General Contractor Practice Exam

The correct answer is based on OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations regarding safety in the workplace, particularly for guardrails used in construction and general industry settings. Guardrails are essential safety features designed to prevent falls from elevated surfaces.

According to OSHA standards, the required height for guardrails must be a minimum of 42 inches above the walking or working level. This height is designed to ensure that the guardrails are effective in preventing individuals from accidentally falling off edges or elevated platforms, thus contributing to a safer work environment.

In addition to height, OSHA rules also stipulate that guardrails must be able to withstand a specific amount of force and should have a top rail, mid rail, and a toe board in certain applications, but the critical factor here is the precise measurement of 42 inches. This standard reflects the need to balance safety concerns with practicality in construction and industrial settings.