The top edge height range of the top rails of a guardrail system around scaffolding placed into service in 2001 shall be within what range?

The top edge height range of the top rails of a guardrail system around scaffolding placed into service in 2001 shall be within what range?

• A. 38 inches to 45 inches
• B. 36 inches to 45 inches
• C. 38 inches to 42 inches
• D. 36 inches to 42 inches

Answer: (D)

Guardrail height is set to protect a worker from falling while also leaving enough space to work. The top edge of the guardrail is measured from the platform surface. For scaffolding placed into service in 2001, the required range for that top edge is 36 to 42 inches. This 3 to 3.5 feet range balances effective fall protection with workable clearances on typical scaffold setups from that era. If a top rail sits below 36 inches or above 42 inches on scaffolding from that time, it wouldn't meet the 2001 specification. (Note: later codes may allow different heights, but this question uses the 2001 standard.)

Guardrail height is set to protect a worker from falling while also leaving enough space to work. The top edge of the guardrail is measured from the platform surface. For scaffolding placed into service in 2001, the required range for that top edge is 36 to 42 inches. This 3 to 3.5 feet range balances effective fall protection with workable clearances on typical scaffold setups from that era. If a top rail sits below 36 inches or above 42 inches on scaffolding from that time, it wouldn't meet the 2001 specification. (Note: later codes may allow different heights, but this question uses the 2001 standard.)