Safety Rail System under construction guardrail rules

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

August 13, 1993

Mr. William Eyler
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Eyler:

This is in response to your June 24 letter requesting compliance determinations for your "Safety Rail System" as it relates to current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. I apologize for the delay in responding to your inquiry.

Please be advised that OSHA does not approve nor endorse products. The variable working conditions at jobsites and possible alterations or misapplication of an otherwise safe product could easily create a hazardous condition beyond the control of the manufacturer. However, we have reviewed the information you provided and offer the following comments:

Standard railing specifications are contained in 29 CFR 1926.500(f)(1)(i) thru (v). Paragraph 1926.500(f)(1)(vi) sets forth the generic specification criteria for standard railings as follows:

(vi) Other types, sizes, and arrangements of railing construction are acceptable, provided they meet the following conditions:

(a) A smooth-surfaced top rail at a height above floor, platform, runway, or ramp level of approximately 42 inches;

(b) A strength to withstand at least the minimum requirements of 200 pounds top rail pressure with a minimum of deflection;

(c) Protection between top rail and floor, platform, runway, ramp, or stair treads, equivalent at least to that afforded by a standard intermediate rail;

(d) Eliminations of overhang of rail ends unless such overhang does not constitute a hazard.

The OSHA requirements for stairrails and handrails are contained in 1926.1052(c)(1) thru (12), and 1926.500(f)(4)(i) thru (iii).

It appears that if the "Safety Rail System" is properly installed in accordance with the product data enclosed with your letter and meets the requirements of the standards listed above, then compliance would be achieved.

If we can be of any further assistance, please contact me or Mr. Dale Cavanaugh of my staff at (202) 219-8136.

Sincerely,
Roy F. Gurnham, Esq., P.E. Director
Office of Construction and Maritime
Compliance Assistance

[Requester letter reproduced on OSHA page; omitted here.]