Final answer:
OSHA standards dictate that guardrails, as a form of fall protection, must be 42 inches, plus or minus 3 inches high above the working surface to ensure worker safety. Employers are responsible for implementing these safety measures, which contribute to preventing workplace accidents. Therefore, the correct option in the final answer is: B. 42 inches, plus or minus 3 inches.
Step-by-step explanation:
When it comes to workplace safety, OSHA standards are critical in ensuring that appropriate protective measures are in place to minimize risks for workers. One such protective measure is the implementation of guardrails to protect workers from falls. According to OSHA's guidelines, the height of the guardrail (the top rail) above the working surface should be 42 inches, plus or minus 3 inches. This height is specifically designed to prevent workers from accidentally falling from elevated platforms, walkways, or workstations.
It is an essential aspect of fall protection and plays a key role in maintaining a safe work environment. Employers are responsible for adhering to these regulations not just with guardrails but also by providing additional fall protection, such as safety harnesses and lines, and by preventing access to hazardous areas. It is also crucial that workers remain vigilant by staying a safe distance from edges, refraining from leaning too far over railings, and ensuring that the workplace is free from serious recognized hazards.