Helping to Keep Your Workers Safe with Fall Protection Systems and Equipment
The city of Madison resides in the state of Wisconsin and Wisconsin abides by the Federal OSHA CFR 2019 rules when it comes to fall protection.
As well as adhering to the OSHA guidelines, the city of Madison follows the International Building Code (IBC) along with some amendments. The amendments focus on a variety of things, but very few affect the standards surrounding fall protection.
Understanding Madison Fall Protection Requirements
OSHA Standard Interpretation - Do I follow OSHA or local building code in Madison?
The strictest rules must be followed. Where local codes are in effect, they are generally more specific and more stringent than applicable OSHA regulations. Compatibility with OSHA regulations is seldom an issue. (source)
OSHA 1910.5(c)(1) - What OSHA code applies in Madison?
If a particular standard is specifically applicable to a condition, practice, means, method, operation, or process, it shall prevail over any different general standard which might otherwise be applicable to the same scenario. (source)
SPS 321.04 (3)(c) - Where is guardrail required in Madison?
All openings between floors, and open sides of landings, platforms, balconies or porches that are more than 24 inches above grade or a floor shall be protected with guards. (source)
IBC 1015.2 - At what height do I need fall protection or guardrail in Madison?
Guardrails are required on any elevated walking surface above 30 inches. (source)
OSHA 1910.29 - What can a guardrail be made out of in Madison?
Guardrails, as long as they comply with all applicable standards, may be made out of any material. (source)
IBC 1015.3 - How tall does rooftop guardrail need to be in Madison?
Guards can not be less than 42 inches tall. (source)
OSHA 1926 Subpart M App B - How far apart can guardrail posts be in Madison?
Guardrail posts may not be spaced more than eight feet apart. (source)
OSHA 1910.29(b)(2) - Do I need a mid-rail in Madison?
Midrails must be installed between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working surface when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches high. (source)
OSHA 1910.29(k) - When do I need a toeboard in Madison?
Toeboards are required when there is danger of items falling from an elevated walking-working surface onto workers below. (source)
IBC 1607.8.1.1 - What are the load requirements for rooftop railing in Madison?
Handrails and guards must be designed to resist a concentrated load of 200 pounds. (source)
OSHA 1910.29(b) - Can I use a non-penetrating guardrail in Madison?
Yes, as long as it complies with all other guardrail standards. (source)
IBC 1014 - Can guardrail serve as handrail in Madison?
Guardrails and handrails serve two different purposes and have different requirements. A handrail may be attached to a guardrail, but they are not one in the same. (source)
IBC 1015.2 - If my rooftop is lower than 22 feet but I have mechanical equipment close to the edge, do I need rooftop railing in Madison?
Guards must be located along open-sided walking surfaces, including equipment platforms, that are located more that 30 inches measured vertically to the floor or grade below any point within 36 inches horizontally to the edge of the open side. (source)
IBC 1015.7 - If my rooftop is lower than 22 feet but I have a roof hatch close to the edge, do I need rooftop railing in Madison?
If you have a roof hatch located within 10 feet of the roof edge, the roof access or roof edge must be protected by guardrail. (source)
OSHA 1910.28(b)(3) - When is protection required when falling through a hole in Madison?
Employees must be protected from falling through holes, including skylights, that have more than a 4 foot drop, by personal fall arrest systems, guardrails, or covers. (source)
Popular Fall Protection Products in Madison
What Our Customers Are Saying
"Julian was very knowledgeable and helped us find a rooftop guardrail solution that fit all of our needs."
Ryan N. in Madison, Wisconsin
Have any Questions about Fall Protection?
We pride ourselves on not being "just another company trying to sell you something". We take safety seriously and we want to partner with you to make sure you receive the right fall protection solution that meets compliance requirements, protects your workers while they work at height, and reduces liability for your company.
