OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

What is one requirement for guarding floor, wall openings, and holes?

1. Only openings larger than 4 feet need guarding

2. All stairway floor openings must be guarded

3. There are no specific requirements for guarding

4. Only outdoor openings require guarding

The correct answer is: All stairway floor openings must be guarded

One requirement for guarding floor, wall openings, and holes is that all stairway floor openings must be guarded. This is essential for maintaining safety in the workplace, particularly in areas where there is a risk of someone falling through an opening. Guarding these openings helps prevent accidents and injuries that could occur if someone were to inadvertently step into or fall through an unguarded area. The regulations mandate that stairways have proper coverings or guardrails in place, ensuring that any potential hazards associated with openings are adequately addressed to promote safety within the environment. The other options do not accurately represent OSHA regulations. Only requiring guarding for larger openings or limiting safety measures to outdoor areas overlooks the broad scope of workplace safety that encompasses various types of openings, including those indoors. Therefore, the requirement that all stairway floor openings must be guarded aligns with OSHA's commitment to ensuring a safe working environment.