Abstract: Removable guard rail stanchion apparatus comprises a clamping portion adapted for clamping to surfaces of a floor edge and a vertical stanchion post having a lower end releasably locked in a socket fixed to the clamping portion. The clamping portions includes larger and smaller diameter vertical tubes, the smaller diameter tube being slidably connected inside the larger diameter tube by an elongate axial screw. Horizontally projecting clamping member is fixed to each of the two tubes. Turning of the axial screw telescopes the tubes and thereby adjusts the spacing between the clamping members which bear against horizontal floor edge surfaces. A dished washer, through which the clamping force is applied, flattens to give a visual indication when sufficient clamping force has been applied, an angle is provided on at least one of the clamping members to fit over a floor edge corner to prevent twisting of the clamping portion relative to the floor edge.