What is the primary safety purpose of toeboards on scaffolding?

Toeboards serve a critical safety function in scaffolding by forming a barrier at the edge of the platform. Their primary purpose is indeed to prevent tools, materials, and other objects from falling off the edge of the scaffold, which helps protect personnel working below from potential injuries related to falling objects. This safety feature is essential in maintaining a secure working environment on construction sites where various tools and materials are used, ensuring that workers and bystanders remain safe from accidental drops that could cause serious harm.

While toeboards may contribute indirectly to other aspects of scaffolding, such as maintaining stability and preventing items from rolling off, their foremost responsibility is focused on safety related to falling debris. Thus, this focus on providing a secure perimeter delineates their primary role in scaffolding safety protocols.