OSHA requires employers to protect employees from falling through holes, including skylights. Holes less than 4 feet above a lower level need to be protected by a cover or guardrail system.
OSHA expands on the definition of an opening in the preamble to the Walking-Working Surface rule by adding that the inside edge of the gap must be at least 39 inches from the walking-working surface and the outer edge of the gap must be at least 4 feet or more from the lower level (i.e., a chute, window-walls, and temporary wall openings).
The Walking-Working Surfaces rule applies to all general industry employers and all the walking-working surfaces in their workplaces.
The rule generally, does not apply to agriculture, construction, maritime, mining, or transportation employers. However, the rule may apply to construction and transportation employers that have offices, maintenance shops, warehouses, or supply rooms.
Employers must: