How far back should barricades be set from the projected edge of an opening above when debris is dropped?

When considering the placement of barricades for debris dropping from heights, the critical aspect is worker safety and ensuring that individuals are kept at a safe distance from potential hazards. Setting barricades 6 feet away from the projected edge of an opening aligns with safety standards that take into account the trajectory of falling debris. This distance helps to prevent injuries to workers who may be nearby by providing a buffer zone that accounts for the risk of objects falling.

The distance of 6 feet is based on recommended practices which consider factors like the type of work being conducted, the height from which debris may fall, and the dynamics of how debris could drop or ricochet. By establishing this guideline, OSHA aims to ensure that workers are not only protected from direct impact but also have sufficient space to react in case an object does start to fall.

Choosing a distance that is too short could increase the risk of injury, while opting for a significantly greater distance may not be necessary and could impede work processes. Therefore, the standard of setting barricades at 6 feet strikes an appropriate balance between safety and operational efficiency.