Guards must be located along open-sided walking surfaces over how many inches measured vertically to the floor below?

Guards are required to be placed along open-sided walking surfaces that are elevated more than 30 inches above the floor or ground level. This regulation is designed to prevent falls from significant heights, ensuring the safety of individuals working or walking near these edges. The 30-inch measurement is a standard in safety codes and building regulations, reflecting a height at which the risk of injury from a fall becomes substantial.

The guidelines typically specify that when a walking surface is 30 inches or more above another surface, some form of guarding (like a railing or guardrail) must be installed to protect individuals from inadvertent falls. By implementing this measure, buildings can mitigate the potential for accidents and enhance overall safety for occupants and workers.