Which component is essential to install for safety when scaffolding exceeds 3 meters in height?

When scaffolding exceeds 3 meters in height, the installation of guardrails is essential for safety. Guardrails are designed to prevent workers from falling off the edge of the scaffolding. They provide a critical safety barrier that helps protect individuals working at height, as falls can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. The use of guardrails is in accordance with safety standards and regulations that mandate their inclusion in scaffolding setups that exceed a certain height.

While toe boards, footings, and bracing are also important components in scaffolding systems, they serve different purposes. Toe boards help prevent tools and materials from falling off the scaffolding platform, footings ensure that the scaffolding is stable and can support the weight, and bracing adds structural integrity, preventing swaying or tipping. However, in terms of directly addressing the risk of falls from elevated heights, guardrails are the component specifically required for safety once the scaffolding exceeds 3 meters.