What term refers to the protection measures installed to prevent falls from elevated surfaces?

The term that refers to the protection measures installed to prevent falls from elevated surfaces is "guards." Guards are physical barriers designed to prevent workers from falling off edges, platforms, or other elevated areas where there is a risk of falling. This can include railings, safety nets, and other systems that effectively create a secure environment for individuals working at heights.

Using guards is essential in ensuring workplace safety, as they serve not only to prevent falls but also to provide a visible boundary that informs workers of the hazards associated with working near drop-offs or ledges. By understanding the purpose of guards, one can appreciate their role in compliance with safety regulations and best practices in the electrical contracting and construction industries.

Other options, while they might relate to safety in various contexts, do not specifically denote the structural measures installed for fall prevention. For instance, barriers may refer to various forms of obstruction but do not specifically imply fall prevention features. Fences typically serve more in the context of restricting access to an area rather than preventing falls. Signs, although important for conveying warnings or instructions, do not provide physical protection against falls.