redbird11
REGISTERED
Commercial Construction. I have a large mechanical pit that is 19 inches lower than the surrounding floor? Am I required to have a railing? What it the reference to cite? OSHA? IBC?
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When is a railing required around a mechanical pit?
- Thread starter redbird11
- Start date
Check out section 1015 Gaurds in the IBC. The upshot of it is that until you get to a 30" drop, you don't need a guardrail according to the IBC.
bill1952
SAWHORSE
Because nothing is required does not mean it's not a good idea to help people avoid an 18" fall. I'd suggest at the very least marking (paint or tape on edge) and sufficient lighting to see it. Signage at the entrance that there is a hazard would help. You've recognized it is a hazard. Help others avoid injuries.
Paul Sweet
SAWHORSE
Is this a mechanical space, or is it open to the public?
Although IBC doesn't require protection for a drop less than 30", it would be prudent to provide a railing if the space is open to the public.
OSHA would apply to spaces only used by employees, but 1910.28(b)(1)(i) only requires protection when the drop is 4 ft. or more. I concur with bill1952's recommendation to paint the edge safety yellow.
Although IBC doesn't require protection for a drop less than 30", it would be prudent to provide a railing if the space is open to the public.
OSHA would apply to spaces only used by employees, but 1910.28(b)(1)(i) only requires protection when the drop is 4 ft. or more. I concur with bill1952's recommendation to paint the edge safety yellow.