North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the maximum diameter of a sphere that can pass through openings in required guards?

1. 24 inches

2. 30 inches

3. 36 inches

4. 42 inches

The correct answer is: 30 inches

The maximum diameter of a sphere that can pass through openings in required guards is established by safety codes and regulations, primarily to prevent children from slipping through guardrails or similar structures. The correct answer is based on the guidelines that stipulate a sphere with a diameter of 4 inches should not be able to pass through the guards. According to the guidelines, openings in guards must be smaller than the diameter of a 4-inch sphere to ensure that safety measures effectively prevent falls. When applying this standard, a maximum diameter of 30 inches is permitted for spheres in terms of general construction guidelines. This means any opening that could potentially allow a sphere larger than this dimension to pass through would not comply with safety standards. This rule is significant in ensuring safety in residential and commercial buildings, as it addresses the risk of young children getting through the guards and falling from heights. Understanding the correct figure is essential for contractors and builders in maintaining compliance with safety regulations in construction and providing secure environments.