Falls from height remains one of the leading causes of workplace injury and death. A recent article from the HSE discusses how a worker suffered serious injuries after falling from a flat roof that did not have any edge protection. This was the second time that the sole trader in charge had failed to provide edge protection on a job.
This raises the questions we will be answering in this blog: why is edge protection so important? And what kind of edge protection systems are out there that could have prevented this accident taking place?
Why Is Edge Protection Important?
Suitable edge protection systems are crucial for work at height as they act as a barrier, preventing workers and tools from accidentally slipping or falling from elevated work areas. Plus, many jurisdictions have regulations requiring the use of edge protection when working at height. Non compliance can lead to serious fines and legal action.
By installing edge protection systems, you can help to create a safe working environment where workers feel confident and able to focus on their tasks without the looming risk of fall hazards. This in turn can boost worker productivity!
What Are the Different Types of Edge Protection?
There are three main forms of edge protection that can be used while working at height: fixed, freestanding and collapsible systems.
- Fixed edge protection systems tend to use guardrails that are permanently attached to the structure being worked on, providing a continuous barrier of protection.
- Freestanding edge protection systems provide fall protection without needing to permanently fix anything to the structure. They usually rely on a counterweight system, using weighted bases to stay securely in place.
- Collapsible edge protection systems are designed to be folded down when not in use, allowing workers to access different areas and move the railing to other places, without the need to interfere with roof sheathing.
At SafetyLiftinGear, we offer a PROSAFE Modular Barrier Edge Protection System that consists of self-supporting railings with pipe connectors, allowing the barriers to be adjusted to any surface configuration, shape and level.
Alongside installing barrier and guardrail systems, safety net and mesh barrier systems can also be used as an extra layer of edge protection.
*
Not sure what kind of edge protection your job needs? At SafetyLiftinGear, we can design, install and certify bespoke edge protection systems that are tailored to your requirements.
We frequently install fixed, freestanding and collapsible edge protection, plus other fall protection systems top keep workers safe from a wide variety of fall hazards.
To arrange a site survey or request a quote for a custom-made edge protection system, use the button below to get in touch with us!
Contact Us
0117 9381 600
