Final answer:
Required guards must have openings that do not allow the passage of a sphere 4 inches in diameter, ensuring safety on structures like decks and balconies by preventing small children from slipping through.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the design and safety requirements for guards or railings typically used on decks, balconies, or stairs. To ensure safety, guards must prevent the passage of a small sphere, which would prevent small children from accidentally passing through the openings and posing a risk of falling. The correct answer to the question "Required guards shall not have openings from the walking surface to the required guard height which allow passage of a sphere how many inches in diameter?" is 4 inches. This is a standard safety requirement that aims to prevent accidents, especially for children who might fit through larger gaps.