Stair Tower Safety Quiz

Explanation
To determine the height at which a brace needs to be installed, we need to consider the stability and safety of the stair tower. Generally, braces are installed at regular intervals to provide additional support and prevent the tower from swaying or collapsing. Since the question does not provide any specific guidelines or requirements for the brace installation, we can assume that a brace is needed for standard safety purposes. Considering this, it is reasonable to install a brace at a height of 28 ft, which is a common height for brace installation in construction practices.

Explanation
A free-standing stair tower may have a maximum height of 3 landings. This means that there can be a maximum of 3 sets of stairs or platforms in the tower, with each set providing a landing for people to rest or change direction. This limit ensures the safety and stability of the structure, as exceeding this height could pose a risk of instability or collapse.

Explanation
A competent person is the only one who may inspect, tag, and date a stair tower. This person has the knowledge and expertise to assess the safety and compliance of the stair tower and ensure that it meets the necessary standards. The job superintendent and OSHA representative may have their own roles and responsibilities in overseeing the construction site, but when it comes to specifically inspecting, tagging, and dating a stair tower, it is the responsibility of a competent person.

Explanation
Stair towers should be inspected daily to ensure their safety and functionality. Daily inspections allow for any potential hazards or issues to be identified and addressed promptly, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries. Regular inspections help to maintain the structural integrity of the stair towers and ensure that they comply with safety regulations. By conducting daily inspections, any necessary repairs or maintenance can be carried out in a timely manner, ensuring the ongoing safety of individuals using the stair towers.

Explanation
If a stair tower has a green tag but the inspection date is not listed, it is not okay to use the stair tower. The absence of an inspection date raises concerns about the safety and maintenance of the stair tower. Without a recent inspection, it is uncertain whether the stair tower meets the required standards and regulations for safe use. Therefore, it is not advisable to use the stair tower in this situation.

Explanation
All of these options can potentially cause a pinch point while building a stair tower. A pinch point refers to a situation where there is a risk of getting caught or squeezed between two objects, leading to injury. When connecting braces with a hammer, there is a possibility of fingers or hands getting caught between the two objects. Similarly, while shaking out material or between bracing and rosettes, there is a risk of body parts getting trapped or squeezed. Therefore, all of these scenarios can result in pinch points during the construction of a stair tower.

Explanation
The minimum dimensions of a stair tower mud seal are 2" x 10" x 2'. This means that the mud seal should have a width of 2 inches, a depth of 10 inches, and a length of 2 feet. The mud seal is an important component of a stair tower as it helps to prevent water and moisture from seeping into the structure, providing a barrier between the ground and the bottom of the tower. The dimensions specified ensure that the mud seal is wide enough and deep enough to effectively perform its function.

Explanation
Toe boards are required on all landings to prevent tools, equipment, or materials from falling off the edge. They provide a barrier that helps maintain a safe working environment on elevated surfaces. Without toe boards, there is a risk of items sliding off and causing potential hazards to workers below. Therefore, it is essential to have toe boards installed on all landings to ensure the safety of workers and prevent any accidents or injuries.

Explanation
A yellow tag on a stair tower indicates that it is under construction and only stair tower erectors are allowed to enter. This tag serves as a safety measure to restrict access to the construction area and ensure that only authorized personnel are present. It alerts others to the potential hazards and risks associated with the ongoing construction work, emphasizing the importance of following safety protocols and preventing unauthorized entry.

Explanation
A Professional Engineer is required to design stair tower bracing. This is because a Professional Engineer has the necessary qualifications, education, and experience to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the stair tower. They have the expertise to assess the load requirements, calculate the necessary bracing, and design a structure that meets all relevant codes and standards. A Professional Engineer's involvement is crucial to ensure that the stair tower is designed correctly and can withstand the forces it will be subjected to.