What must guardrails be installed to protect against?

Guardrails are specifically designed to prevent falls from heights, making them a critical safety feature in various environments such as construction sites, rooftops, and elevated platforms. Their primary function is to create a physical barrier that keeps workers and others from accidentally stepping off the edge of a surface where they could fall and sustain injuries.

The proper installation of guardrails includes adherence to safety standards that dictate their height, strength, and structural integrity, ensuring they can effectively mitigate the risks associated with working at elevation. By providing a clear boundary and a protective barrier, guardrails contribute significantly to maintaining safety and reducing the likelihood of falls, which can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

Other options, although related to safety, do not reflect the primary purpose of guardrails. For instance, while heavy machinery and slipping hazards are important concerns in workplace safety, they are typically addressed through other means such as machine enclosures, clear signage, and surface treatments. Similarly, while prevention of falling objects is crucial, it usually involves different types of protective measures such as catch platforms or tool lanyards. Therefore, the most appropriate answer concerning guardrails is their role in preventing falls from heights.