How high must the vertical supports for guardrails extend above the ground?

The correct answer indicates that the vertical supports for guardrails must extend 30 inches above the ground. This height is established to ensure that the guardrails provide adequate protection and are compliant with safety standards.

A height of 30 inches strikes a balance between being tall enough to prevent accidental falls and low enough to allow for visibility and ease of accessibility. When guardrails are at this height, they effectively serve their purpose of guarding against potential hazards while not obstructing the line of sight unnecessarily.

In practice, adhering to the specified height helps in maintaining consistency across various platforms and infrastructure, enhancing safety for both workers and the public. The rationale behind establishing such standards often includes considerations of user demographics, the nature of the work environment, and statistical data regarding fall incidents. Properly implemented guardrails can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, which is why the 30-inch height is recommended.