Massachusetts Unrestricted Construction Supervisor License Practice Test

What is the minimum height above a finished floor a protective covering of a structural member must be to protect it from impact?

1. Full height of member

2. 50% of height of member

3. 5 feet

4. 4 feet

The correct answer is: 5 feet

The requirement that a protective covering for a structural member be at least 5 feet above a finished floor is based on safety codes and regulations aimed at preventing injuries from accidental impacts. This height is designed to shield the structural members, such as columns and beams, which might otherwise be susceptible to damage from equipment, materials, or personnel in a construction environment. By specifying a 5-foot height, the regulation ensures that the protective covering is positioned well above the common line of sight and impact zones in many working conditions, which typically include movement by workers and machinery. This serves not only to protect the structural integrity of the member itself but also to maintain overall site safety. The alternative heights offered, whether proportional to the member's height or lower than 5 feet, do not adequately address the potential risks present in active construction sites, where impacts can occur from various directions and at different levels. Therefore, the minimum height of 5 feet is established to ensure comprehensive protection.