Guardrail

A perimeter barrier of rails, guard wires or lifelines supported by stanchions to reduce the risk of people falling overboard.

The arrangement may include rigid rails, wire or suitable rope, together with gates, pulpits and pushpits. Required height, spacing, strength and openings depend on the vessel and applicable standards, so a particular waist height is not part of the definition.

Stanchion bases, terminals, tension, corrosion, damaged wire and gate closures require inspection. A guardrail or guard wire must not be treated as a personal-tether attachment point unless that use and load have been specifically designed and approved.