Which item is critical for preventing falls from scaffolding?

Guardrails and harnesses are essential safety features for preventing falls from scaffolding. Guardrails provide a physical barrier that helps to keep workers within the safe boundaries of the platform, significantly reducing the risk of falling off the edges. They are designed to withstand a certain amount of force, ensuring stability and safety while working at heights.

Harnesses further enhance safety by securing workers to the scaffolding or a secure anchorage point. In the event of a slip or loss of balance, a harness can arrest a fall, preventing serious injuries or fatalities. When used together, guardrails and harnesses create a comprehensive safety system that addresses the hazards associated with working on scaffolding.

Other options, while they may be beneficial in specific contexts, do not specifically target the prevention of falls. For example, rope ladders provide a means of access but do not offer the same level of fall protection. Construction hats protect the head from falling objects but do not prevent falls themselves. Similarly, slippery gloves can increase the risk of accidents rather than mitigate them, especially in a scaffolding scenario where grip is crucial. Thus, the combination of guardrails and harnesses is critical for maximizing safety and preventing falls from scaffolding.