During demolition operations, what is the purpose of barricading opening holes at specific heights?

Barricading opening holes during demolition operations is primarily intended to prevent falls and accidents. Openings, particularly at heights, pose significant safety hazards for workers and others near the site. When these holes are not adequately secured, individuals may inadvertently fall into them, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.

By installing barricades, both temporary and visible, around these openings, the risk of falls is greatly minimized. These barricades serve as a physical barrier, ensuring that workers are reminded of the hazards present and encouraging them to maintain a safe distance from the dangerous areas. Additionally, they help to create a safer work environment by preventing accidental access to hazardous zones, which is crucial during demolition activities where conditions can be unstable.

While improving visibility, securing the site from trespassers, and limiting airflow may all be considerations in different contexts of construction or demolition, they do not directly address the immediate and critical concern of fall protection associated with open holes at height. Therefore, the primary and most important purpose of barricading these areas is to enhance the safety of everyone involved on the job site.