General-industry limits from 29 CFR 1910 Subparts D [1] and E [2], each row citing its paragraph. US values are as printed; metric lengths are exact conversions (1 in = 25.4 mm), not the CFR’s rounded figures. Most limits have conditions and exceptions: read the paragraph before applying it.
Guardrails & Toeboards
The top edge may be higher than 45 in if the system meets every other criterion of 1910.29(b) [1].
Handrails & Stair Rails
| Stair width | Enclosed | One open side | Two open sides | Earth built up on both sides |
|---|
The stair width must be clear of everything except handrails. Ship and alternating tread-type stairs need handrails on both sides, 1910.28(b)(11)(iii) [1].
Stairways
Spiral, ship and alternating tread-type stairs only where standard stairs are not feasible, 1910.25(b)(8) [1].
| Angle to horizontal | Rise (in) | Rise (mm) | Tread run (in) | Tread run (mm) |
|---|
Standard stairs installed before Jan. 17, 2017 may use these pairs, or any pair giving 30–50°, instead of the 9.5 in limits. Each pair sums to 17.5 in; the 40° 08′ row is as printed, though 8 over 9.5 in gives 40° 06′.
| Type | Angle from horizontal |
|---|
Ladders
Fall protection for fixed ladders is under Fall Protection.
Fall Protection
1910.28 does not apply to portable ladders, among other exceptions in 1910.28(a)(2) [1].
| Ladder | Required | 29 CFR |
|---|
Exit Routes
OSHA also accepts compliance with the exit-route provisions of NFPA 101-2009 or IFC-2009, 1910.35 [2].
Compliance Dates
| Date | From or by this date | 29 CFR |
|---|
All Values
| Topic | Item | US value | Metric | 29 CFR |
|---|
Every numeric row of the tables above in one list. Forces, masses and light levels are converted at 1 lbf = 4.448 N, 1 lb = 0.4536 kg, 1 fc = 10.76 lx and 1 fL = 3.426 cd/m², rounded as shown.