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

What structural requirement should a standard railing have?

1. It should be made of wood

2. It must withstand at least 200 pounds in any direction

3. It can be temporary and can be moved

4. It requires no specific weight requirements

The correct answer is: It must withstand at least 200 pounds in any direction

The requirement that a standard railing must withstand at least 200 pounds in any direction is based on ensuring safety for individuals who may lean on or use the railing for support. This strength specification is crucial because it guarantees that the railing can provide adequate protection against falls, a common concern in environments where there are elevated surfaces or edges. In general industry settings, railings are a primary safety feature to prevent accidents, and having a defined weight-bearing capacity helps mitigate the risks associated with falls from height. The requirement is part of the OSHA standards that aim to protect workers in various scenarios, reinforcing the importance of structural integrity in safety-related infrastructure. This requirement is well established, contrasting with options that suggest specifications regarding the material (wood), the transferability of the railing (temporary and movable), or a lack of weight requirements altogether, which would imply a potential safety hazard if the railing could not adequately support the required loads.