Building Officials Association of Florida
Protecting Lives and Property since 1953

Interpretation #7363

Published July 09, 2014

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Original Request

Code Version
2010
Code
MECHANIC
Code Description
Mechanical
Chapter
3
Section
301.4.1 and 304.11
Topic
Harness in lieu of guards

Question

Is it the intent of section 301.4.1, to allow for alternate methods of compliance, such as personnel tied off with a harness, when section 304.11 indicates guards "shall" be required, but are not installed.

Answer Published 07/09/2014 at 1:00 PM

No.

Commentary

The guard does not constitute a material or method of construction. It is a life safety concern for workers. While OSHA rules permit harnesses in some instances, the code does not offer this alternate.