Roof edge protection is required in many buildings for inspection, maintenance, plant access, and other tasks.
Roof protection is an enclosure or structure that prevents falls at height. To reduce the risk of falling objects or people over the edge of a roof, edge protection forms are installed around its perimeter.
Roof guardrail systems are a barrier to prevent workers and materials from reaching the edge.
When Should You Use Roof Edge Protection?
High-risk roof work is at height. All roofing work should be completed with appropriate precautions and risk mitigation, regardless of how long it takes.
Roof edge protection is necessary to protect the building’s edge from falls when roof work cannot be avoided.
Roof edge protection does not have a numerical value. Roof edge protection is necessary whenever roof access or roof work is needed. Roofs are high above the ground, and falls from them can cause severe or fatal injuries.
What Are The Different Types Of Roof Edge Protection Available?
Roof Edge Protection is available in many sizes and shapes. Different roof edge protection options offer clear benefits depending on the application, roof design, and project time management.
Scaffolding
To protect workers from falling, scaffolding is used frequently as roof edge protection. Scaffolding isn’t a long-term solution, and shouldn’t be used by anyone not working in construction.
Fixed Roof Handrails
Handrails provide great safety solutions for compliance and accessibility. Although they are sturdier than scaffolding and have a more attractive finish, handrails can pose a problem with the roof membrane.
Handrails need to be secured to a surface. This means that handrails can be attached to a building parapet or a concrete/steel roofing structure. But you must ensure that the roof waterproofing is not compromised by adding holes.
Freestanding Roof Guardrail
A roof guardrail is a freestanding structure that supports itself, and not scaffolding or fixed handrails.
Simple cantilever weights provide the strength, stability, and safety of this system. The system’s counterbalanced weight allows it to withstand moderate wind and remain upright in adverse weather conditions. In the event of an accident, it can also counter the impact of a person colliding with the system.
Roof guardrails can also be a more attractive option for buildings with a traditional appearance. The freestanding roof guardrails are made of a smooth, metallic finish. They blend well into the surrounding environment. This guardrail system is suitable for roofs of all sectors. It can provide permanent edge protection, as well as regular inspections and maintenance.
These guardrails are great for facilities and factories with roofs that are often used such as schools and hospitals. Freestanding roof guardrails are a great idea for roofs that require access only occasionally but are not required often. They provide security and peace of mind to the building owners, ensuring that maintenance workers can safely work on the roof.
One example is when new buildings are being built with solar panels as a feature. Current buildings are then having them installed to take advantage of the energy-saving benefits. Solar panels require frequent cleaning and maintenance to maximize their potential. Having a roof guardrail system freestanding on your roof will make sure they are easily accessible when necessary.
