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(continued)
Equivalent. An alternate design, feature, device, or protective action which provides an equal degree of safety.
Exit. A continuous and unobstructed means of egress to a public way, and shall include intervening doors, doorways, corridors, exterior exit balconies, ramps, stairways, smokeproof enclosures, horizontal exits, exit passageways, exit courts, and yards. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 3301(c).)
Exit Passageway. An enclosed means of egress connecting a required exit or exit court with a public way. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 3301(c).)
Fire Wall. A fire wall may be broadly defined as a wall erected to prevent the spread of fire. To be effective, fire walls must have sufficient fire resistance to withstand the effects of the most severe fire that may be expected to occur in the building and must provide a complete barrier to the spread of fire. Any openings in a fire wall must be suitably protected.
Floor Area. The area included within the surrounding exterior walls of a building or portion thereof, exclusive of vent shafts and courts. The floor area of a building, or portion thereof, not provided with surrounding exterior walls shall be the usable area under the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 407.)
Floor Hole. Any opening in a floor or platform which is smaller than a floor opening. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-407.)
Floor Opening. An opening in any floor or platform, 12 inches or more in the least horizontal dimension. It includes stairway floor openings, ladderway floor openings, hatchways, and chute floor openings. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-407.)
Flume. An elevated artificial channel or trough for conducting water. Water flumes may be constructed of wood, metal or concrete or combination of the preceding. They may be either open on top or partially covered by rigid members (caps) laid across the flume perpendicular to the water flow.
Flume Patrol. The on-site assessment/inspection of a flume's physical condition, and/or structural integrity conducted by a qualified person. The qualified person may inspect the flume or portions thereof from ground level, and/or from an elevated catwalk/walkway located above or along the flume.

Frequent. For the purpose of these orders frequent shall mean more than twelve times each year unless specifically stated otherwise in individual orders.
Fumigant. A substance or mixture of substances, used to kill pests or prevent infestation, which is a gas or is rapidly or progressively transformed to the gaseous state, even though some nongaseous or particulate matter may remain and be dispersed in the treatment space.
Gantry Truck. An automotive vehicle so designed and constructed that it straddles the load to be transported, and by means of appropriate mechanisms, picks up the load and supports it during transportation.
Grade (Adjacent Ground Elevation). The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground, paving or sidewalk, within the area between the building and the property line, or when the property line is more than 5 feet from the building, between the building and a line 5 feet from the building. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 408.)
Grounded, Effectively. Intentionally connected to earth through a ground connection or connections of sufficiently low impedance and having sufficient current-carrying capacity to prevent the build-up of voltages which may result in undue hazard to connected equipment or persons.
Guardrail. A vertical barrier erected along the open edges of a floor opening, wall opening, ramp, platform, runway, or other elevated area to prevent falls of persons. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-408.)
Handrail. A device to be used as a handhold. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2- 3301(c).)
Hazard, Extra. Areas where the amount of combustibles or flammable liquids present is such that fires of severe magnitude may be expected. These may include woodworking, auto repair, aircraft servicing, warehouses with high-piled (over 15 feet in solid piles, over 12 feet in piles that contain horizontal channels) combustibles and processes such as flammable liquid handling, painting, dipping, etc.
Hazard, High. Areas where the contents are classified as liable to burn with extreme rapidity or from which poisonous fumes or explosions are to be feared in the event of fire.

Hazard, Light. Areas where the amount of combustibles or flammable liquids present is such that fires of small size may be expected. These may include offices, schoolrooms, churches, assembly halls, telephone exchanges, etc.
Hazard, Low. Areas where the contents are classified as being of such low combustibility that no self propagating fire therein can occur and that consequently the only probable danger requiring the use of emergency exits will be from panic, fumes, or smoke, or fire from some external source.
Hazard, Ordinary. Where the amount of combustibles or flammable liquids present is such that fires of moderate size may be expected. These may include mercantile storage and display, auto showrooms, parking garages, light manufacturing, warehouses not classified as extra hazard, school shop areas, etc.
Hazardous Substance. One which by reason of being explosive, flammable, toxic, poisonous, corrosive, oxidizing, irritant, or otherwise harmful is likely to cause injury. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-409.)
Horizontal Exit. A way of passage from one building to an area of refuge in another building on approximately the same level, or a way of passage through or around a wall or partition to an area of refuge on approximately the same level in the same building, which affords safety from fire or smoke from the area of escape and areas communicating therewith.
Inaccessible Location. A location to which access is provided only by portable ladders or other portable temporary means.
Industrial Stairs. A series of steps leading from one level or floor to another, or leading to platforms, pits, boiler rooms, crossovers, or around machinery, tanks, and other equipment. A series of steps and landings having three or more risers constitutes an industrial stair or stairway. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Installation. An entire plant with all its accessories or any machine, tool, equipment, process, apparatus, subject or item covered under these orders.
Institutional Occupancy. The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof by persons harbored or detained to receive medical, charitable or other care or treatment, or by persons involuntarily detained.
Landing. An extended step or platform breaking a continuous run of steps or ramps. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301.)
Listed. See Section 3206, Approvals.
Live Load. The live load includes all loads except dead and lateral loads.
Loading Ramp. A readily moveable or portable surface of fixed or adjustable slope designed to facilitate transfer of cargo or materials handling equipment to bridge the space between a vehicle and a receiving level or area.
Mercantile Occupancy. The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof for the displaying, selling or buying of goods, wares, or merchandise.
Mezzanine or Mezzanine Floor. An intermediate floor placed in any story or room. When the total area of any such "Mezzanine Floor" exceeds 33 1/3 percent of the total floor area in that room, it shall be considered as constituting an additional "Story." The clear height above or below a "Mezzanine Floor" construction shall be not less than 7 feet.
Mill. A machine consisting of two adjacent metal rolls, set horizontally, which revolve in opposite directions (i.e., toward each other as viewed from above) used for the mechanical working of rubber and plastics compounds.
Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). A laboratory which has been recognized by the Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as meeting the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.7.
New Installation.
(A) An installation made after these Orders become effective.
(B) An existing fixed installation materially altered or otherwise materially changed after the date these Orders become effective. Materially altered or materially changed as used above does not mean the replacement of parts, maintenance, or the installation of devices designed to decrease the hazard of installation.
Noncombustible as applied to building construction material means a material which, in the form in which it is used, is either one of the following:
1. Material of which no part will ignite and burn when subjected to fire. Any material conforming to U.B.C. Standard No. 4-1 shall be considered noncombustible within the meaning of this section.
2. Material having a structural base of noncombustible material as defined in Item No. 1 above, with a surfacing material not over 1/8 inch thick which has a flame-spread rating of 50 or less.
"Noncombustible" does not apply to surface finish materials. Material required to be noncombustible for reduced clearances to flues, heating appliances or other sources of high temperature shall refer to material conforming to Item No. 1. No material shall be classed as noncombustible which is subject to increase in combustibility or flame-spread rating, beyond the limits herein established, through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric condition.
Flame-spread rating as used herein refers to rating obtained according to tests conducted as specified in U.B.C. Standard No. 42-1.
(Title 24, Part 2, Section 415.)
Nose, Nosing. That portion of a tread projecting beyond the face of the riser immediately below. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Occupancy. The purpose for which a building is used or intended to be used. The term shall also include the building or room housing such use. Change of occupancy is not intended to include change of tenants or proprietors. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 416.)
Office Occupancy. The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof for the transaction of business, or the rendering or receiving of professional services.
Occupant Load. The total number of persons that may occupy a building or portion thereof at any one time. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 3301(c).)
Open Riser. The air space between the treads of stairways without upright members (risers). (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301.)
Panic Hardware. A bar which extends not less than one-half the width of each door leaf, not less than 30 nor more than 44 inches above the floor, which will unlatch the door when a force to the bar not to exceed 15 pounds is applied in the direction of exit travel. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 3301(c).)

Personal Fall Arrest System. A system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a working level. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combinations of the aforementioned components/devices.
Personal Fall Protection System. A personal fall protection system includes personal fall arrest systems, positioning device systems, fall restraint systems, safety nets and guardrails.
Personal Fall Restraint System. A system used to prevent an employee from falling. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, and body belt/harness. It may include, lanyards, lifelines, and rope grabs designed for that purpose.
Platform. An elevated working level for persons. Storage platforms, balconies and open-sided floors are considered platforms for the purpose of these orders.
Positioning Device System. A body belt or body harness system rigged to allow an employee to be supported on an elevated surface, such as a wall, and work with both hands free while leaning.

Private Stairway. A stairway serving one tenant only.
Public Way. Any parcel of land unobstructed from the ground to the sky, more than 10 feet in width, appropriated to the free passage of the general public.
Pyroxylin Plastic. Any plastic substance, material, compound, other than nitro-cellulose film, having soluble cotton or similar nitro-cellulose as a base, including celluloid, fiber-loid, pyralin, viscoloid, zylonite and similar products, materials and compounds by whatever name known, when in the form of blocks, slabs, sheets, tubes or fabricated shapes. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-417.)
Qualified Person, Attendant or Operator. A person designated by the employer who by reason of his training and experience has demonstrated his ability to safely perform his duties and, where required, is properly licensed in accordance with federal, state, or local laws and regulations.
Ramp. Inclined passageway connecting two levels and usually used for pedestrian traffic; does not include catwalks or stairs.
Ramp, Industrial. Permanently installed inclined passageway connecting two levels and designed primarily for industrial trucks; does not include portable ramps, dockboards, dock levelers, or catwalks. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2- 3301(c).)
Required Exit. A means of egress required by these orders.
Rise. The vertical distance from the top of a tread to the top of the next higher tread. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Riser. The upright member of a step situated at the back of a lower tread and near the leading edge of the next higher tread.
Rope Access. The use of rope access equipment where ropes are used as the primary means of support, as a means of protection or positioning, and where an employee descends or ascends on a rope, or traverses along a rope.
Rope Access Equipment. Specialized equipment approved for use with rope access techniques to suspend, support, position or protect an employee.
Runway. An elevated passageway. Runways are sometimes referred to as catwalks, footwalks, elevated walkways, oilers' platforms or maintenance runways. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Shall. A mandatory requirement.
Shear Point. The immediate area where two or more machine elements pass in close contact, creating a shearing action hazardous to employees. The elements may be in any form of motion, or one may be at rest.
Ship Stair (Ships Ladder). A fixed ladder within the pitch range of 50 to 75 degrees with the horizontal, equipped with treads and stair rails. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Should. A recommendation.
Skirt Guard. In relation to vertical closing shear hazards a vertical member which prohibits entry of human body parts within the vertical plane of the shear zone.
Spiral stairway (Circular Stairway.) One with closed circular form, uniform sector-shaped treads and a supporting column.

Stair Railing. A vertical barrier constructed along the open side or sides of stairways and as intermediate stair rails where required on wide stairways. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Stairway. Two or more risers shall constitute a stairway. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 420.)
Storage Access Aisle. An aisle, from which pedestrian traffic is excluded during truck operation, designed for the passage of a single industrial truck. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-240.)
Story. That portion of a building included between the upper surface of any floor and the upper surface of the floor next above, except that the topmost story shall be that portion of a building included between the upper surface of the topmost floor and the ceiling or roof above. If the finished floor level directly above a basement, cellar or unused underfloor space is more than 6 feet above grade as defined herein for more than 50 percent of the total perimeter or is more than 12 feet above grade as defined herein at any point, such basement, cellar or unused underfloor space shall be considered as a story. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 420.)

Structure. That which is built or constructed, an edifice or building of any kind, or any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts joined together in some definite manner.
Suitable. Capable of performing with safety the particular function specified in these regulation. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-240.)
Toeboard. A vertical barrier erected along the open edges of floor openings or floor holes, platforms, and runways. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-241.)
Toe Plate (deflector type). In relation to vertical closing shear hazards a smooth metal plate not less than 8 inches wide and not less than 11 gauge thickness, attached flush with the vertical edge of the upper member of the shear, slanted downward and inward at an angle of approximately 30 degrees from the vertical.
Traffic Aisle. An aisle used by industrial vehicles and pedestrians during normal operations. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Tread. The horizontal member of a step. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)

Tread Depth. The horizontal distance from front to back of tread including nosing when used. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Tread Run. The horizontal distance from the leading edge of a tread to the leading edge of an adjacent tread. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(c).)
Wall Opening. An opening in a wall or partition not provided with glazed sash, having a height of at least 30 inches and a width of at least 18 inches, through which a person might fall to a level 30 inches or more below.
Water Heater. An appliance intended to provide hot water for domestic purposes and complying with all of the following:
(A) The heater does not have more than 120-gallon capacity.
(B) The heater is used only for heating service water.
(C) The operating control on all automatically controlled heaters is installed by the manufacturer and is of a type that cannot be regulated to increase the water temperature at the top of the heater to more than 200 <> F.

(D) A non-adjustable control is installed on all automatically controlled heaters by the manufacturer and set to shut off the heat input when the temperature at the top of the heater is 210 <> F or less. This control and the necessary fuel valve, switch, etc., shall be separate from the operating mechanisms required in (C) above.
(E) The heater is protected against over-pressure with an ASME or AGA rated relief valve set to open at not more than the maximum allowable working pressure of the heater and having a relieving capacity in BTU/hr at least equal to the burner output. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 424.)
Working Level or Working Area. A platform, walkway, runway, floor or similar area fixed with reference to the hazard and used by employees in the course of their employment. This does not include ladders or portable or temporary means used for access, repair or maintenance, provided such means are removed immediately upon completion of the work.
(Title 24, Part 2, Section 424.)
Yard. An open, unoccupied space, other than a court, unobstructed from the ground to the sky.

(Title 24, Part 2, Section 426.)
Yard Hole. An opening in a yard or pavement smaller than a yard opening.
Yard Opening. An opening in a yard or pavement, 12 inches or more in the least horizontal dimension.


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(b), Health and Safety Code.







s 3209. Standard Guardrails.
Wherever guardrail protection is required, the following standards shall be adhered to except that other types and arrangements of guardrail construction will be acceptable where the height, surface and end projection of the top rail complies with the standard specifications and the closure of the vertical area between the top rail and floor, platform, runway, or ramp provides protection at least equivalent to that afforded by a mid-rail.
(a) A standard guardrail shall consist of top rail, midrail or equivalent protection, and posts, and shall have a vertical height within the range of 42 inches to 45 inches from the upper surface of the top rail to the floor, platform, runway, or ramp level. (Note: the permissible tolerance on height dimensions is one inch). The top rail shall be smooth-surfaced throughout the length of the railing. The midrail shall be approximately halfway between the top rail and the floor, platform, runway, or ramp. The ends of the rails shall not overhang the terminal posts, except where such overhang does not constitute a projection hazard. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-1716(a).)
Note: Local building regulations may require 9-inch spacing of midrails.
(b) All guardrails and other permissible types, including their connections and anchorage, shall be designed for a live load of 20 pounds per linear foot applied either horizontally or vertically downward at the top rail. Dimensional details of railing members of a few types of construction which comply with this strength requirement are given hereinafter in subsection (c).
Note: It is recognized that the minimum value of railing strength here specified is inadequate for safety under operating conditions where railings are liable to receive heavy stresses from crowds, trucking, handling materials, etc. For such conditions, additional strength shall be provided by use of heavier stock, closer spacing of posts, bracing, or otherwise.
Railing members shall be framed in such a position that they will afford the greatest support and protection, for example, top rails of structural steel angles shall have the outside face of vertical leg located on the side adjacent to the side of normal contact by the employee. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2- 1716(b).)
(c) The following are some acceptable guardrail specifications: other combinations will be accepted as long as equivalent strength and protection are maintained.
(1) In wooden construction, the posts to be of at least 2-inch by 4-inch nominal material spaced not to exceed 6 feet, the top rails to be smooth with corners rounded and not less than 2-inch by 4-inch nominal material. The posts may be spaced on 8-foot centers if the top rails consist of double 1-inch by 4- inch nominal boards, provided that 1 board is fastened in a flat position on top of the posts and the other is fastened in an edge-up position to the inside of the posts and the side of the top board. Single midrails, where permitted, shall be not less than 2-inch by 4-inch nominal material and installed on the contact side of the guardrail.

(2) If constructed of standard metal pipe, the top rails and single midrail, where permitted, to be 1 1/2-inch outside diameter or larger. The posts to be 1 1/2-inch outside diameter or larger, the spacing not to exceed 8 feet.
(3) If constructed of structural metal, the top rails to be angle iron of at least 2-inch by 2-inch by 1/4-inch angles or other metal shapes of equivalent bending strength; and the single midrail, where permitted, to be iron or steel of at least 2-inch by 2-inch by 1/4-inch angles or other metal shapes of equivalent strength. The posts to be angle iron of at least 2-inch by 2-inch by 1/4-inch stock, the spacing not to exceed 8 feet. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2- 1716(c).)
(d) Where toeboards are required, they shall be constructed of wood, concrete, metal, or other suitable material. Where constructed of metal grille, mesh shall not exceed 1-inch. The top of the toeboard shall be not less than 3 1/2 inches above the platform, walkway, or other working level and the bottom clearance shall not exceed 1/4-inch.
Note: Where materials are piled, higher toeboards, or paneling from floor to intermediate rails or top rail shall be provided where necessary for safety. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-1753.)
Figure SG-1

SOME ACCEPTABLE INDUSTRIAL GUARDRAILS AND TOEBOARDS





Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(c), Health and Safety Code.







s 3210. Guardrails at Elevated Locations.
(a) Buildings. Guardrails shall be provided on all open sides of unenclosed elevated work locations, such as: roof openings, open and glazed sides of landings, balconies or porches, platforms, runways, ramps, or working levels more than 30 inches above the floor, ground, or other working areas of a building as defined in Section 3207 of the General Industry Safety Orders. Where overhead clearance prohibits installation of a 42-inch guardrail, a lower rail or rails shall be installed. The railing shall be provided with a toeboard where the platform, runway, or ramp is 6 feet or more above places where employees normally work or pass and the lack of a toeboard could create a hazard from falling tools, material, or equipment.Exceptions: 1. Runways used exclusively for oiling, adjusting or otherwise maintaining shafting or other machinery may have the guardrail on the side adjacent to the machinery omitted provided that additional guarding as required by Group 6 Power Transmission Equipment, Prime Movers, Machines and Machine Parts is complied with. 2. Stationary elevated platforms secured to buildings or structures used exclusively for the service and maintenance of overhead bridge cranes and similar mobile equipment may be equipped with removable railings in lieu of guardrails on the side adjacent to the machinery provided such railings are secured against falling when they are not serving as a protective railing. In existing installations where clearance prohibits railings on the outside of the platform, railings will be permitted on the building side to serve as handholds. 3. Portions of loading or storage platforms which are used primarily for loading or unloading railroad cars or trucks, or at waterside edges used for cargo handling. 4. Open-sided platforms or floors used for storage of lumber or other materials may be guarded with movable single rails, sliding panels, gates or other barriers provided they are of strength and design equivalent to guardrails. 5. Open sides of storage platforms less than four feet wide, or portions thereof which are loaded and unloaded exclusively by means of stackers or lift trucks handling pallet supported loads. 6. Glazed sides that are in compliance with Section 3242. 7. Open hearth and hot metal pouring platforms. 8. Platforms, runways, ramps, or other working levels less than 4 feet above floor, ground, or other working level constructed prior to January 1, 1967. 9. Theatre galleries, balconies, or other such elevated seating locations, where a 42-inch railing would obstruct the sight lines, may be protected by a guardrail or other barrier of not less than 34 inches in height provided that a horizontal concave safety ledge not less than 6 inches in depth and not less than 36 inches in effective width is installed beyond the railing at the balcony floor level. The safety ledge shall be designed to carry a live load of 100 pounds per square foot. 10. On outside plaza, patio, and garden areas, alternate means of protection are acceptable if the same degree of safety is provided. 11. Elevated locations used infrequently by employees if the employees using them are protected by a fall restraint/fall arrest system used in accordance with the requirements in Article 24 of the Construction Safety Orders. 12. On fire hose drying towers, the top rail may be omitted on the inboard or working side of the platform if the hose drying fingers or hangers are spaced not more than 6 inches apart and extend the full length of the platform along the open or working side to within 6 inches of the end rails. The ends of the fingers or hangers shall be positioned at the same height as prescribed for the top rail and within 5 inches from the vertical projection of the platform edge. 13. On the auditorium side of a stage, raised platforms and other raised floor areas such as runways, ramps and side stages used for entertainment or presentation. At vertical openings in the performance area of stages.
(b) Other Elevated Locations. The unprotected sides of elevated work locations that are not buildings or building structures where an employee is exposed to a fall of 4 feet or more shall be provided with guardrails. Where overhead clearance prohibits installation of a 42-inch guardrail, a lower rail or rails shall be installed. The railing shall be provided with a toeboard where the platform, runway, or ramp is 6 feet or more above places where employees normally work or pass and the lack of a toeboard could create a hazard from falling tools, material, or equipment.Exceptions: 1. Runways used exclusively for oiling, adjusting or otherwise maintaining shafting or other machinery may have the guardrail on the side adjacent to the machinery omitted provided that additional guarding as required by Group 6-Power Transmission Equipment, Prime Movers, Machines and Machine Parts is complied with. 2. Portions of loading or storage platforms which are placed or located next to railroad cars or trucks and used primarily for loading or unloading railroad cars or trucks, or at waterside edges used for cargo handling. 3. Open sides of storage platforms less than four feet wide, or portions thereof which are loaded and unloaded exclusively by means of stackers or lift trucks handling pallet supported loads. 4. Portable platforms, portable or fixed workstands, where used in close quarters which would make the installation of guardrails impracticable, may be provided with removable or hinged railings which can be either removed or swung out of the way during such work. Toeboards may not be required on portable or fixed platforms where the nature of the work requires the employees to sit on the edge of the platform. 5. Elevated locations used infrequently by employees if the employees using them are protected by a fall restraint/fall arrest system used in accordance with the requirements in Article 24 of the Construction Safety Orders. 6. Flumes when they are accessed by an employee for the purpose of conducting a flume patrol (as defined in Section 3207), and provided the employer implements either written administrative procedures or provides alternative means which will control the hazard of an employee fall off the flume. 7. Belt loaders or conveyors designed and used for access/egress to aircraft shall be equipped with at least one handrail that will furnish a handhold for anyone grasping it to avoid falling. 8. Working on or in aircraft wheel wells when the wheel well design does not permit the use of guardrails or other fall protection equipment/devices. 9. On mobile vehicles/equipment, where the design or work processes make guardrails impracticable, the use of sufficient steps and attached handholds or structural members which allow the user to have a secure hand grasp shall be permitted. Work from the decks, permanent/stationary platforms, runways, or walkways of mobile vehicles/equipment shall be excluded from the requirements of subsection (b) where it can be shown that guardrails or handholds are impracticable by the design or work processes.
(c) Where the guardrail requirements of subsections (a) and (b) are impracticable due to machinery requirements or work processes, an alternate means of protecting employees from falling, such as personal fall protection systems, shall be used.
(d) Openings in guardrails for ladderway access shall be protected as required by Section 3212(a)(2) of the General Industry Safety Orders.


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.







s 3211. Wall Openings.
An opening in a wall or partition not provided with a glazed sash, having a height of at least 30 inches and a width of at least 18 inches, through which a person might fall to a level 30 inches or more below, shall be guarded by a guardrail or other barrier of such construction and mounting that the guardrail or barrier is capable of withstanding a force of at least 200 pounds applied horizontally at any point on the near side of the guardrail or barrier. Barriers may be of solid construction, grillwork with openings not more than 8 inches long, or of slatwork with openings not more than 4 inches wide with unrestricted length. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-1716.)


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(c), Health and Safety Code.







s 3212. Floor Openings, Floor Holes, Skylights and Roofs.
(a)(1) Every floor and roof opening shall be guarded by a cover, a guardrail, or equivalent on all open sides. While the cover is not in place, the openings shall be constantly attended by someone or shall be protected by guardrails. Toeboards shall be installed around the edges at openings where persons may pass below the opening.
Exception: Stairway entrances.

(2)(A) Every ladderway floor opening or platform with access provided by ladderway, including ship stairs (ship ladders), shall be protected by guardrails with toeboards meeting the requirements of General Industry Safety Orders, Section 3209, on all exposed sides except at entrance to the opening. The opening through the railing shall have either a swinging gate or equivalent protection, or the passageway to the opening shall be so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the opening.
Exception: Ladder openings for entrance/access at perimeter roof edges where guardrail protection is not required by subsection (d) of this section.
(B)1. The uppermost surface or railing member of the swinging gate or other equivalent protection required by subsection (a)(2)(A) shall have a vertical height from the platform or floor level of between 42 to 45 inches plus or minus one inch and;
2. The swinging gate or other equivalent protection shall be capable of withstanding a force of at least 200 pounds applied vertically downward to the uppermost surface or railing member and horizontally outward at any point on the exit side of the ladder opening.

(3) Hatchways and chute floor openings shall be guarded by guardrails or by hinged or removable covers or by removable railings provided such covers or railings will afford protection equivalent to that provided by a guardrail.
This does not apply to chute openings which are effectively covered or protected by machine or equipment during operation. However, such chute shall be covered during repair or maintenance or when otherwise exposing employees to the hazards of unguarded floor openings.
(4) Foundry pits and similar sunken locations in which employees are required to work may be left unprotected during such times as the necessary handling of materials or other work prohibits the use of guardrails or equivalent; but when such pits are not in use they shall be either covered, filled in, or protected with guardrails or equivalent.
(5) Floor holes through which materials or tools may fall and create a hazard or through which parts of a person's body may contact dangerous moving parts, shall be completely covered except when in use unless these floor holes are used to feed machines or receptacles containing hot, toxic or corrosive materials, then these openings shall be guarded by hoppers, guardrails, or grates having openings not exceeding 1-inch by 5 inches. Floor holes through which transmission equipment passes may be guarded by toeboards.
(b) Floor and roof opening covers shall be designed by a qualified person and be capable of safely supporting the greater of 400 pounds or twice the weight of the employees, equipment and materials that may be imposed on any one square foot area of the cover at any time. Covers shall be secured in place to prevent accidental removal or displacement, and shall bear a pressure sensitized, painted, or stenciled sign with legible letters not less than one inch high, stating: "Opening -Do Not Remove." Markings of chalk or keel shall not be used.
(c) Covers shall not project more than one inch above the floor level and all edges shall be chamfered to an angle with the horizontal of not over 30 degrees. All hinges, handles, bolts, or other parts shall set flush with the floor or cover surface. (Title 24, part 2, section 2-1721(c).)
(d)(1) Guardrails as specified in section 3209 shall be required at locations where there is a routine need for any employee to approach within 6 feet of the edge of the roof. When intermittent work is being done safety belts and lanyards, or an approved fall protection system may be provided in lieu of guardrails.
For the purpose of this requirement, routine need means more than four times a year and intermittent work means work not exceeding four times a year.
(2) Guardrails required by subsection (d)(1) shall be provided along the roof edge extending at least 6 feet beyond the areas occupied by persons accessing, servicing or repairing permanently-mounted machinery and/or equipment.
(3) Where fall protection systems are used, safety lines and/or lanyards shall be attached to roof tie-backs meeting the requirements of section 3291(f) or equivalent anchorage. A safe and unobstructed access shall be provided to all roof tie-back locations. (Title 24, part 2, section 1711(h).)
(e) Any employee approaching within 6 feet of any skylight shall be protected from falling through the skylight or skylight opening by any one of the following methods:
(1) Skylight screens. The design, construction, and installation of skylight screens shall meet the strength requirements equivalent to that of covers specified in subsection (b) above. They shall also be of such design, construction and mounting that under design loads or impacts, they will not deflect downward sufficiently to break the glass below them. The construction shall be of grillwork, with openings not more than 4 inches by 4 inches or of slatwork with openings not more than 2 inches wide with length unrestricted, or of other material of equal strength and similar configuration, or
(2) Guardrails meeting the requirements of Section 3209, or
(3) The use of a personal fall protection system meeting the requirements of Section 1670 of the Construction Safety Orders, or
(4) Covers meeting the requirements of subsection (b) installed over the skylights, or
(5) A fall protection plan as prescribed in Section 1671.1 of the Construction Safety Orders when it can be demonstrated that the use of fall protection methods as contained in subsections (e)(1-4) of this Section is impractical or creates a greater hazard.
Exception: When the work is of short duration and limited exposure such as measuring, roof inspection, electrical/mechanical equipment inspection, etc., and the time involved in rigging and installing the safety devices required in subsections (e)(1) through (e)(4) equal or exceed the performance of the designated tasks of measuring, roof inspection, electrical/mechanical equipment inspection, etc.; these provisions may be temporarily suspended provided that adequate risk control is recognized and maintained.
(f) Access shall not be permitted on glazed surfaces such as roofs, vaults, canopies, or skylights glazed with transparent or translucent materials unless an engineer currently registered in the State of California and experienced in the design of such glazed structures has certified that the surface will support all anticipated loads. Employees working on such surfaces shall be protected by a fall protection system meeting the requirements of Section 1670 of the Construction Safety Orders.
(g) When glazed surfaces cannot be safely accessed for maintenance in accordance with subsection (f), scaffolds, catwalks, rolling ladders, platforms or other methods of safe access shall be provided.


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.









s 3213. Service Pits and Yard Surface Openings.
(a) Unused portions of service pits and pits not in actual use shall be either covered or protected by guardrails, this may be accomplished by moveable posts or stanchions and chain rails or other guardrails which will provide equivalent protection.
Exception: Inspection, transfer and service pits used exclusively for maintenance of rolling railroad stock where impracticable to install guardrails or equivalent. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-1716(f).)
(b) Permanent yard surface openings such as pits or sumps shall be guarded as required by 3212, Floor Openings, Floor Holes and Roofs. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-1716(f).)
(c) Trench or conduit covers and their supports, when located in plant roadways, shall be designed to carry a truck rear-axle load of at least 20,000 pounds.
(d) Manhole covers and their supports, when located in plant roadways, shall comply with local standard highway requirements if any; otherwise, they shall be designed to carry a truck rear-axle load of at least 20,000 pounds.


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.







s 3214. Stair Rails and Handrails.
(a) Stairways shall have handrails or stair rails on each side, and every stairway required to be more than 88 inches in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediate stair rail for each 88 inches of required width. Intermediate stair rails shall be spaced approximately equal within the entire width of the stairway. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9.)
Note: Intermediate stair railings may be of single rail construction.
Exceptions:
(1) Stairways less than 44 inches in width may have one handrail or stair rail except that such stairways open on one or both sides shall have stair rails provided on the open side or sides. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9, Exception 1.) (2) Stairways having less than four risers need not have handrails or stair rails. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9, Exception 3.) (3) Stairways giving access to portable work stands less than 30 inches high. (4) Stairs that follow the contour of tanks or other cylindrical or spherical structures where the construction requires the inside clearance between the inside stair stringer and wall or tank side to be 8 inches or less, shall not be considered an "open side." (5) Guardrails may be erected provided a handrail is attached.
(b) A stair railing shall be of construction similar to a guardrail (See Section 3209) but the vertical height shall be in compliance with Section 3214(c). (Title 24, Part 2, Sections 509.2, Exception 3 and 1006.10.) Note: Local building standards may require 9-inch spacing of midrails.
(c) The top of stair rails, handrails and handrail extensions shall be placed not less than 34 inches or more than 38 inches above the nosing of treads and landings. Stair rails and handrails shall be continuous the full length of the stairs and, except for private stairways, at least one handrail or stair rail shall extend in the direction of the stair run not less than 12 inches beyond the top riser nor less than 12 inches beyond the bottom riser. Ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals, or otherwise arranged so as not to constitute a projection hazard. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9.)
(d) A handrail shall consist of a lengthwise member mounted directly on a wall or partition by means of brackets attached to the lower side of the handrail so as to offer no obstruction to a smooth surface along the top and both sides of the handrail. The handrail shall be designed to provide a grasping surface to avoid the person using it from falling. The spacing of brackets shall not exceed 8 feet.
(Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9.2.7.1a.)
(e) Handrails projecting from a wall shall have a space of not less than 1 1/2 inches between the wall and the handrail. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9.)
(f) The mounting of handrails shall be such that the completed structure is capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any point on the rail.
(Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9.2.7.1a.)
Exception: Handrails and stair rails on flights of stairs serving basements or cellars that are covered by a trap door, removable floor or grating when not in use, shall stop at the floor level or entrance level so as not to interfere with the cover in the closed position. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 1006.9.2.7a.)


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(b), Health and Safety Code.







s 3215. Means of Egress.
(a) These regulations contain general fundamental requirements essential to providing a safe means of egress from buildings in the event of fire and other emergencies. Nothing in these regulations shall be construed to prohibit a better type of building construction, more exits, or otherwise safer conditions than the minimum requirements specified in these regulations.
(b) Exits from vehicles, vessels, or other mobile structures are not covered under these regulations except when in fixed locations and occupied as buildings.
(c) In every building or structure of such size, arrangement, or occupancy that a fire may not itself provide adequate warning to occupants, fire alarm facilities or procedures, including an evacuation plan, shall be provided where necessary to warn occupants of the existence of fire so that they may escape or to facilitate the orderly conduct of fire exit drills.
(d) Any device or alarm installed to restrict the use of an exit shall be so designed and installed that it cannot, even in cases of failure, impede or prevent emergency use of such exit.
(Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301.)
(e) Whenever the building is occupied, exit paths shall be lighted so that they may be easily recognized and all exit and directional signs shall be clearly visible.
Artificial lighting sufficient to enable objects to be seen and egress made under emergency conditions shall be provided when natural lighting is inadequate.
(Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3312(a).)
(f) No building or structure under construction shall be occupied in whole or in part until all exit facilities required for the part occupied are completed and ready for use.
(g) No existing building shall be occupied during repairs or alterations unless all existing exits and any existing fire protection, or equivalent exits and fire protection is provided and maintained.


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(c), Health and Safety Code.







s 3216. Exit Signs.
(a) Luminance. Exit and directional signs shall have a luminance on the face of such signs of not less than 50 lux. The words used on such signs shall be in block letters at least 6 inches in height with a stroke of not less than 3/4 inch. Exception: Existing signs may have the word "EXIT" in lettering not less than 5 inches high with principal strokes of letters of not less than 1/2 inch. Letters shall be of such color or design as to be in strong contrast to the background of the sign. Arrows or other directional symbols shall be of equal visibility to that stipulated herein for letters.
(b) Location. Exit or directional signs, or both, shall be provided at every exit door, at the intersection of corridors, at exit stairways or ramps and at such other locations and intervals as are necessary to provide the occupants with knowledge of the various means of egress available. Exit or directional signs need not be provided for the following:
(1) Any room or building having an occupant load of 50 or less;
(2) Dwellings units in Group R, Division 1 Occupancies;
(3) When approved, the main exterior exit doors obviously and clearly identifiable as exits. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3312(c)(3).)
(c) Electrically Illuminated Signs. Exit and exit directional signs which are required to be electrically illuminated shall be lighted with two electric lamps, either one of which shall be sufficient to provide the required luminance on the face of the sign. NOTE: Radioactive isotope self powered signs with a luminance of not less than 0.02 lamberts during its useful life will be acceptable.
(Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3312(c)(2).)


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(c), Health and Safety Code.







s 3217. Decorative Materials.
(a) All drapes, hangings, curtains, drops, and all other similar material, including Christmas trees, located in corridors, stairways, lobbies, ramps, passageways and balconies used as required exits that would tend to increase the fire and panic hazard shall be made from a non-flammable material, or shall be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition by means of a flame-retardant solution or process approved by the State Fire Marshal, as set forth in Subchapter 8, Chapter 1, Title 19, CAC.
(b) Exit lights, fire alarm sending stations, wet standpipe hose cabinets, and fire extinguisher locations shall not be concealed by any decorative material. (Title 24, Part 2, Section 2-3301(o).)


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(c), Health and Safety Code.







s 3218. Exits: Group E Occupancies.








s 3219. Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment, Materials and Assemblies.
All fire protection equipment, materials and assemblies, where required, shall be maintained in proper operating condition, and such periodic inspections and tests shall be made as are necessary to assure this.
Note: For further guidance see Title 19, Article 6, Section 574.1 et seq., California Code of Regulations.


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code; and Section 18943(c), Health and Safety Code.







s 3220. Emergency Action Plan. (continued)