At what height does scaffolding require fall protection by law?

Fall protection requirements for scaffolding are established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, which state that fall protection must be provided when employees are working at heights of 10 feet or greater on a scaffold. This regulation is in place to ensure worker safety and prevent falls, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

When scaffolding is used for tasks above this height, appropriate fall protection systems such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems must be implemented. This requirement is based on the recognition that the risk of falling significantly increases as the working height increases, particularly at or above 10 feet.

Understanding these regulations is crucial for anyone involved in construction or maintenance work that involves scaffolding, as compliance with fall protection standards is vital for ensuring a safe work environment.