OSHA Q&A: steel erection work with unprotected surface edge
Question: At what distance from an unprotected side or edge does a worker, performing steel erection activities under 29 CFR 1926 Subpart R with a fall hazard greater than 15 feet, be required to have fall protection?
Response: The fall protection standards for steel erection activities are set out in Sections 1926.760 of 29 CFR 1926 Subpart R (Steel Erection). Section 1926.760(a) states:
(1) Except as provided by paragraph (a)(3) of this section, each employee engaged in a steel erection activity who is on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than 15 feet (4.6 m) above a lower level shall be protected from fall hazards by guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, positioning device systems or fall restraint systems.