What is the required minimum height for guards?

The minimum height for guards is standardized at 42 inches. This measurement ensures that the guard is sufficient to prevent falls, offering an adequate barrier for individuals who may be leaning or falling against it. The choice of 42 inches is commonly adopted in various building codes and safety regulations because it balances safety with practicality, ensuring that guards are tall enough to be effective without being impractical for installation or use.

Proper guard height is particularly important in settings such as balconies, stairs, and elevated platforms, where a fall could result in serious injury. This standard has evolved through safety studies that evaluate the ergonomic interactions between people and protective barriers, making 42 inches a well-researched and accepted figure among industry professionals.