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If you're constructing a mezzanine or work platform, fall protection is a big deal. Falls are tragic, expensive and common, and fall prevention violations commonly come in near the top of OSHA's annual list of safety violations. So it's wise to be diligent about code compliance early in the project. Replacing work you've already done will be expensive and cause delays. Starting out—and staying—up to code will not only allow you to avoid fines, but also make sure the rail does what it's supposed to do: prevent falls and injuries.
Generally, guardrails are required along the open sides of any platform 4 feet or more above the ground or floor below. We can provide railing that meets common requirements for height, capacity and more.
Guardrail height requirements
OSHA requires the top edge of a railing to stand 42" above the walking or working level, plus or minus 3". IBC also uses 42" as its height requirement, but it doesn't allow the same 3" variance.
Midrails, mesh and intermediate posts also come into play at this height—the top railing alone isn't enough to prevent falls. OSHA specifies that "when there is not a wall or parapet that is at least 21 inches (53 cm) high," some intermediate material is required. This might be:
- Midrails installed at the halfway point between the top edge and the surface
- Screening, mesh or solid panels along the entire opening
- Intermediate vertical posts that create openings no more than 19" wide
IBC also targets open spaces in its railing requirements. It specifies that rails must not permit a 4"-diameter sphere between the walking surface and the top edge height.
Capacity requirements
Railing has to permit a certain amount of weight to avoid a failure that could result in a fall. OSHA uses 200 pounds as its requirement. That standard reads like this:
1910.29(b)(3)
Guardrail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied in a downward or outward direction within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge, at any point along the top rail.
1910.29(b)(4)
When the 200-pound (890-N) test load is applied in a downward direction, the top rail of the guardrail system must not deflect to a height of less than 39 inches (99 cm) above the walking-working surface.
IBC uses tougher capacity requirements, taking into account that people might be leaning on a railing at the same time a force is applied. IBC uses 50 pounds per lineal foot as its guideline, with a concentrated load of 200 pounds.
Finding the right railing expertise
Obviously, building codes go a lot deeper than just a few guidelines, and you may have codes other than OSHA or IBC to consider, such as ADA or local building requirements. That's why we recommend using experienced suppliers and getting expert help at the beginning of the process. They've already invested the time to understand the ins and outs of building codes.
We can help you with a mezzanine or platform installation from the ground up—including that all-important railing. We work with established suppliers to provide guardrails and handrails that feature the required heights, midrails, toe boards, capacities and other specifications. Contact us for more information or a quote for your project. We can help you expand upward to use more of your space, and do it safely.