On scaffolding, what is the minimum width that platforms or walkways can be before fall protection is required?

On scaffolding, what is the minimum width that platforms or walkways can be before fall protection is required?

• A. 16 inches
• B. 18 inches
• C. 24 inches
• D. 30 inches

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that fall protection requirements on scaffolds are triggered by how wide the walking surface is. If the platform or walkway is 18 inches wide or less, fall protection is required because there isn’t enough room for secure footing and safe movement, increasing the risk of a fall. In practice, you’d provide fall protection—such as guardrails or a personal fall arrest system—for those narrow surfaces. The other widths listed aren’t the standard threshold; 18 inches is the key cutoff.

The main idea is that fall protection requirements on scaffolds are triggered by how wide the walking surface is. If the platform or walkway is 18 inches wide or less, fall protection is required because there isn’t enough room for secure footing and safe movement, increasing the risk of a fall. In practice, you’d provide fall protection—such as guardrails or a personal fall arrest system—for those narrow surfaces. The other widths listed aren’t the standard threshold; 18 inches is the key cutoff.