Wire rope and metal stud guardrails at construction sites

August 17, 1994

Mr. James W. O'Boyle, C.S.P., P.E.
Dover Elevator Company
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. O'Boyle:

Your January 31 letter requesting an interpretation of an Occupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA) standard addressing the materials used for constructing guardrails has been forwarded to the Office of Construction and Maritime Compliance Assistance for response. I apologize for the delay in responding to your inquiry.

OSHA's standards do not prohibit the use of wire rope or metal dry wall studs for the construction of guardrails at construction sites. If guardrails made with these materials meet the required criteria such as strength, deflection and smooth surface, OSHA will accept them.

We share your concern, however, that guardrails made of these materials are difficult to maintain or replace in effective condition. Let me assure you that OSHA is focusing its attention on fall hazards and will issue citations for ineffective guardrails to all responsible employers according to our multi-employer worksite citation policy. I have enclosed a copy of OSHA's multi-employer worksite policy for your reference.

If we can be of any further assistance please contact me (ext 150) or Dale Cavanuagh (ext 149) of my staff at (202) 219-8136.

Sincerely,

Roy F. Gurnham, P.E., J.D. Director Office of Construction and Maritime Compliance Assistance

Enclosure

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