When are handrails required for walkways over trenches?

Handrails are required for walkways over trenches that exceed a depth of 6 feet. This regulation is in place to enhance safety by preventing falls, especially in deeper excavations that present a higher risk to workers. When trenches reach such depths, it becomes crucial to provide physical barriers or handrails to mitigate hazards associated with working near open excavations. It's important to ensure that these handrails are properly installed and maintained, as they play a key role in safeguarding individuals who may be traversing these walkways. Therefore, recognizing the requirement for handrails specifically starting at a depth of 6 feet is essential for compliance with safety regulations and for promoting worker safety at construction sites.