North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

How many feet must safety nets extend beyond the work surface?

1. 5ft

2. 8ft

3. 10ft

4. 12ft

The correct answer is: 10ft

Safety nets are a critical safety measure used on construction sites to catch falling workers or materials and prevent injuries. In the context of construction safety regulations, the requirement for safety nets to extend beyond the work surface is specifically designed to ensure that they effectively capture falling debris and provide adequate safety coverage. The correct answer indicates that safety nets must extend a minimum of 10 feet beyond the work surface. This distance allows for a safety buffer that accounts for potential swings or movements of falling objects, as well as varying angles that debris may take when falling. The 10-foot extension is not arbitrary; it is grounded in safety research and industry standards that aim to maximize worker protection. In comparison, other distances provided as options, while they may seem reasonable at first glance, do not offer the same level of coverage required to ensure that all personnel on the site are adequately protected in the event of a fall. By adhering to the 10-foot standard, construction sites can enhance safety protocols and minimize risks associated with falls, aligning with OSHA regulations and best practices within the construction industry.