What is the maximum height a safety net can be installed from the working surface?

The maximum height a safety net can be installed from the working surface is indeed 30 feet. This safety measure is established by OSHA regulations to ensure that if workers fall, they will be adequately protected. Safety nets are designed to catch falling personnel and materials, and their height designation is critical to ensure effectiveness while minimizing the risk of injury.

Installing safety nets at a height greater than 30 feet can compromise their ability to absorb the impact of a fall, which can result in increases in the severity of injury or even fatalities. Furthermore, safety nets must be installed as close to the work surface as possible, with a maximum allowable distance that ensures optimal safety. This standard reflects the balance between adequate protection and practical considerations in a construction environment.