The OSHA standard for protecting reinforcing steel can be found in 1926 subpart Q for concrete and masonry construction.
1926.701(b) states all protruding reinforcing steel, onto and into which employees could fall, shall be guarded to eliminate the hazard of impalement.
Exposure to impalement is always a concern when employees are working above rebar or other sharp protrusions. Protection is typically provided by using caps or covers made of plastic, wood or metal.
One issue we see when walking project jobsites, is when companies use the mushroom style plastic covers to provide impalement protection. These types of covers are suitable protection from scratches ONLY and cannot be used for impalement protection.
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