OSHA 1926.501(b)(4): fall protection at holes and floor openings
Under 29 CFR 1926.501(b)(4), workers must be protected from falling through holes, including skylights, more than 6 feet above a lower level by personal fall arrest systems, covers, or guardrail systems around the hole. Covers also protect against tripping into holes and objects falling through them.
Official text
(4) Holes. (i) Each employee on walking/working surfaces shall be protected from falling through holes (including skylights) more than 6 feet (1.8 m) above lower levels, by personal fall arrest systems, covers, or guardrail systems erected around such holes. (ii) Each employee on a walking/working surface shall be protected from tripping in or stepping into or through holes (including skylights) by covers. (iii) Each employee on a walking/working surface shall be protected from objects falling through holes (including skylights) by covers.Read the full section on eCFR
What it requires, in plain English
- Holes more than 6 feet above a lower level need a cover, guardrail system, or personal fall arrest system.
- Covers must also protect workers from tripping or stepping into holes and from objects falling through them.
- Under 1926.502(i), covers must support at least twice the weight they may carry, be secured against displacement, and be marked “HOLE” or “COVER.”
Where it shows up on site
- Mechanical and plumbing penetrations left open after a sleeve is pulled
- Plywood covers that are unsecured, unmarked, or undersized
- Stair and shaft openings before rails are installed
Verify on site before you call it
A photo rarely shows every fact a standard depends on. Confirm these in person before treating the condition as a violation:
- What is the actual depth of the drop below the opening?
- What is the least dimension of the penetration and its intended use (shaft, stair, MEP)?
- Is any cover, guardrail, or barricade present outside the camera frame?
- Is the opening used for debris dumping, storage, or removal?
Typical corrective actions
- Restrict access and post warning until the opening is protected.
- Install a secured, marked cover capable of supporting twice the imposed load, or a guardrail system, as appropriate.
- Have a competent person verify the selected protection and document it before work resumes nearby.
Related standards
This guide summarizes federal OSHA construction standards for general information. It is not legal advice. States with their own OSHA-approved plans may set different or additional requirements; see federal and state coverage.