Final answer:
The requirements for guarding horizontal shafting seven feet or less from the floor according to 29 CFR 1910.219(c)(2)(i) is to install fixed guards to prevent accidents.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to 29 CFR 1910.219(c)(2)(i), the requirements for guarding horizontal shafting, which is seven feet or less above the floor or working platform, is to install fixed guards. This regulation is part of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standards, which aim to protect workers from various serious hazards. These hazards include, but are not limited to, risks from unguarded machinery, which can cause injuries or fatalities. Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2: Install fixed guards. Fixed guards provide a physical barrier between workers and moving machine parts, ensuring that accidental contact is prevented.
It is essential for employers to adhere to these guidelines to maintain a safe working environment and comply with federal law. Failing to protect workers from the dangers of horizontal shafting can lead to severe penalties, including fines and citations. Moreover, ensuring worker safety aligns with the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act, requiring employers to keep their workplaces free from serious recognized hazards when no specific OSHA standard applies to the hazard.