall protection requirements System Types "L" and "T" Column Style Lifelines View "L" and "T" Column Style Lifelines Continuous Pass Through Systems Photos: Livers Bronze Co. feBruary 2009 MOdErn sTEEl COnsTruCTiOn. Guardrail systems. These anchors shall be of sufficient strength to support the imposed loads without deflection. The most common issues observed while performing safety audits on cable guardrails include: Excessive Deflection or Sagging incorporate turnbuckles to allow for easy tightening of the cable. When guardrail systems are used around holes, they are installed on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole. When the employer uses a designated area, the employer must ensure: Employees remain within the designated area while work operations are underway; and. Talk to an Expert There should be at least two clips installed for wire rope that is 3/8 in diameter. OSHA does not require railing to be mounted to a supporting structure. width): Each flight of stairs having at least 3 treads and at least 4 risers are equipped with stair rail systems and handrails. Knoxville, Tennessee 37914 In addition to paragraph (b) of this section, the employer must ensure spiral stairs: Have a minimum clear width of 26 inches (66 cm); Have a minimum headroom above spiral stair treads of at least 6 feet, 6 inches (2 m), measured from the leading edge of the tread; Have a minimum tread depth of 7.5 inches (19 cm), measured at a point 12 inches (30 cm) from the narrower edge; Ship stairs. Spaces between each post and intermediate vertical member is 19 IN (48 CM) MAX. 1910.29(b)(9) - Top rails and mid-rails must be at least 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) in diameter or thickness. Perimeter safety cables. August 26, 2003 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. Approximately halfway between this height and the floor, there must be an intermediate rail that can withstand 150 pounds of force. Grab handles. Be smooth in texture to avoid injuries such as lacerations, cuts, or snagging of clothing. For more ways to minimize risk on the job site contact a member of our construction safety team. The tensioning device shall have a breaking strength of not less than 10,000 pounds. 1910.29(k)(1) - A standard toeboard shall be 3 1/2 inches in vertical height from the top edge to the bottom level of the floor, platform, runway, or ramp. 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. Dear Mr. Russell: Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. You stated that the freestanding guardrail system meets the 200 pound (890 N) force requirements required by 29 CFR 1926.502(b)(3) and 1910.23(e)(3)(iv) and that you have twice had engineering firms conduct calculations and verify compliance. In addition to paragraph (b) of this section, the employer must ensure alternating tread-type stairs: 1910.25(f)(1) Have a series of treads installed at a slope of 50 to 70 degrees from the horizontal; 1910.25(f)(2) Have a distance between handrails of 17 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm); Have a minimum tread depth of 8.5 inches (22 cm); and. OSHA specifies that red, black and white colors are to be used for danger signs. Depicts two figures showing two types of Guard Rail Systems. 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. The NFPA is overseen and enforced by local re marshals - not the building inspector. 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. Table D-1 Stairway Rise and Tread Dimensions. Standard stairs. The top rail is between 39 inches and 45 inches above the walking surface. P.O. (3) Wood top railings shall be smooth and of 2-inch by 4-inch or larger material. OSHA's requirements for guardrail can be found on the OSHA website. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Assistant Regional Administrator However, they must be continuously inspected and maintained to ensure compliance with OSHA 1926 Subpart M standards. Typically, cable guardrails are erected by ironworkers at the final interior and exterior perimeters of floors upon completion of installing the deck. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Spiral, ship, or alternating tread-type stairs are used only when the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible to provide standard 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. 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. All Rights Reserved. Components for which no specific guidelines are given in this Appendix (e.g., joints, base connections, components made with other materials, and components with other dimensions) must also be designed and constructed in such a way that the completed system meets the requirements of 1926.502. The chain or cable shall be anchored at intervals not to exceed 100 feet. Identifying your fall hazards is just one part of ensuring a safe work environment, it's also important to understand OSHA railing requirements to ensure your facility is compliant. Learn the Differences Between IBC and OSHA Stairs? OSHA requires railing to be .25-inches (.6 cm) in diameter or thickness. The requirements of paragraphs (c)(2) and (3) do not apply to standard stairs installed prior to January 17, 2017. From time to time, letters are affected when the Agency updates a standard, a legal decision impacts a standard, or changes in technology affect the interpretation. Directorate of Construction, Occupational Safety & Health Administration. 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. A guardrail is typically required for stairs with 4-or-more risers, or for a deck or balcony with 30 inches above grade. 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. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. 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. Section 1926.760(a)(2) states: This provision applies to the perimeters of "floors," not roofs. Therefore, the perimeter columns are not required to extend 48 inches beyond the roof level. 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. 1910.25(e)(4) Have a minimum tread width of 18 inches (46 cm). 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. All ErectaStep stairs comply with OSHA standard 1910.25 which covers all stairways including standard, spiral, ship, and alternating tread-type stairs. 1910.25(f) Alternating tread-type stairs. Dear Mr. Dillon: The top edge height may exceed 45 inches (114 cm), provided the guardrail system meets all other criteria of paragraph (b) of this section (see Figure D-11 of this section). 205 North Fourth Street Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Philadelphia, PA 19146-3639. ADA Photos & Videos Browse our gallery of ADA compliant handrails to gain inspiration and ideas for your own ADA projects. The standard reads as follows: The questions and responses to them are as follows: Question: Under 1926.756(e)(1), perimeter columns are required to extend at least 48 inches above the finished floor. 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. Doug graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Safety Management. If you require any additional information regarding this matter, please contact [the Directorate of Construction at 202 693-2020]. Mr. 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). Stainless steel cable railing is easy to clean and maintain over time. 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: Its important to contact an expert to fully understand what you need or might not need. (2) For pipe railings: posts, top rails, and intermediate railings shall be at least one and one-half inches nominal diameter (schedule 40 pipe) with posts spaced not more than 8 feet (2.4 m) apart on centers. The clean lines of cable are modern and minimalist, and choosing slim or side mount posts can save space on your deck. The height of stair rail systems meets the following: (76 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail; and, SafeRack / ErectaStep / PerfectaStep / RollaStep, ErectaStep also has a line of commercial stairs. System Not Properly Terminated common issues include wire rope clips installed backwards, not enough wire rope clips, and the cables are improperly spliced. REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Superior Steel, Inc. The Corner Post System comes with pre-set cable tie-offs to meet OSHA's required 42" top rail and 21" mid rail heights, but can be adjusted when floor thickness changes. Cages and wells installed on fixed ladders are designed, constructed, and maintained to permit easy access to, and egress from, the ladder that they enclose (see Figures D-14 and D-15 of this section); Cages and wells are continuous throughout the length of the fixed ladder, except for access, egress, and other transfer points; Cages and wells are designed, constructed, and maintained to contain employees in the event of a fall, and to direct them to a lower landing; and. 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- . Useful across all industries, this information will help you determine what is needed to ensure the safety of your employees and the productivity of your facility. Measurement 36 IN - 38 IN (91 CM - 97 CM) between stair and top of handrail. Our compliance officers are aware that wire rope is an acceptable method of perimeter protection for buildings under construction. The chain or cable shall be anchored at intervals not to exceed 100 feet. Are perimeter safety cables required in this situation under 1926.760(a)(2)? Territory Safety Coordinator 1910.25(b)(5)(ii) Less than 22 inches (56 cm) for platforms installed on or after January 17, 2017 (see Figure D-7 of this section); 1910.25(b)(6) Each stair can support at least five times the normal anticipated live load, but never less than a concentrated load of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) applied at any point; 1910.25(b)(7) Standard stairs are used to provide access from one walking-working surface to another when operations necessitate regular and routine travel between levels, including access to operating platforms for equipment. Figure D-13 - Combination Handrail and Stair Rail. 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. Have open risers if the tread depth is less than 9.5 inches (24 cm); Have a minimum tread width of 7 inches (18 cm), measured at the leading edge of the tread (i.e., nosing). Diamond Tool and Fasteners, Inc. 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. If you require any additional information regarding this matter, please contact [ directorate! Chain or cable shall be smooth and of 2-inch by 4-inch or larger material standards! By 4-inch or larger material surface, posts, and choosing slim or side mount can... Regional Administrator osha requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations states: this provision applies the... 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Shall have a minimum tread width of 18 inches ( 46 CM ) stair... At 202 693-2020 ] the railing should not only protect the employee a. Requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they can not pose any other hazards,! Update our guidance in response to new information, black and white colors are to used... And exterior perimeters of `` floors, '' not roofs time we update our guidance in response new..., black and white colors are to be.25-inches (.6 CM ) between stair and of. Time we update our guidance in response to new information a member of our Construction safety.. Rope is an acceptable method of perimeter protection for buildings under Construction to ensure compliance with osha standard which... Rails to cable guardrails installed by carpenters danger signs 4-inch or larger material may from! The directorate of Construction at 202 693-2020 ] required in this situation under 1926.760 ( a ) ( )!
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