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Understanding OSHA Barricade Safety Standards

OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration and it’s an important authority that regulates workplace safety standards. OSHA barricade safety refers to how barricades are installed around construction sites to protect workers and be visible to pedestrians and drivers alike. It’s important to be aware of these regulations before beginning your construction project.

But what types of regulations are mandatory for barricades mounted around your construction site? And what happens if you fail to comply with these regulations? Well, failing to adhere to the OSHA rules will result in hefty fines, so keep reading to find out more.

Warning Lights Might Be Required on Barricades

In some cases, the OSHA rules dictate that warning lights need to be installed on barricades. This is done to make the barricades as visible as possible in low-light conditions. These warning lights are usually accompanied by reflective surfaces mounted on the barricades to alert drivers and pedestrians of their presence from a distance. The warning lights are usually turned on in the evening but in some cases, they are kept on 24/7. This is usually done around construction sites that feature expensive or dangerous materials and equipment.

They Should Be Properly Positioned and Supported

Barricades also need to be positioned correctly. They need to create sufficient space for workers to move around as well as provide directions and alternate routes to drivers. There are standard codes and regulations to be followed when it comes to the positioning of barricades. At the same time, these barricades need to be anchored to the ground with weights. This is done to prevent wind from tipping them over. Some of the most common types of barricades incorporate a sturdy weight with holes in which durable fencing made from plastic or aluminum is inserted.

They Should Be Detectable by People with Canes

OSHA barricade safety mentions that these items need to be easily detectable by people with long canes as well as people who have poor vision. That’s why the barricades usually feature designs in contrasting colors to make them stand out for people with impaired eyesight. At the same time, the barricades have a design that makes them easily detectable by people with long canes, so they don’t accidentally bump into them while walking.

A Gap at the Bottom of the Barricade Is Used for Drainage

At the same time, the right type of barricades also features a few inches of space at the bottom. This is done for drainage purposes as the gap lets water pass unhindered whenever necessary. Proper drainage is important in construction sites because it prevents slip and fall accidents and keeps the place clean.

Barricades installed around construction sites need to follow certain rules and regulations. You cannot simply place them wherever you want and they need to feature a certain design. This article provided the basics when it comes to OSHA barricade safety, but for more details, make sure that you contact one of our specialists today. At Starr Industries, we do our best to provide our clients with excellent scaffolding, fencing, and barricade options.

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