According to OSHA, what is the required height range for guardrails to be placed above scaffold planks?

The requirement for guardrails on scaffolds, as set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), specifies that the top edge of guardrails must be between 38 and 45 inches above the scaffold platform. This specification is designed to provide effective fall protection for workers operating at heights while ensuring that the guardrail is neither too high nor too low, which could compromise safety or hinder work activities.

In particular, the height range of 38 to 45 inches strikes a balance between optimal safety and practical usability, allowing workers to lean against the guardrail while still being adequately protected from falls. Proper installation within this range is essential for compliance with safety regulations, ensuring a safer work environment on elevated platforms.