Openings above or near travel ways through which miners may fall should be protected by?

• A. Railings, barriers, or covers
• B. Warning signs only
• C. Lighting only
• D. None of the above

Answer: (A)

Openings around travel ways create a fall hazard, so the protection must provide a physical barrier at the edge or over the opening. Railings offer a safe edge you can’t accidentally cross, barriers create a solid boundary to keep you from stepping into the opening, and covers seal the opening so you can pass over it or move equipment safely. Warning signs and lighting help you see the area, but they don’t prevent a fall by themselves, so they’re not enough as protection. Using railings, barriers, or covers directly addresses the risk of falling into or through the opening.