Techniques for Building an OSHA Compliant Guardrail Structure.

Abstract

In the construction industry, workers falling to a lower level has been the primary cause of fatalities according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries database. From 2006 to 2010, an average of 353 construction workers died annually as a result of falling to a lower level. An average of 126 workers (36%) died when falling from unguarded roof edges, and through roof and floor holes or skylights. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health evaluated the strength of job-built guardrail structures around an opening. The study focused on a 2'×4' opening typical of residential skylights. Nine full-time residential carpenters built guardrails for strength testing.