What is the role of guardrails in scaffolding?

Guardrails play a crucial role in scaffolding systems by serving as a safety feature designed to prevent falls from the working surface. When workers are elevated on scaffolding, the risk of falling can be significant, especially when performing tasks that require reaching or leaning over the edge. Guardrails create a barrier that helps to keep individuals safely within the confines of the working area, thereby reducing the potential for serious injuries due to falls.

In addition to their primary safety function, guardrails can also enhance the overall stability of the scaffolding by preventing workers from leaning too far over the edge. While other components of scaffolding are designed to provide support and stability, the guardrails specifically target fall prevention, making them a vital part of safe scaffold design.