Abstract:
A versatile handrail and toeboard safety system that provides flexible solutions for the implementation of improved construction site safety barriers using specialized brackets to mount standard wooden members. The brackets of the handrail and toeboard safety system is formed of multiple orthogonally arranged plates creating spaces to receive and secure wooden construction members as a handrail for personnel safety in addition to a toeboard for equipment and material safety. The parallel plates are formed with several mounting points for wooden members and several mounting points for anchoring the bracket to a base floor. The brackets are formed to withstand a minimum two-hundred (200) pound force exerted at the top of a forty-five (45) inch tall handrail attached to the anchored bracket. The brackets provide the versatility to be used in various system arrangements and the expeditious setup and removal of the handrail and toeboard safety system.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/599,403 for a “Construction Safety Handrail and Toeboard System” filed Jan. 16, 2015, and currently co-pending, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/854,032 for a “Construction Safety Handrail and Toe Board System” filed Mar. 29, 2013, and currently co-pending, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/617,656 for a “Construction Safety Handrail and Toe Board System” filed Mar. 29, 2012. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/599,403 also claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/928,976 for a “Construction Safety Handrail and Toe Board System” filed Jan. 17, 2014. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to construction safety systems. The present invention is more particularly, though not exclusively, useful as an improved safety system for construction sites, providing an expeditious system for setup and removal of personnel and equipment safety barriers. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Construction barriers for personnel and equipment have historically been made of building materials available at a construction site, such as sheets of plywood and two-by-fours, hard-mounted to the floor of construction sites by way of nails or bolts. This type of barrier is constructed primarily for safety, as they are typically employed near the edge of a working area on the second floor (or higher) of a construction site for purposes of preventing personnel and equipment from falling off the edge of a work area to the floor or ground below. The barriers provide a measure of safety as people work near the edge of the construction site. 
         [0004]    Traditionally, these safety barriers have been mounted to the floor of the second or third story of a home construction site, where a single story floor can be as high as 20 feet from the ground. Equipment falling from that height would certainly be damaged, but may also cause serious injury or death if it were to impact someone standing below. In an effort to reduce the likelihood of equipment damage and personnel injury, wooden barriers are typically erected to keep equipment, personnel, and debris from falling off a construction site. Typically mounted to the vertical members (studs) of a home construction site or other larger commercial buildings, these barriers usually employ a handrail three to four feet tall for personnel safety, in addition to a further barrier on or near the floor, preventing equipment and debris from sliding or rolling off the second (or higher) story of the construction site. Ordinarily, two-by-fours are used and simply nailed together in vertical and horizontal supports to create a fence, of sorts. Often plywood is nailed to the outside creating a more secure, yet resource-intensive wall. The amount of wood used is heavy, making even a small barrier cumbersome, time consuming, difficult to erect, even harder to remove, and uses an inordinate amount of building material to construct. 
         [0005]    In light of the above, it would be advantageous to provide a bracket and support system that utilizes fewer building resources, increases safety and productivity, while significantly reducing the time for setup and removal of these safety barriers. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    The handrail and toeboard system of the present invention makes the process by which construction site safety barriers are erected and dismantled significantly more expeditious and less resource-intensive. An embodiment of the present invention is contemplated as a bracket and a support system that provides a connection point for securing the system to the floor of a construction site. The bracket provides mounting points for wooden safety barrier members comprising support rails, handrails, and toeboards. By using several brackets in conjunction with the wooden safety barrier members, a safety barrier can be erected quickly and easily. 
         [0007]    The present invention is formed from a plurality of orthogonally arranged, vertical metal plates, spaced apart to accommodate and secure both horizontal and vertical wooden members, such as a two-by-four, or similar. The handrail and toeboard system has an open ended bottom, arranging wooden safety barrier members flush to the ground with zero clearance between the floor and the wooden members, preventing tools, materials, and debris from slipping through any cracks or spaces. The present invention is further formed with horizontally opposed metal tabs on the bottom portion of the metal plates serving as mounting points for the bracket. 
         [0008]    An additional alternative embodiment of the present invention is formed from a plurality of vertical metal plates and support plates, orthogonally arranged and spaced apart to accommodate and secure both horizontal and vertical wooden members, such as a two-by-four, or similar. The vertical plates comprise a vertical member and integrally formed horizontal members spanning the entire length of the vertical plates. The horizontal members are disposed along the bottom of the vertical members and extend normal to the surface of the vertical members. The vertical metal plates are secured to the support plates through the use of welded joints. The handrail and toeboard system has an even, open ended bottom, arranging wooden safety barrier members flush to the ground with zero clearance between the floor and the wooden members. 
         [0009]    Alternative embodiments of the invention include wood-receiving brackets which are articulable to accommodate placement at different, non-orthogonal, angles along floor, and are particularly useful in circumstances where the floor plan of the construction site is not formed with rectangular corners. 
     
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING 
         [0010]    The objects, features, and advantages of the apparatus of the present invention will be more clearly perceived from the following detailed description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which: 
           [0011]      FIG. 1  is a diagrammatic view of a preferred embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention, showing the handrail and toeboard safety barrier secured to the floor of a construction site, with multiple wooden members creating a toeboard, handrail, and vertical handrail support; 
           [0012]      FIG. 2  is an isometric view of the top-front of a preferred embodiment of a bracket of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 1  showing the position of a handrail support and two (2) toeboards as they interact with vertical plates and support plates of the bracket, in addition to hardware securing the wooden members to the bracket and the flanges used to secure the entire system to the floor; 
           [0013]      FIG. 3 , is a side view of the bracket of  FIG. 2 , depicting two (2) vertical plates, six (6) bolts acting as mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the system to the floor, and showing the placement of the toeboard immediately adjacent the floor surface to prevent the formation of any gap therebetween; 
           [0014]      FIG. 4  is a top view of the bracket of  FIG. 2 , depicting two (2) parallel plates and two (2) support plates, creating a space for a vertical handrail support, six (6) bolts acting as mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0015]      FIG. 5  is an isometric view of the top-front of an alternative preferred embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention, depicting a bracket with two (2) parallel plates, a single support plate, mounting hardware for toeboards, and flanges for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0016]      FIG. 6  is a top view of the top of the alternative preferred embodiment of  FIG. 5 , depicting two (2) vertical plates, single support plate, mounting hardware for toeboards, and flanges for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0017]      FIG. 7  is a side view of the alternative preferred embodiment of  FIG. 5 , depicting the side of one of the two (2) vertical plates, mounting hardware for toeboards, and flanges for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0018]      FIG. 8  is an isometric top view of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention, depicting a bracket with three (3) vertical plates disposed at different distances allowing the use of two (2) different dimensions of wooden members, three (3) support plates, mounting hardware for toeboards and vertical handrail support, and flanges for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0019]      FIG. 9  is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 8 , depicting three (3) parallel plates disposed at different distances allowing the use of two (2) different dimensions of wooden members, three (3) support plates, mounting hardware for toeboards and vertical handrail support, and horizontal brackets for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0020]      FIG. 10  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 8 , depicting the side of a vertical plate, mounting hardware for toeboards and vertical handrail support, and horizontal brackets for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0021]      FIG. 11  is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention depicting a corner bracket having four (4) vertical plates orthogonally disposed, allowing the connection of two (2) toeboards at a right angle, two (2) support plates, mounting hardware for toeboards and vertical handrail support, and flanges for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0022]      FIG. 12  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 11 , depicting the corner bracket with four (4) vertical plates orthogonally disposed, allowing the connection of two (2) toeboard members at a right angle, two (2) support plates, mounting hardware for toeboards and vertical handrail support, and flanges for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0023]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention depicting a bracket having two (2) vertical plates with the middle section of each plate extending perpendicularly upwards, similar to an inverted “T,” with two (2) support plates connecting and securing the vertical plates together; 
           [0024]      FIG. 14  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 13 , depicting a vertical plate with the middle section extending perpendicularly upwards, multiple holes formed in the vertical plates to receive mounting hardware for the toeboards and handrail support, and flanges for securing the system to the floor; 
           [0025]      FIG. 15  is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 13 , depicting two (2) parallel plates, two (2) support plates creating open-ended sections to receive a vertical handrail support and two (2) toeboards, mounting hardware for the toeboards and handrail support, and flanges used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0026]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention depicting a bracket having a rectangular tube arranged vertically and sized to accept a handrail support, with sections of U-channel tubing disposed on opposite side of the rectangular tube sized and oriented to receive toeboards, and flanges used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0027]      FIG. 17  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toe board system bracket of  FIG. 16 , depicting the center rectangular tubing extending above both U-channel tubing sections, holes formed in each portion to accept mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0028]      FIG. 18  is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toe board system bracket of  FIG. 16 , depicting center rectangular tubing with U-channel tubing disposed on opposite sides, and flanges used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0029]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the top-front of alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system depicting a primary section selectively connected to a secondary section by one of two (2) hinge assemblies, allowing angular adjustment between the primary section and secondary section, holes formed to accept mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0030]      FIG. 20  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 19 , depicting the side of the primary section and secondary section connected together by a double barrel hinge assembly, holes formed in the primary section and secondary section to accept mounting hardware, and three (3) flanges used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0031]      FIG. 21  is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 19 , depicting a bracket with a primary section having a space to receive a vertical handrail support and a space to receive a toeboard, connected by one of two double barrel hinge assemblies to a secondary section having a space to receive a toeboard, both sections being formed with holes to receive mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the bracket to the floor; 
           [0032]      FIG. 22  is an perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system depicting a bracket comprising two (2) U-channels connected by one of two (2) double barrel hinge assemblies, allowing adjustment of the angle between the U-channels to accommodate various corner angles, holes formed in each U-channel sized to receive mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the bracket to the floor; 
           [0033]      FIG. 23  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 22 , depicting a bracket comprising two (2) U-channels, connected together by a double barrel hinge assembly, with holes formed the U-channels sized to receive mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the bracket to the floor; 
           [0034]      FIG. 24  is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toe board system of  FIG. 22 , depicting a bracket with two (2) U-channels connected together by two (2) double barrel hinge assemblies, locking the bracket in a straight line, with holes formed the U-channels sized to receive mounting hardware, and flanges used to secure the bracket to the floor; 
           [0035]      FIG. 25  is an isometric view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of a bracket of the handrail and toeboard system showing vertical plates having integral vertical and horizontal members, attached orthogonally to support plates through the use of welded joints; 
           [0036]      FIG. 26  is an isometric exploded view of the of the top-front of the alternative embodiment of the bracket of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 25  showing vertical plates having integral vertical and horizontal members and support plates; 
           [0037]      FIG. 27 , is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toe board system of  FIG. 25 , depicting vertical plate having a vertical member with an attached horizontal member spanning the length of vertical member, and support plate attached to vertical plates using welded joints, with the horizontal member placed onto the floor surface to prevent the formation of any gap therebetween; 
           [0038]      FIG. 28  is an alternative embodiment of the present invention shown in  FIG. 25 ; 
           [0039]      FIG. 29  is an isometric view of the top-front of the bracket of  FIG. 25 , depicting a handrail support fixedly attached to the bracket and a force applied to the handrail support; 
           [0040]      FIG. 30  is an isometric view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention, depicting a bracket with two (2) parallel vertical plates, each having a vertical member and a horizontal member, with a single support plate attached therebetween; 
           [0041]      FIG. 31  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 30 , showing the horizontal member attached to and spanning the length of vertical member, with the horizontal member making direct contact; 
           [0042]      FIG. 32  is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention shown in  FIG. 30 ; 
           [0043]      FIG. 33  is a perspective view of the top-front of alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system depicting a primary section connected to a secondary section by a hinge, allowing angular adjustment between the primary section and secondary section, holes formed to accept mounting hardware, and integral horizontal members used to secure the system to the floor; 
           [0044]      FIG. 34  is a side view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 33 , depicting the side of the primary section and secondary section with horizontal member spanning the length of vertical member and making direct contact with the floor; 
           [0045]      FIG. 35  is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system of  FIG. 33 , depicting a bracket with a primary section having a space to receive a toeboard, connected by a hinge to a secondary section having a space to receive a toeboard, both sections being formed with holes to receive mounting hardware and horizontal members used to secure the bracket to the floor; 
           [0046]      FIG. 36  is a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system depicting a bracket having a flat vertical plate joined to an angled vertical plate by two support plates to form a four-by-four support rail receiver and two adjacent toe board receivers; 
           [0047]      FIG. 37  is front view of the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 36  depicting the flat vertical plate having a horizontal member extending normal from the bottom of the vertical plate and spanning the entire length; 
           [0048]      FIG. 38  is a rear view of the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 36 , depicting the angled vertical plate and attached horizontal member extending from the bottom of the angled vertical plate; 
           [0049]      FIG. 39  is a top view of the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 36  depicting the flat vertical plate joined to the angled vertical plate by two support plates forming a handrail support receiver and two adjacent toeboard receivers; 
           [0050]      FIG. 40  is a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of the handrail and toeboard system depicting a bracket having two angled vertical plates joined together by two support plates to form a four-by-four support rail receiver and two adjacent toe board receivers; 
           [0051]      FIG. 41  is a rear side view of the alternative embodiment of the present invention depicting the angled vertical plate having a horizontal member extending normal from the bottom of the vertical plate on each side of the angled portion; 
           [0052]      FIG. 42  is a top view of the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 40  depicting the two angled vertical plates joined by two support plates forming a handrail support receiver and two adjacent toeboard receivers; 
           [0053]      FIG. 43  is an isometric view of the top-front of the bracket of  FIG. 40 , depicting a handrail support fixedly attached to the bracket and a force applied to the handrail support; 
           [0054]      FIG. 44  is an isometric view of the top-front of the bracket of  FIG. 36 , depicting a handrail support fixedly attached to the bracket and a force applied to the handrail support; 
           [0055]      FIG. 45  is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the bracket of the handrail and toeboard system depicting a two toeboard receivers connected by a hinge, allowing angular adjustment between the two toeboard receivers; and 
           [0056]      FIG. 46  is an isometric, exploded view of the bracket of  FIG. 45 , showing a first toeboard receiver formed with a single sheet of material, second toeboard receiver formed with a single sheet of material, and hinge assembly having two mounting plates. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0057]    Referring initially to  FIG. 1 , a safety handrail and toeboard system safety barrier (“safety barrier”) of the present invention is shown and generally designated  100 . An exemplary construction site is depicted as a partially finished two-story home. Safety barrier  100  is erected on the second floor, utilizing the handrail and toeboard system brackets  200  of the present invention. Safety barrier  100  incorporates toeboard  202 , handrail support  204 , and handrail  206 , all typically wooden members of standard construction dimensions. It is to be appreciated that there are multiple standard dimensions for lumber used in construction. The exemplary use of a “two-by-four” wooden member is not intended to be limiting, as the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention may be formed of wooden members of various other dimensions such as a one-by-four, or even four-by-four wooden members. 
         [0058]    A preferred embodiment of bracket  200  is formed from a single or multiple pieces of steel, formed, forged, welded, or otherwise affixed together to form a solid and strong structure. Other materials known in the art with similar strength characteristics are also contemplated. Materials such as a durable injection-molded plastic, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), some thermoplastics, or other engineering plastics known in the art are useful in the construction of bracket  200  and for the following embodiments discussed below. 
         [0059]    As shown in this Figure, a preferred embodiment of a bracket  200  of the present invention features a toeboard  202  and a handrail support  204  secured to a bracket  200 . Multiple brackets  200  are employed in order to provide a safety barrier  100  that runs the perimeter of the second floor of a construction site. Toeboard  202  establishes direct contact to the floor, with a zero gap, and provides a ledge that eliminates the clearance between the floor and the toeboard  202  to prevent equipment, material, and debris from sliding or rolling off the edge of a construction site. This is an important feature, capable of replication, but not required, in each of the embodiments discussed below. 
         [0060]    Further, handrail support  204  provides a convenient place to secure additional handrail sections  206  to create a handrail and personnel barrier that also runs the perimeter of the construction site and completes safety barrier  100 . As shown below, toeboards  202  and handrail supports  204  are quickly and easily secured to or removed from brackets  200  with the use of nails, screws, or bolts. Similarly, brackets  200  are secured to the floor with screws or bolts through the use of flanges  208  (shown in later Figures) formed perpendicular to the base of brackets  200 , and of the other embodiments discussed. 
         [0061]    Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a perspective view of the top-front of a preferred embodiment of a bracket of the present invention is shown, and generally designated  200 . Bracket  200  includes vertical plates  214 , arranged in a parallel fashion, spaced apart at a sufficient distance to accommodate a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension, for use as toeboard  202  or handrail support  204 . Support plates  216  are attached in place to provide structural support to vertical plates  214  and a mounting surface for handrail support  204  in the middle of bracket  200 . 
         [0062]    Bracket  200  is formed to accommodate three sections of lumber: two toeboards  202  and one handrail support  204 . Holes  212  are formed into the face of the vertical plates  214  in multiple areas in order to accept mounting hardware  210  and provide an attachment point for toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to bracket  200 . Mounting hardware  210  is moved in direction  218  through holes  212  into toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to secure all three sections of lumber in place. Alternatively, a pin  220  may be inserted through holes  221  formed in the vertical plates  214  to prevent the toeboard  202  from lifting upwards and out of the bracket  200 . The use of two brackets  200  will prevent the toeboards from moving in any other direction by locking the toeboard  202  between the brackets  200 . The user can easily remove the toeboard  202  by pulling out the pin and lifting the toeboard  202  up and out. To prevent loss of pin  220 , it may be attached to bracket  200  using a wire, chain, or other similar material. The bottom of bracket  200  is open, allowing toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to directly contact the floor. Similar to mounting hardware  210 , a plurality of flanges  208  are sized to receive mounting hardware  211  such as nails, screws, or bolts, to secure bracket  200  to the floor of a construction site, providing support to the entire safety barrier  100  comprising handrail supports  204  and toeboards  202 . Flanges  208  are spaced evenly apart on each side of the bracket  200  to provide adequate strength to support the handrail support  204  and toeboards  202 , such as the strength requirement to withstand a force of at least 200 pounds as outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 8 §1620. Multiple brackets  200  are then spaced around the perimeter of a construction site in order to provide a quick and easy method for erection of a safety barrier  100 . 
         [0063]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a side view of bracket  200  is shown, with toeboard  202  and handrail support  204  secured in place using mounting hardware  210 . In an embodiment, mounting hardware  210  may be a nail, screw, or bolt. The simplest method of securing either toeboard  202  or handrail support  204  to bracket  200  is through the use of a hole  212  formed in the side of vertical plate  214  through which a nail is driven, securing the toeboard  202  and handrail support  204  in place. In an embodiment, hole  212  is sized to accept screws driven into any of the three wooden members, providing a reusable system, as the screws may be extracted from the wood and used again. Alternatively, a cinch-set system may be employed wherein holes  212  are internally threaded to accept a suitably sized bolt with matching external threads that is tightened and cinched against the toeboard  202  and handrail support  204 , driving the bolt into the wood of toeboard  202  or handrail support  204 , or at least providing sufficient friction to secure the wooden members in place. Flanges  208  are equally spaced apart with each flange  208  located approximately in the middle of each section to provide localized strength to each section. The flanges  208  are attached to the side of vertical plate  214  with the bottom edge of flanges  208  flush with the bottom edge of vertical plate  214 . 
         [0064]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a top view of a preferred embodiment of bracket  200  of  FIG. 3  is shown. A section of toeboard  202  and a section of handrail support  204  are secured to bracket  200  with the use of mounting hardware  210 . Bracket  200  includes vertical plates  214 , arranged in a parallel fashion, spaced apart at a sufficient distance to accommodate a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension, for use as toeboard  202  or handrail support  204 . Support plates  216  are formed or otherwise attached in a perpendicular manner to vertical plate  214  to provide structural support to vertical plates  214  and mounting surface for handrail support  204  in the center of bracket  200 . Flanges  208  are located on both sides of bracket  200 , with each flange  208  having a corresponding flange  208  on the opposite side to provide localized and overall strength and stability to the bracket  200 . 
         [0065]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a perspective view of an alternative preferred embodiment of a bracket of the present invention is shown and generally designated  300 . In this Figure, bracket  300  is formed from two vertical plates  314  similar to  FIG. 2 , but only one support plate  316 , eliminating the area in which handrail support  204  is mounted. This embodiment of bracket  300  is for use with toeboards  202  when a safety barrier  100  does not require handrail supports  204  or handrail sections  206 . The bottom of bracket  300  is open, allowing toeboards  202  to directly contact the floor. The space between vertical plates  314  is adapted for use with two-by-four wooden construction material, but it is to be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the size of bracket  300  may be adapted to fit any standard size lumber dimension. Holes are formed in the sides of the plates  314  to accept mounting hardware  310 , securing the toeboards  202 . Flanges  308  further are formed with holes  309  to accept mounting hardware  311  for securing the bracket  300  to the floor. 
         [0066]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , the top view of bracket  300  is shown. Vertical plates  314  and support plate  316  are again formed to accept standard sized lumber, such as a two-by-four. In this embodiment, bracket  300  joins two abutting toeboards  202 . Using fasteners  310  in combination with threaded fitting  312 , the toeboards  202  can be installed quickly with minimal damage to the toeboards and can be removed just as quickly by simply reversing the threaded fastener  310  from fitting  312 . Bracket  300  may be mounted to the floor using flanges  308  and hardware  311 . 
         [0067]    In the various preferred embodiments of the present invention, the toeboard receiving portions of the brackets include three sides, namely, two parallel vertical walls and an interconnecting vertical wall extending between the vertical walls. For example, with reference to  FIG. 6 , two vertical walls  314  are parallel, and an interconnecting vertical wall  316  cooperates with vertical walls  314  to form a U-channel sized to receive a toeboard  202 . Importantly, and with reference back to  FIG. 5 , it is significant that no portion of bracket  300  is between toeboard  202  and the floor upon which the bracket  300  is mounted. As stated above, this direct contact between toeboard  202  and floor (not shown this Figure) eliminates any gap that is present with other prior art products. The absence of any gap provides a much higher degree of safety for the devices of the present invention. 
         [0068]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a side view of bracket  300  is shown depicting the placement of toeboards  202  within bracket  300  and secured by threaded fastener  310  in direct contact with the floor eliminating the clearance between the toeboard  202  and floor, preventing equipment, material, and debris from sliding under the toeboard  202  and falling off the construction site. The three flanges  308  formed or otherwise affixed to the bottom of vertical plates  314  are shown. The center flange  308  is secured to the floor by mounting hardware  311 , while the other two flanges  308  are shown in dashed lines where they appear on the opposite side of bracket  300 . 
         [0069]    Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown and generally designated  400 . Bracket  400  includes vertical plates  414  and  415 , arranged in a parallel fashion, spaced apart at a sufficient distance  422  to accommodate a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension, for use as toeboard  202  or handrail support  204 . Support plates  416  are formed or otherwise attached substantially perpendicular to vertical plates  415  and  414  providing structural support and a mounting surface for handrail support  204  in the middle of bracket  400 . Vertical plate  413  is spaced apart from and behind vertical plate  414  a sufficient distance  420 , which is generally smaller than the distance  422  between vertical plates  414  and  415 . In this alternative embodiment, thickness  420  may be approximately one inch to receive board thickness 1″ or less. 
         [0070]    Bracket  400  is formed to accommodate five sections of lumber: four toeboards  202  and one handrail support  204 . Holes  412  are formed into the face of the vertical plates  415  and  413  of bracket  400  in multiple areas in order to accept the mounting hardware  410  and provide attachment points for toeboards  202  and handrail support  204 . Mounting hardware  410  is moved in direction  418  through holes  412  in vertical plate  415  into toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to secure the front three sections of lumber in place. Mounting hardware  410  is moved in the opposite direction of  418  through holes  412  of vertical plate  413  into toeboards  202  to secure the back two toeboards  202  in place. Alternatively, pin  432  may be inserted through holes  430  to keep toeboards  202  from lifting up and out of bracket  400  instead of using the mounting hardware  410 . Multiple brackets  400  are then spaced around the perimeter of a construction site in order to provide a quick and easy method for construction of a safety barrier  100  for personnel and equipment. 
         [0071]    In an embodiment, in order to accommodate the pins  432 , holes (not shown) are drilled through the toeboards  202  to receive the pins  432 , in use. In an alternative embodiment, the vertical plates  413 ,  414 , and  415  are taller that the toeboards  202  in use, and do not require the drilling of such holes through the toeboards, allowing the pins  432  to pass through the holes  430  over the top of toeboards  202  in use. This characteristic can be applied to any of the embodiments discussed herein. Additionally, by providing an apparatus that is capable of securing a toeboard within a bracket positioned immediately against the floor, and that is capable of being quickly removed, such as during the installation and removal process, the present invention is significantly more useful and far more efficient to use. 
         [0072]    Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a top view of bracket  400  is shown, and depicts the placement of the front toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  secured within bracket  400 . Flanges  408  are attached to the exterior of vertical plates  413  and  415  flush with the bottom of plates  413 ,  414 , and  415  resulting in a flat bottom, to provide mounting points for bracket  400 . The flanges  408  are formed with holes and allow the use of mounting hardware  411  or other mechanical fasteners to quickly and easily be used to mount bracket  400  to the construction site. 
         [0073]    Referring now to  FIG. 10  is a side view of the bracket  400  showing the fasteners  210  used to secure the toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to bracket  400 . The toeboards  202  directly contact the floor eliminating any clearance between the toeboards  202  and the floor to prevent equipment, material, and debris from falling off the side of a construction site. 
         [0074]    Referring now to  FIG. 11 , a top view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention is shown and generally designated  500 . Bracket  500  includes a handrail support receiver  502  and two toeboard receivers  506  and  510 . Handrail support receiver  502  comprises four vertical walls of predetermined height arranged to form a substantially square or rectangular cross section having open ends, sized to receive a handrail support  504  such as a four-by-four wooden member shown. 
         [0075]    The four vertical walls provide a surface to support and mount handrail support  504 . As shown, handrail support receiver is sized to receive a four-by-four, two two-by-fours, or other symmetrical wooden member, however it is to be appreciated that handrail support receiver  502  may also be sized to receive a single two-by-four or other non-symmetrical wooden member without departing from the invention. A pair of toeboard receivers  506  and  510  extends from the exterior wall of handrail support receiver  502  to create a ninety (90) degree angle between the two toeboards  202  installed within toeboard receivers  506  and  510 . 
         [0076]    Multiple holes  513  are formed in the exterior of bracket  500  and sized to accept mounting hardware  514 . As before, mounting hardware  514  can be any practical fastener known in the art, such as nails, bolts, or screws. Quick release fasteners (not shown) such as pins  432  from  FIG. 8  are also contemplated. 
         [0077]    Multiple flanges  516  are formed or otherwise attached about the base of the bracket  500  and formed with holes  517  through which mounting hardware  518  (shown in  FIG. 12 ) is used to fasten bracket  500  to the floor. 
         [0078]    Bracket  500  is intended for use on corners to provide a secure mount for toeboards  508  and  512  and handrail supports  504 . It is appreciated by those skilled in the art that bracket  500  may be adapted for use in any type of corner such as a 45 degree corner. 
         [0079]      FIG. 12  shows a side view of bracket  500  having toeboards  508  and  512  secured within receivers  506  and  510 . From this view, it can be seen that the toeboards  508  and  512  and vertical support  504  make direct contact with the floor and are securely mounted within bracket  500 . Bracket  500  is further secured to the floor using mounting hardware  518  inserted through the holes  517  formed in the flanges  516 . 
         [0080]    Referring now to  FIG. 13 , a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of a bracket of the handrail and toeboard system of the present invention is shown and generally designated  600 . Bracket  600  includes two vertical plates  602  and  604 , each plate having a middle section extending perpendicularly upwards, similar in shape to an inverted “T.” Vertical plate  602  and vertical plate  604  are spaced apart a predetermined distance to accommodate a standard sized piece of lumber and held in place by supporting plate  606  and  608 . Supporting plates  606  and  608  are spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance to accommodate a standard sized piece of lumber, resulting in three distinct open ended sections: a center handrail support section to receive a handrail support  204 , and two toeboard sections for receiving toeboards  202 . The handrail support section has a greater height than the toeboard sections, providing a larger contact surface for the handrail support  204 , increasing strength and stability of the overall system  100 . The open bottom of the three sections of bracket  600  allow the handrail support  204  and toeboards  202  to sit flush against the ground, preventing material and debris from slipping under the toeboards  202 . 
         [0081]    Multiple flanges  610  are formed or otherwise attached to the base of bracket  600  providing a mounting point to the floor. The flanges  610  are spaced equally apart with one flange  610  located at the midpoint of vertical plate  602  with a flange  610  located on each side of the midpoint flange  610 . Corresponding flanges  610  are located on the opposite side of bracket  600 . The locations of the flanges  610  provide localized and overall strength and stability to bracket  600  to withstand a minimum amount of force, such as the strength requirement to withstand a force of at least 200 pounds as outlined in California Code of Regulations. The flanges  610  each can be formed with a gusset  611  between the vertical and horizontal members to provide additional structural strength and integrity. Flanges  610  are formed with a hole  617  to accept mounting hardware  614  and serve as a mounting point to fasten bracket  600  to a supporting structure. 
         [0082]    Each vertical plate  602  and  604  is formed with multiple holes  612  through which hardware, shown here as exemplary nail  615 , can be driven or otherwise screwed or inserted, into handrail support  204  or toeboards  202  to secure the handrail support  204  or toeboards  202  in place. 
         [0083]    Referring now to  FIG. 14 , a side view of bracket  600  is shown, with toeboard  202  and handrail support  204  sitting flush on the ground. Mounting hardware  614  is inserted through flanges  610  securing the bracket  600  to the floor. Likewise, mounting hardware  615  is shown as it would be inserted to mount handrail support  204 . This Figure also shows the inverted “T” shape of the vertical plates  602  and  604  that provide a larger contact surface  607  in the area adjacent to the handrail support  204 , increasing strength and stability of the system  100  with brackets  600  in use. 
         [0084]    Referring now to  FIG. 15 , a plan view of bracket  600  is shown. Handrail support  204  is secured to bracket  600  by hardware  615  inserted through holes  612  of vertical plate  602  and  604 . Toeboards  202  can be secured by additional hardware  615  driven or screwed into the toeboards  202 , or by pins  616  as shown. Referring briefly back to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the lateral portions  603  of vertical plates  602  and  604  are shown to have a height  605 , corresponding substantially to the analogous vertical dimension of toeboards  202 . In such an embodiment, mounting hardware  615  may be required to secure toeboards  202 . 
         [0085]    In an alternative preferred embodiment, the height  605  of vertical plates  602  and  604  are taller than the wooden members used for the toeboards  202 , eliminating the requirement to drive any hardware into or through the toeboard  202  to secure it. In such a configuration, the holes  613  on vertical bracket  602  and  604  are aligned in a plane above the toeboards  202 , allowing the pin  616  to move through both plates in a straight line and retain toeboard  202 , similar to  FIG. 2 . Pins  616  then prevent the toeboards  202  from coming out of bracket  600  vertically while an additional bracket  600  at the opposite end of toeboard  202  secures the toeboard  202  horizontally in place. 
         [0086]    Referring now to  FIG. 16 , a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of a bracket of the present invention is shown and generally designated  700 . Bracket  700  is formed of a rectangular tube  702 , sized to accommodate standard sized lumber, with several holes  708  formed in the tubing to receive mounting hardware and serve as mounting points for the handrail support  204  (not shown). Rectangular tube  702  further has two U-channels  704  and  706  formed to, or otherwise attached to rectangular tube  702 , oriented such that the open portion of the U-channels  704  and  706  for receiving toeboards  202  are oriented away from and on opposing sides of the rectangular tube  702 . U-channels  704  and  706  dimensions are sized to receive standard-sized lumber as previously described. An embodiment of bracket  700  has a rectangular tube  702  with a greater height than U-channels  704  and  706 , providing an increased contact surface for handrail support  204 , increasing stability and strength. Formed or otherwise attached to each face of bracket  700  are flanges  710  which may be made of L-shaped steel or any material with the similar characteristics and dimensions. The L-shaped steel is formed with holes  718  on one side to accept hardware  720  for mounting. The side without holes are formed or otherwise attached to the side of bracket  700 , with the length of the flange  710  extending the entire length of the bracket across U-channel  704 , U-channel  706 , and rectangular tube  702 . On the opposite side of bracket  700  is another flange  710  formed or otherwise attached. The locations and structure of flanges  710  give the bracket  700  additional strength to withstand a minimum amount of force, such as the strength requirement to withstand a force of at least 200 pounds as outlined in California Code of Regulations. Flanges  710  are employed to mount bracket  700  to a structure and provide lateral stability and structural strength to system  100  when mounted to a structure. 
         [0087]    Pin  712  may further be employed, being inserted through holes  716  in the U-channels  704  and  706  preventing toeboards  202  from moving vertically out of the U-channels  704  and  706 , similar to the structure of previous embodiments. 
         [0088]    Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a side view of bracket  700  is shown, and depicts the rectangular tube  702  and U-channels  704  and  706  disposed on opposite sides of rectangular tube  702 . In a preferred embodiment, all three sections have open ends to allow toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to directly contact the floor. 
         [0089]    By utilizing U-channels  704  and tube  702 , the manufacturing complexity can be significantly reduced, which results in a corresponding decrease in manufacturing costs. The use of pre-formed U-channel and tubing  702 , which can be cut to length for implementation in the present invention allows for the reduction in the costs of materials to manufacture the present invention. Moreover, the manufacturing effort required to form the devices of the present invention are significantly decreased when the formation can be achieved through the selective attachment of U-channel and tube pieces, such as through welding, instead of the option requiring the complex welding of discrete metal sheeting. 
         [0090]    Referring now to  FIG. 18 , a plan view of bracket  700  is shown, depicting the rectangular tube  702  where U-channel  704  and U-channel  706  are formed or otherwise attached to opposite sides of the rectangular tube  702 . The U-channels  704  and  706  are shown with holes  716  to receive a pin  712  and prevent the toeboards  202  from moving upwards and out of bracket  700 . 
         [0091]    Referring now to  FIG. 19 , a perspective view of the top-front of an alternative embodiment of a bracket of the present invention is shown and generally designated  800 . Bracket  800  incorporates a primary section, generally labeled  810 , and a secondary section, generally labeled  820 , joined together at hinge assemblies  830  and/or  832 . Primary section  810  is formed from a rectangular tube  812  formed or otherwise attached to a U-channel  814 . The U-channel  814  is formed to or otherwise securely attached to the rectangular tube  812 , creating a singular component. The rectangular tube  812  can have a generally greater height than U-channel  814  providing more contact area to the handrail support  204 , increasing the strength and stability. U-channel  814  is sized to accept a toeboard  202 , while the interior dimensions of rectangular tube  812  are sized to accept a hand rail support  204  as in previous embodiments. Secondary section  820  is formed as a U-channel  822 , also sized to accept a toeboard  202  as previously described. 
         [0092]    Both the primary section  810  and the secondary section  820  are formed with multiple holes  802  sized to accept hardware  804  used to secure toeboards  202  or handrail supports  204  as in previous embodiments. 
         [0093]    Multiple flanges  816  are also formed or otherwise attached to the base of primary section  810  and secondary section  820 , each formed with a hole  817  sized to accept mounting hardware  818 . Mounting hardware  818  is used to secure bracket  800  to the structure as in previous embodiments. Gussets  819  may further be formed to the flanges  816 , increasing strength of the bracket  800 . 
         [0094]    In an embodiment, pins  846  can be inserted through holes  848  formed in each of the U-channels  814  and  822  to secure toeboards  202  in use. Alternatively, holes similar to previous embodiment may also be formed in the U-channels  814  and  822  and sized to accept mounting hardware, securing toeboards  202 . 
         [0095]    In an alternative embodiment, at least one hinge assembly  830  or  832  selectively joins primary section  810  to secondary section  820 , providing flexibility in selection of the horizontal angle to which the bracket  800  is set. Hinge assemblies  830  and  832  allow the bracket  800  to be set to a particular angle allowing use of a bracket  800  at a corner, similar to the embodiment of  FIG. 11 , but without limiting the application to a single, fixed angle. Depending on which hinge assembly  830  or  832  is in use, the user may select a left or right angle (as viewed from above) as desired. Use of both hinge assemblies  830  and  832  simultaneously, provides a straight bracket, as neither hinge assembly  830  and  832  is allowed to pivot. 
         [0096]    As is common in the art, hinge assemblies  830  and  832  (shown in  FIG. 21 ) are formed from complementary, opposing barrels formed on opposite sides of the surfaces to be joined, with a pin inserted through the central lumen  844  created by the mated barrels creating a pivot axis  850  about which the hinge rotates. Hinge assemblies  830  and  832  are shown in this and the following Figures as a double barrel hinge. This characteristic should not be considered limiting, as many other variations of a detachable hinges are possible. In an alternative embodiment, double hinges may be incorporated allowing the primary section  810  and secondary section  820  to hinge both directions for 180 degrees. 
         [0097]    As shown in this Figure, both of the vertical edges of the facing sides of the primary section  810  and secondary section  820  are each formed with barrels  836 ,  838  (shown in  FIG. 21 ),  840 , and  842 , shown as having two leaves each. The primary section  810  has two barrels  838  and  842  that mate with complementary barrels  836  and  840  formed on the secondary section  820 , facing the primary section  810 . When the two sides of the complementary barrels  836 - 838 , and/or  840 - 842  are mated together, a central lumen such as the central lumen  844  of the barrels  840 - 842  provide a clearance fit for the insertion of a retaining pin  834  completing the hinge assembly and allowing the primary section  810  and secondary section  820  to pivot about the pin  834 . This provides the user the option to select which hinge assembly ( 830  or  832 ) to use, and set the appropriate angle for bracket  800  accordingly. In an embodiment, a portion of the central lumen of the hinge assembly  830  or  832  can be internally threaded to accept an externally threaded retaining pin  834 , increasing the security of the hinge assembly  830  or  832 . 
         [0098]    Referring to  FIG. 20 , a side view of bracket  800  is shown. The rectangular tube  812  is shown with greater in height than U-channel  814  of the primary section  810  and U-channel  822  of the secondary section; however this should not be considered as limiting. The height of the rectangular tube  812  can be the same as U-channels  814  and  822  or as high as practical providing increased stability and strength to bracket  800 . 
         [0099]    Referring now to  FIG. 21 , a plan view of the bracket  800  is shown, depicting hinge assembly  830  in use, with the secondary section  820  rotated away from the primary section about axis  850  defined by retaining pin  834  and hinge assembly  830 . Barrels  836  and  838  are shown separated on the opposite side of the mating faces of primary section  810  and secondary section  820 . 
         [0100]    As shown, pin  834  is inserted through barrels  840 - 842 , creating a pivot axis  850  between the primary section  810  and the secondary section  820 . Placing a retaining pin in the alternate set of barrels  836 - 838  (completing hinge assembly  832 ) allows the sections to pivot in the opposite direction. By inserting a retaining pin  834  on both sets of corresponding barrels  836 - 838  and  840 - 842 , the primary  810  and secondary sections  820  may be locked in a straight line. 
         [0101]    Referring now to  FIG. 22 , an angular top-front view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket of the present invention, generally designated  900 , is shown, comprising two U-channels  902  and  904  selectively joined with the use of a hinge assembly  910 . Hinge assembly  910  has a barrel  908  (formed to U-channel  902 ) which mates with barrel  909  (formed to U-channel  904 ) creating a central lumen  911  and a clearance fit for the insertion of retaining pin  906 . As in previous Figures, the use of a double barrel hinge assembly  910  should not be considered limiting, as other hinges known in the art are fully contemplated. 
         [0102]    Retaining pin  906  defines a pivot axis  914  when inserted in central lumen  911 , allowing the two U-channels  902  and  904  to be adjusted as required for the toeboard  202  angles. Barrels  922  and  924  are shown separated and rotated away from each other, but can, at the user&#39;s discretion, be mated together forming a hinge assembly  926  and secured with an identical retaining pin  907  in the same manner as hinge assembly  910  (shown in  FIG. 24 ). 
         [0103]    U-channels  902  and  904  are formed similar to previous embodiments, sized to accept standard-sized lumber for use as toeboards  202 . The embodiment shown in this Figure is primarily for use with toeboards  202 , given the lack of provisions for a handrail support  204 . 
         [0104]    This embodiment is further formed with multiple flanges  916  each with a hole  918  on the horizontal portion of the flange  916  sized to accept hardware  919  that serves to secure the bracket  900  to the structure. Flanges  916  are formed with gussets  917  for increased strength. 
         [0105]    As with previous embodiments, a pin  920  is insertable through holes  922  formed in each U-channel  902  and  904  to secure a toeboard  202  once inserted into either U-channel  902  or U-channel  904 . 
         [0106]    Referring now to  FIG. 23 , a side view of bracket  900  is shown, comprising two U-channels  902  and  904  connected together at hinge assembly  910 . The height of the U-channels  902  and  904  are substantially the same, however the dimensions of the U-channels  902  and  904  can be modified to accommodate any standard sized lumber for toeboards  202 . 
         [0107]    Referring to  FIG. 24 , a plan view of bracket  900  is shown, showing the U-channels  902  and  904  connected together at both hinge assembly  910  and hinge assembly  926 . As shown, the barrels  908 - 909  and barrels  920 - 922  of the hinge assemblies  910  and  926  are aligned and each has a retaining pin  907  or  908  inserted through them. By inserting both pins  907  and  908 , the bracket  900  is locked in a straight line. Alternatively, by removing either pin  907  or  908 , the bracket can be used to accommodate various angles for installation. Indeed, this embodiment of the present invention is universally adaptable to all installations of the construction safety handrail and toeboard system regardless of the floor plan of the worksite, allowing the articulation of the U-channel  902  to form an acute or obtuse angle with U-channel  904 . 
         [0108]    Referring now to  FIG. 25 , a perspective view of the top-front of a preferred embodiment of a bracket of the present invention is shown, and generally designated  1200 . Bracket  1200  includes vertical plates  1214 , arranged in a parallel fashion, spaced apart at a sufficient distance to accommodate a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension, for use as toeboard  202  or handrail support  204 . Support plates  1216  are attached in place to provide structural support to vertical plates  1214  and a mounting surface for handrail support  204  in the middle of bracket  1200 . 
         [0109]    Each vertical plate  1214  is a single, continuous unit comprising a horizontal member  1218  transitioned into a vertical member  1220  by a bend  1222 . Support plates  1216  are attached to and between vertical plates  1214  at a predetermined distance to accommodate the width of a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension. The support plates  1216  are attached to vertical plates  1214  by a plurality of welded joints  1224 . 
         [0110]    Bracket  1200  is formed to accommodate three sections of lumber: two toeboards  202  and one handrail support  204 . Holes  1212  are formed into the face of the vertical plates  1214  in multiple areas in order to accept mounting hardware and provide an attachment point for toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to bracket  1200 . Alternatively, a pin  1230  may be inserted through holes  1212  formed in the vertical plates  1214  to prevent the toeboard  202  from lifting upwards and out of the bracket  1200 . 
         [0111]    The bottom of bracket  1200  is open and the horizontal members  1218  of the vertical plates  1214  sit flush on the floor, allowing toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to directly contact the floor. The horizontal members  1218  have a plurality of holes  1226  sized to receive mounting hardware such as nails, screws, or bolts, to secure bracket  1200  to the floor of a construction site, providing support to safety barrier  100  comprising handrail supports  204  and toeboards  202 . The bracket  1200 , while anchored to a base floor will withstand a minimum force of two-hundred (200) pounds exerted at the top of a 45-inch tall handrail support connected to bracket  1200  as outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 8 §1620. 
         [0112]    Referring now to  FIG. 26 , an exploded view of bracket  1200  of the present invention is shown. The bracket  1200  consists of two vertical plates  1214  and two support plates  1216  wherein the two vertical plates  1214  are substantially similar and the two support plates  1216  are substantially similar. 
         [0113]    Each vertical plate  1214  is a single, continuous unit comprising a horizontal member  1218  transitioned into a vertical member  1220  by a bend  1222 . Vertical member  1220  is orientated substantially vertical whereas horizontal member  1218  is disposed normal to the surface of vertical member  1220  at the bend  1222  in a substantially horizontally orientation resulting in vertical plate  1214  having an L-shaped cross section. The vertical member  1220  has a plurality of through mortise  1240 , a rectangular hole that passes entirely through the vertical member  1220 . Additionally, the vertical member  1220  has a plurality of holes  1212  formed into the face of the vertical member  1214  in multiple areas in order to accept mounting hardware and provide an attachment point for toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to bracket  1200 . The horizontal member  1218  of each vertical plate  1214  spans the entire length of the vertical member  1220  and provides a large surface area to contact a base floor. The large surface area provides strength, stability, and durability to bracket  1200 . Additionally, a plurality of holes  1226  is formed into the face of horizontal member  1218  sized to receive mounting hardware such as nails, screws, or bolts, to secure bracket  1200  to the floor of a construction site. 
         [0114]    Each support plate  1216  is made of a flat piece of material having a plurality of tenons  1242 , protrusions at the edge of the support plate  1216 , oriented and sized to fit the mortise  1240  on vertical member  1220 . The edge of the support plate  1216  in which the tenon  1242  extends serves as shoulders that seat against the vertical member  1220  when the tenon  1242  fully enters the through mortise  1240 . The location of the tenons  1242  on support plate  1216  corresponds to the locations of the through mortise  1240  on vertical plates  1214 . 
         [0115]    The vertical plates  1214  and support plates  1216  are aligned and fitted together by utilizing the corresponding through mortises  1240  and tenons  1242 . The joints  1224  (shown in  FIG. 25 ) created by the through mortise  1240  and tenons  1242  are welded to increase strength, stability, and durability. The vertical plates  1214  are oriented where the horizontal members  1218  of each vertical plate  1214  are pointed in opposite directions. 
         [0116]    By using mortise  1240  and tenons  1242 , the number and the length of welds are decreased, reducing the time and material needed to create bracket  1200 . In the embodiment, bracket  1200  is made of steel to provide structural strength and rigidity, however, may be made of any material having similar physical characteristics, ensuring bracket  1200  provides the minimum strength requirements needed to withstand a two-hundred (200) pound force exerted at the top of a 45-inch tall handrail support connected to bracket  1200  as outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 8 §1620. Additionally, by having a minimum number of different parts, here two (2) different parts, the cost of manufacturing and assembly is reduced. 
         [0117]    Referring now to  FIG. 27 , a side view of bracket  1200  is shown with toeboard  202  and handrail support  204  in place and secured using mounting hardware  1210 . In an embodiment, hole  1212  is sized to accept mounting hardware  1210  such as screws driven into any of the three wooden members, providing a reusable system, as the screws may be extracted from the wood and used again. The bottom of bracket  1200  is open and the horizontal members  1218  sit flush on the floor, allowing toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to directly contact the floor. As shown, the horizontal member  1218  of each vertical plate  1214  spans the entire length of vertical member  1220  providing the strength and durability to meet the requirements for protective rails outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 8 §1620. 
         [0118]    Referring now to  FIG. 28 , a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention shown in  FIG. 25  is shown and generally designated  1260 . Bracket  1260  is substantially similar to bracket  1200  of  FIG. 25 . Bracket  1260  includes vertical plates  1262 , arranged in a parallel fashion, spaced apart at a sufficient distance to accommodate a standard two by four section of lumber or other standard construction dimension, and joined together by support plates  1264 . The vertical plates  1260  and support plates  1264  are joined together by using joint welds or any other attachment means known in the art. The vertical plates  1262  and support plates  1264  do not utilize a through mortise and tenon joint and therefore do not have associated mortise and tenon resulting in vertical plates  1260  having a flat, continuous surface and support plates  1264  having flat edges. In the embodiment, bracket  1260  is made of steel to provide structural strength and rigidity, however, may be made of any material having similar physical characteristics, ensuring bracket  1260  provides the minimum strength requirements needed to withstand a two-hundred (200) pound force exerted at the top of a 45-inch tall handrail support connected to bracket  1200  as outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 8 §1620. Additionally, for less strenuous and demanding applications, bracket  1260  may be made of plastics, polymers, or any other similar materials. 
         [0119]    Referring now to  FIG. 29 , bracket  1200  of the present invention anchored to a construction site floor with handrail support  204  fixedly attached is shown. The handrail support  204  is fixedly attached to bracket  1200  by inserting hardware  1210  through holes  1212  formed into vertical members  1220  of vertical plate  1214  and driving them into the handrail support  204 . Bracket  1200  is anchored to a construction site floor by inserting hardware  1210  through holes  1226  formed in horizontal member  1218  of bracket  1200  and driving them into a construction site floor. The horizontal members  1218  sits flat on the construction site floor, providing a large surface area contacting the construction site floor to provide strength, stability, and durability. 
         [0120]    As illustrated, the handrail support  204  is fixedly attached to bracket  1200 . Bracket  1200  is anchored to the construction site floor and serves as an anchor for the handrail support  204 . A two-hundred (200) pound force  1250  is exerted on handrail support  204  at a load point height  1252  vertically forty-five (45) inches from the construction floor. By fixedly attaching handrail support  204  to an anchored bracket  1200 , the handrail support  204  and bracket  1200  is similar to a vertical cantilever beam in which one end is fixedly attached and the other end is free to move. 
         [0121]    For a cantilever beam, if a load or force is applied at the free end of the beam, opposite forces and a moment results at the fixed end. The moment and forces the beam experiences are proportional to the magnitude of the load and the distance the load is from the fixed end. For a single load on a cantilever beam, the bending moment at the fixed end would be the magnitude of the load multiplied by the distance the load is from the fixed end. 
         [0122]    At the fixed end, the bracket  1200  anchored to the construction site floor would experience the greatest forces. With a two-hundred (200) pound force  1250  exerted on handrail support  204  at the load point height  1252  vertically forty-five (45) inches from the construction floor, the bending moment at the bracket  1200  will be 9,000 pound inches or 750 pound feet. Thus, the bracket  1200  is designed and manufactured to be able to withstand a minimum of 9,000 pound inches or 750 pound feet. 
         [0123]    Referring now to  FIG. 30 , a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown and generally designated  1300 . In this figure, bracket  1300  is formed with two vertical plates  1314  and one support plate  1316 , resulting in two toeboard receivers. Vertical plate  1314  includes a vertical member  1320  integrally formed with a horizontal member  1318 , transitioning from the vertical member  1320  to the horizontal member  1318  with a bend  1322 . 
         [0124]    Support plate  1316  is attached between vertical plates  1314  at a predetermined distance to accommodate the width of a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension by a plurality of welded through-mortise and tenon joints  1324 . The vertical plate  1314  has a plurality of mortise, a rectangular hole passing entirely through the vertical member  1320 . Support plate  1316  has a plurality of tenons, protrusions at the edge of the support plate  1316  oriented and sized to fit the rectangular holes on vertical member  1320  with the base of the support plate  1316  acting as shoulders that seat when the protrusion fully enters the rectangular hole. The pieces are joined to create joint  1324  and welded to increase strength and durability. 
         [0125]    This embodiment of bracket  1300  is for use with toeboards  202  when a safety barrier  100  does not require handrail supports  204  or handrail sections  206 . The bottom of bracket  1300  is open, allowing toeboards  202  to directly contact the floor. The space between vertical plates  1314  is adapted for use with two-by-four wooden construction material, but it is to be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the size of bracket  1300  may be adapted to fit any standard size lumber dimension. A plurality of holes  1312  are formed in the sides of the plates  1314  to accept mounting hardware  1310 , securing the toeboards  202 . Alternatively, a pin  1330  may be inserted through holes  1312  formed in the vertical plates  1314  to prevent the toeboard  202  from lifting upwards and out of the bracket  1300 . The horizontal members  1318  of vertical plates  1314  are formed with holes  1326  to accept mounting hardware for securing bracket  1300  to the floor. 
         [0126]    Referring now to  FIG. 31 , a side view of bracket  1300  is shown. As shown, the horizontal member  1318  of vertical plate  1314  spans the entire length of vertical member  1320  providing the strength and durability to support toeboards  202 . Bracket  1300  is shown mounted to the floor with hardware  1311  using holes  1326  in horizontal members  1318 . Toeboards  202  are anchored to bracket  1300  using hardware  1310 . The bottom of bracket  1300  is open and the horizontal members  1318  sit flush on the floor, allowing toeboards  202  to directly contact the floor, preventing equipment, material, and debris from sliding under the toeboard  202  and falling off the construction site. 
         [0127]    Referring now to  FIG. 32 , a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 30  is shown and generally designated  1350 . Bracket  1350  is substantially similar to bracket  1300  of  FIG. 30 . Bracket  1350  includes vertical plates  1354  joined together by support plate  1356 . The vertical plates  1354  and support plate  1356  of bracket  1350  do not utilize a through mortise and tenon joint and therefore do not have associated mortise and tenon, resulting in vertical plates  1354  having a flat, continuous surface and support plate  1364  having flat edges. In the preferred embodiment, bracket  1350  is made of steel to provide structural strength and rigidity, however may be made of any material having similar physical characteristics. Additionally, for less strenuous and demanding applications, bracket  1350  may be made of plastics, polymers, or any other similar materials. The vertical plates  1354  and support plate  1356  are joined together by using joint welds or any other attachment means known in the art. 
         [0128]    Referring now to  FIG. 33 , a top-front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a bracket of the present invention, generally designated  1500 , is shown, comprising a primary section  1510  and secondary section  1540  joined with the use of a hinge  1530 . Bracket  1500  is generally used to secure two toeboards at an angle relative to one another. The hinge  1530  attaches the primary section  1510  and secondary section  1540  together and provides a vertical axis in which the primary section  1510  and secondary section  1540  pivot. Hinge  1530  allow bracket  1500  to be set to a particular angle between zero and ninety (90) degrees for use at a corner or other circumstances which requires it. 
         [0129]    Primary section  1510  comprises one support plate  1512  orthogonally arranged and attached to the end of two parallel vertical plates  1514 . Vertical plate  1514  comprises a horizontal member  1516 , integrally formed and spanning the entire length of a vertical member  1518 , wherein the horizontal member  1516  transitions into the vertical member  1518  by a bend  1520 . The support plate  1512  is attached to the vertical plates  1514  using welded joints or other similar attachment methods known in the art. Alternatively, the primary section  1510  may be constructed using a single piece of material formed into the appropriate shape. Vertical plates  1514  are spaced apart at a sufficient distance to accommodate the thickness of a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension, for use as toeboard support  202  and oriented where the horizontal members  1516  of each vertical plate  1514  are pointed in opposite directions. A plurality of holes  1504  are formed into the vertical plates  1514 . 
         [0130]    Secondary section  1540  comprises one support plate  1542  orthogonally arranged and attached to the end of two parallel vertical plates  1544 . Vertical plate  1544  comprises a horizontal member  1546 , integrally formed and spanning the entire length of a vertical member  1548 , wherein the horizontal member  1546  transitions into the vertical member  1548  by a bend  1550 . Vertical plates  1544  are spaced apart at a sufficient distance to accommodate the thickness of a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension, for use as toeboard support  202  and oriented where the horizontal members  1546  of each vertical plate  1544  are pointed in opposite directions. The support plate  1542  is attached to the vertical plates  1544  using the same method as described in the primary section  1510 . Horizontal member  1546  on the side of vertical plate  1544  connected to hinge  1530  has a section removed to accommodate the width of the horizontal member  1516  of vertical plate  1514 . This allows the primary section  1510  and secondary section  1540  to pivot to a ninety (90) degree angle without interference between the horizontal members  1516  and  1546 . 
         [0131]    Both the primary section  1510  and the secondary section  1540  have open ended bottoms. Horizontal members  1516  and  1546  sit flush on the floor, allowing toeboards  202  to directly contact the floor. The horizontal members  1516  and  1546  have holes  1508  sized to receive mounting hardware such as nails, screws, or bolts, to secure bracket  1500  to the floor of a construction site. Vertical plates  1514  and  1544  are formed with multiple holes  1504  sized to accept hardware used to secure toeboards  202 . Alternatively, a pin (not shown) may be inserted through holes  1504  formed in the vertical plates  1514  and  1544  to prevent the toeboard  202  from lifting upwards and out of the bracket  1500 . 
         [0132]    Referring now to  FIG. 34 , a side view of bracket  1500  is shown, comprising a primary section  1510  and a secondary section  1540  connected together at hinge  1530 . The height of the primary and secondary sections  1510  and  1540  are substantially the same, however the dimensions of the primary and secondary sections  1510  and  1540  can be modified to accommodate any standard sized lumber for toeboards  202 . The horizontal members  1516  and  1546  are flush with the ground and the open ended bottom of bracket  1500  allows toeboards  202  to directly contact the floor, leaving zero clearance and preventing equipment, material, and debris from sliding under the bracket  1500  and falling off the construction site. 
         [0133]    Referring finally to  FIG. 35 , a plan view of the bracket  1500  is shown, depicting primary section  1510  pivoted along the vertical axis of the hinge  1530  at an angle from the secondary section  1540 . The horizontal members  1516  of vertical plate  1514  of the primary section  1510  and the horizontal members  1546  of vertical plate  1544  of the secondary section  1540  span the entire length to provide strength and durability to support toeboards  202 . As illustrated, horizontal member  1546  on the side of vertical plate  1544  connected to hinge  1530  has a section removed to accommodate the width of the horizontal member  1516  of vertical plate  1514 . This allows the primary section  1510  and secondary section  1540  to pivot to a ninety (90) degree angle without interference between the horizontal members  1516  and  1546 . 
         [0134]    Referring now to  FIG. 36 , a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown and generally designated  1600 . Vertical plate  1610  and an angled vertical plate  1620  are arranged in parallel fashion, spaced apart at a sufficient distance, and joined together by support plates  1630  to form bracket  1600  having a support rail receiver  1622  and adjacent toeboard receivers  1632 . Support rail receiver  1622  is formed to receive a standard four-by-four section of lumber and toeboard receiver  1632  is formed to receive a standard two-by-four section of lumber, or other standard construction dimension. 
         [0135]    Vertical plate  1610  is a single, continuous piece comprising a horizontal member  1614  and a vertical member  1612 , wherein the horizontal member  1614  transitions to the vertical member  1612  by a bend  1616 . Vertical member  1612  is orientated substantially vertical whereas horizontal member  1614  is disposed normal to the surface of vertical member  1614  at the bend  1616  in a substantially horizontal orientation resulting in vertical plate  1612  having an L-shaped cross section. Vertical member  1610  has a plurality of holes  1618  formed into the face of the vertical member  1612  in multiple areas in order to accept mounting hardware and provide an attachment point for toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to bracket  1600 . The horizontal member  1614  spans the entire length of the vertical member  1612  and provides a large surface area to contact a base floor. The large surface area provides strength, stability, and durability to bracket  1600 . A plurality of holes  1619  is formed into the face of horizontal member  1614  and sized to receive mounting hardware such as nails, screws, or bolts, to secure bracket  1600  to the floor of a construction site. 
         [0136]    Angled vertical plate  1620  is a single, continuous piece comprising a U-frame  1621  and having vertical members  1625  extending therefrom. Vertical members  1625  join U-frame  1621  at bend  1623   a  and  1623   b,  respectively, thereby placing U-frame  1621  at the midpoint of angled vertical plate  1620 . A flange  1624  is integrally formed and extends normal from each vertical member  1625 . A plurality of holes  1627  are formed in the face of the U-frame  1621  and vertical members  1625  in order to accept mounting hardware and provide an attachment point for toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to bracket  1600 . Each flange  1624  is formed with a hole  1626  sized to receive mounting hardware such as nails, screws, or bolts, to secure bracket  1600  to the floor of a construction site. 
         [0137]    Vertical plate  1610  and angled vertical plate  1620  are substantially equal in length and height. Support plates  1630  is attached, normal to the surface of angled vertical plate  1620 , at bend  1623   a  and  1623   b  and attached to vertical plate  1610  at corresponding locations, resulting in bracket  1600  having a four-by-four support rail receiver  1622  and adjacent toeboard receivers  1632 . The plates are attached by using joint welds or any other attachment means known in the art. In the preferred embodiment, bracket  1600  is made of steel to provide structural strength and rigidity, however may be made of any material having similar physical characteristics to ensure bracket  1600  provides the minimum strength requirements needed to withstand a two-hundred (200) pound force exerted at the top of a 45-inch tall handrail support connected to bracket  1600  as outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 8 §1620. Additionally, for less strenuous and demanding applications, bracket  1600  may be made of plastics, polymers, or any other similar materials. 
         [0138]    Referring now to  FIG. 37 , a front, side view of bracket  1600  is shown. Vertical plate  1610  has vertical member  1612  integrally formed with horizontal member  1614 , which spans the entire length of vertical member  1612 . 
         [0139]    Referring now to  FIG. 38 , a back, side view of bracket  1600  is shown. Angled vertical plate  1620  is formed with a U-frame  1621  having two adjacent vertical members  1625 . Integrally formed with each vertical member  1625  is flange  1624 , each flange  1624  spanning the length of the respective vertical member  1625 . 
         [0140]    Referring now to  FIG. 39 , a top view of bracket  1600  is shown. Bracket  1600  is formed with a handrail support receiver  1622 , sized to receive a standard four-by-four piece of lumber, and two toeboard receivers  1632 , sized to receive a standard two-by-four piece of lumber. In the preferred embodiment, vertical plate  1610  is a linear, flat piece of metal having a vertical member  1612  integrally formed with a horizontal member  1614 , wherein the vertical member  1612  transitions to the horizontal member  1614  by a bend  1616 . In the preferred embodiment, U-frame  1621  has a predetermined width and length. The vertical members  1625  also have predetermined length which when added with the length of the U-frame  1621  is substantially equal to the length of vertical plate  1610 . The length of the U-frame  1621  is configured to accommodate a standard four by four piece of lumber. The width of the rectangular frame  1621  added with the width of the support plates  1630  is configured to receive a standard piece of four by four lumber. As shown, bracket  1600  is not enclosed and has an open bottom, allowing the support rail and toeboard to sit flush with the floor. 
         [0141]    To accommodate various needs, the dimensions of bracket  1600  may be configured for different sized lumber by changing the dimensions of the vertical plate  1610 , the angled vertical plate  1620 , and the support plates  1630 . By altering the dimensions of the U-frame  1621  and the support plates  1630 , the dimensions of the handrail support receiver  1622  may be adjusted. Additionally, by changing only the dimensions of support plates  1630 , the dimensions of the toeboard receiver  1632  may be adjusted. 
         [0142]    Referring now to  FIG. 40 , a perspective view of the front-top of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown, and generally designated  1700 . A first vertical plate  1720  and second vertical plate  1740  is arranged in parallel fashion, spaced apart at a sufficient distance, and joined together by support plates  1730  to form bracket  1700  having a support rail receiver  1710  and adjacent toeboard receivers  1712 . Support rail receiver  1710  is formed to receive a standard four-by-four section of lumber and toeboard receiver  1712  is formed to receive a standard two-by-four section of lumber. 
         [0143]    First vertical plate  1720  and second vertical plate  1740  are substantially similar. Therefore, only first vertical plate  1720  will be described in detail. First vertical plate  1720  is a single, continuous piece comprising a U-frame  1721  having vertical members  1722  extending therefrom. 
         [0144]    Vertical members  1722  join U-frame  1721  at bend  1723   a  and  1723   b,  respectively, thereby placing rectangular frame  1721  at the midpoint of vertical plate  1720 . A flange  1724  is integrally formed and extends normal from each vertical member  1722 . A plurality of holes  1725  are formed in the face of the rectangular frame  1721  and vertical members  1722  in order to accept mounting hardware and provide an attachment point for toeboards  202  and handrail support  204  to bracket  1700 . Each flange  1724  is formed with a hole  1727  sized to receive mounting hardware such as nails, screws, or bolts, to secure bracket  1700  to the floor of a construction site. 
         [0145]    Support plates  1730  is attached, to the surface of first vertical plate  1720  at bend  1723   a  and  1723   b  and attached to second vertical plate  1740  at corresponding locations, resulting in a bracket having a four-by-four support rail receiver  1710  and adjacent toeboard receivers  1712 . The plates are attached by using joint welds or any other attachment means known in the art. In the preferred embodiment, bracket  1700  is made of steel to provide structural strength and rigidity. However, bracket  1700  may also be made of any material having similar physical characteristics to ensure bracket  1700  provides the minimum strength requirements needed to withstand a two-hundred (200) pound force exerted at the top of a 45-inch tall handrail support connected to bracket  1700  as outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 8 §1620. Additionally, for less strenuous and demanding applications, bracket  1700  may be made of plastics, polymers, or any other similar materials. 
         [0146]    Referring now to  FIG. 41 , a rear side view of bracket  1700  is shown. First vertical plate  1720  is formed having a rectangular frame  1721  with adjacent vertical members  1722  extending therefrom. The vertical members  1722  have attached flanges  1724  extending the length of vertical member  1712   
         [0147]    Referring now to  FIG. 42 , a top view of bracket  1700  is shown. Bracket  1700  is formed with a handrail support receiver  1710 , sized to receive a standard four-by-four piece of lumber, and two toeboard receivers  1712 , sized to receive a standard two-by-four piece of lumber. In the preferred embodiment, first vertical plate  1720  and second vertical plate  1740  is substantially similar and is connected by support plates  1730  The support receiver  1710  is formed by the U-frame of first vertical plate  1720 , the support plates  1730  and the U-frame of second vertical plate  1740 . The toeboard receiver  1712  is formed by the vertical members  1712  of vertical plates  1720  and  1740  and support plates  1730 . As shown, bracket  1700  is not enclosed and has an open bottom, allowing the support rail and toeboard to sit flush with the floor. 
         [0148]    To accommodate various needs, the dimensions of bracket  1700  may be configured to accommodate different sized lumber by changing the dimensions of angled vertical plates  1720  and  1740 , and the support plates  1730 . By altering the dimensions of the U-frame  1721  and the support plates  1730 , the dimensions of the handrail support receiver  1710  may be adjusted. Additionally, by changing only the dimension of support plates  1730  the dimensions of the toeboard receiver  1712  may be adjusted as well. 
         [0149]    Referring now to  FIG. 43 , a top-front perspective view of bracket  1700  of the present invention anchored to a construction site floor with handrail support  204  fixedly attached is shown. Handrail support  204  is made of two, two-by-four pieces of lumber having a height greater than 45 inches. The two-by-four pieces of lumber are inserted into the handrail support  1710  wherein the face of the two-by-four piece of lumber having the smaller dimensions faces the front. The two, two-by-fours are fixedly attached to bracket  1700  by inserting hardware through holes  1725  formed into vertical plates  1720  and  1740  and driving them into the two-by-fours to form handrail support  204 . A handrail section  206  is then attached at a height 45 inches from the bottom of the two-by-four and fixedly attached with nails, screws, or any type of fastener. Bracket  1700  is anchored to a construction site floor by inserting hardware through holes  1727  formed in the flanges  1724  and driving them into a construction site floor. The flanges  1724  sits flat on the construction site floor, providing for a large contact surface area with the construction site floor to provide strength, stability, and durability to the bracket  1700 . 
         [0150]    As illustrated, the handrail support  204  is fixedly attached to bracket  1700 . Bracket  1700  is anchored to the construction site floor and serves as an anchor for the handrail support  204 . A two-hundred (200) pound force is exerted on handrail support  204  at a load point  205  vertically forty-five (45) inches from the construction floor, where handrail  206  is attached to handrail support  204 . By fixedly attaching handrail support  204  to the anchored bracket  1700 , the handrail support  204  and bracket  1700  act similarly to a vertical cantilever beam in which one end is fixedly attached and the other end is free to move as described above. 
         [0151]    With a two-hundred (200) pound force exerted on handrail support  204  at the load point  205  vertically forty-five (45) inches from the construction floor, the bending moment at the flanges  1724  will be 9,000 pound inches or 750 pound feet. Thus, the bracket  1700  and flanges  1724  are designed and manufactured to be able to withstand a minimum of 9,000 pound inches or 750 pound feet. 
         [0152]    Referring to  FIG. 44 , bracket  1600  of the present invention anchored to a construction site floor with handrail support  204  fixedly attached to bracket  1600  is shown. As described in  FIG. 45 , the handrail support  204  and bracket  1600  has the ability to withstand a two-hundred (200) pound force exerted on handrail support  204  at the load point  205  vertically forty-five (45) inches from the construction floor. The bending moment at the horizontal members  1614  and flanges  1624  will be 9,000 pound inches or 750 pound feet. Thus, the bracket  1600 , horizontal member  1614  and flanges  1624  are designed and manufactured to be able to withstand a minimum of 9,000 pound inches or 750 pound feet. 
         [0153]    Referring now to  FIG. 45 , an alternative embodiment of the bracket of the handrail and toeboard system is shown and generally designated  1800 . Bracket  1800  is formed using a first toeboard receiver  1810   a  connected to a second toeboard receiver  1810   b  by a hinge assembly  1830 . The hinge assembly  1830  provides a vertical axis in which the first toeboard receiver  1810   a  and second toeboard receiver  1810   b  pivot. Hinge assembly  1830  allows bracket  1800  to be set to a particular angle for use in a corner or other circumstances which requires an angled connection. 
         [0154]    Referring now to  FIG. 46 , an exploded view of bracket  1800  is shown. The bracket  1800  is formed from a first toeboard receiver  1810   a  connected to a second toeboard receiver  1810   b  by a hinge assembly  1830 . 
         [0155]    Toeboard receiver  1810   a  is formed from a single piece of material. In the preferred embodiment of the bracket  1800 , toeboard receiver  1810   a  is formed from a flat sheet of metal. The flat sheet is shaped by bending and cutting into the desired shape. The toeboard receiver  1810   a  has a first wall  1812  followed by a first bend  1814  then a rear wall  1818  followed by a second bend  1820  followed by a second wall  1822 . A first flange  1814  is formed protruding perpendicularly with the first wall  1812 . First flange has a hole  1816  formed to receive mounting hardware. A second flange  1824  is formed protruding perpendicularly with the second wall  1822  and has a hole  1826 . Furthermore, the toeboard receiver  1810   a  is formed with a plurality of holes  1827  sized to accept hardware used to secure toeboards. Toeboard receiver  1810   b  is substantially similar to  1810   a.    
         [0156]    Connecting toeboard  1810   a  and  1810   b  is hinge assembly  1830  which is made of a first hinge plate  1832  and a second hinge plate  1834 . As shown, each hinge plate  1832  and  1834  is sized to have the same dimensions as the rear wall  1818  of the toeboard receivers  1810   a  and  1810   b.  The size of the hinge plate is not meant to be limiting and it is contemplated that the hinge plate  1832  and  1834  may be sized accordingly to meet the needs of the bracket  1800 . First hinge plate  1832  has a plurality of barrels  1833  attached to the edge and second hinge plate  1834  has corresponding barrels  1835  attached to the edge, wherein the barrels overlap along a single axis to create a hinge by inserting a pin  1836  to hold the barrels in place. 
         [0157]    Toeboard receivers  1810   a  and  1810   b  are attached to their corresponding hinge plates  1832  and  1834 , respectively by spot welds. It is contemplated that other methods of attaching toeboard receivers to hinge plates  1832  and  1834  exists and may be used, such as mechanical fasteners, adhesives and full welds. The toeboard receivers  1810   a  and  1810   b  have open ended bottoms. The toeboard receiver  1810   a  and  1810   b  sit flush on the floor, allowing toeboards  202  to directly contact the floor and preventing any material from passing under. 
         [0158]    The various brackets  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 ,  900 ,  1200 ,  1300 ,  1500 ,  1600 ,  1700  and  1800  are used in combination to provide the construction safety handrail and toeboard system of the present invention. By utilizing the various brackets of the present invention, the system can be used on virtually any floor plan. 
         [0159]    While there have been shown what are presently considered to be preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.