When working at heights, what is the device used to prevent falls on scaffolding?

When working at heights, particularly on scaffolding, guard rails are specifically designed to prevent falls. They are installed around the perimeter of the scaffolding setup and act as a physical barrier that helps to keep workers from falling off the edge. This is crucial in ensuring safety on elevated work platforms, as it reduces the risk of accidental falls that can result from slips or miscalculations in movement.

Guard rails typically consist of a top rail that is positioned at a height where it can effectively serve as a handhold or barrier, along with a mid-rail that helps to prevent objects and personnel from falling through the opening. The installation of guard rails is a standard industry practice that aligns with safety regulations and helps to uphold a safe work environment when working at elevated areas.

While safety harnesses, toe boards, and fall arrest systems are also important safety measures related to working at heights, they serve different functions. Safety harnesses are worn by workers and connect to a fall arrest system to catch a fall if it occurs, while toe boards are small barriers located at the bottom of the scaffold that prevent tools or materials from falling off. Fall arrest systems include harnesses and lanyards, which are designed to halt a fall after it has begun, rather than to