Development and validation of a method for evaluating temporary wooden guardrails built and installed on construction sites

Wooden guardrails are usually built and installed on construction sites to protect workers against falls. In this context, it is extremely difficult to verify whether they are safe and comply with existing regulations. The present study describes the development and validation of an evaluation method and a test protocol for verifying whether these wooden guardrails are safe and meet the requirements of the Québec Safety Code for the construction industry (S-2.1, r.6) in order to ensure that workers have adequate fall protection. This study shows that some wooden guardrails do not comply with S-2.1, r.6. The evaluation method and test protocol are reproducible and easily applicable on construction sites and can easily be adapted to international regulations.