What is the purpose of a guardrail in a workspace?

Guardrails are an essential safety feature in various work environments, primarily designed to prevent falls from elevated surfaces such as stairways and platforms. By acting as a physical barrier, guardrails help to ensure that workers are protected from accidental slips and trips that could result in serious injuries. Their construction typically adheres to specific safety standards that specify height, strength, and mounting requirements, making them an effective solution in safeguarding personnel navigating elevated or risky areas.

The other options, while related to workplace safety, do not accurately capture the primary function of guardrails. For instance, while support can be crucial in a work environment, this is not the designated purpose of guardrails; support structures serve a different role. Similarly, marking hazardous areas is typically managed by signage or other visual indicators rather than guardrails. Lastly, guardrails do not function as lighting aids; rather, lighting solutions are separate systems designed to illuminate workspaces. Thus, the purpose of guardrails as barriers against falls is fundamentally critical to maintaining a safe working environment.