What are the minimum height requirements for guardrails on scaffolding?

The option stating that guardrails on scaffolding must be set at a minimum height of 36 inches and a maximum height of 42 inches, with the addition of a mid-rail, aligns with the safety standards established by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). Guardrails are designed to provide fall protection for workers on scaffolding, and the specified height range ensures that they are neither too low to be ineffective nor too high, which could complicate the workers' ability to utilize the scaffolding safely.

In addition to the height requirements, the presence of a mid-rail contributes significantly to overall safety by preventing small tools or materials from falling off and offering additional support and stability for workers on the platform. Therefore, these specifications are not arbitrary; they are grounded in practical considerations for worker safety.

Other options do not meet the established safety standards. For instance, a minimum height of 30 inches is insufficient for adequate fall protection, while a minimum of 48 inches exceeds the recommended maximum and may introduce other safety concerns. Adhering to the correct specifications helps to ensure a safer working environment for those using scaffolding.