SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/osha-walking-surface-guard-hazard

A walking surface hazard can't be fixed right away. What must the employer do?

Guard the hazard so no one uses the surface until it is fixed.

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  1. Fix it by the end of the month
  2. Post a note in the break room
  3. Guard it so no one uses it ✔

Why: Hazards on walking-working surfaces must be fixed before anyone uses the surface again. If the repair can't happen right away, the hazard must be guarded to keep people off.

Huh, didn't know that: Repairs that affect a surface's structure must be done or supervised by a qualified person.

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References

Answer: Guard it so no one uses it. Hazards on walking-working surfaces must be fixed before anyone uses the surface again. If the repair can't happen right away, the hazard must be guarded to keep people off.

  1. 29 CFR 1910.22 General requirements www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-D/section-1910.22
    If the correction or repair cannot be made immediately, the hazard must be guarded to prevent employees from using the walking-working surface
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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