What feature must scaffolding have at heights of 10 feet or more?

When scaffolding is erected at heights of 10 feet or more, it is crucial to have guardrails, mid-rails, and toe-boards installed for several reasons related to safety and fall prevention. This requirement is in place to help protect workers from falling off the edges of the scaffolding or from tools and materials that may accidentally fall onto workers below.

Guardrails serve as a primary barrier, preventing individuals from accidentally falling over the side. Mid-rails are placed midway between the top guardrail and the working platform to offer additional protection and to enhance structural integrity. Toe-boards are installed at the base of the scaffolding to prevent tools, materials, and debris from rolling off the platform and hitting workers on lower levels.

Collectively, these features significantly reduce the risk of falls and ensure a safer working environment on construction sites where scaffolding is used. Therefore, having all three components—guardrails, mid-rails, and toe-boards—on scaffolding at heights of 10 feet or more is not only a best practice but also aligns with OSHA regulations and safety standards.