OSHA regulations regarding fall protection obligate general industry workplaces to provide adequate rooftop fall protection to their employees and other workers. Luckily, there are several fall protection systems employers can implement.
One of the most common and effective fall protection systems available are portable guardrails. These rooftop protective systems have a multitude of applications, and you can use them in almost every area that presents a fall hazard, from rooftop edges to holes and hatches.
This article provides answers to some of the most common questions about portable guardrails and other fall protection systems on industrial facility rooftops. Understanding the important aspects about rooftop fall protection will help you know how to protect your workers and stay compliant with OSHA regulations.
You are responsible for the safety and well-being of your employees and visitors to your site or facility. You must protect them by eliminating the risks of falls or providing OSHA-compliant fall protection systems and devices to minimize the risks.
If your workers or employees work four feet or more above a lower level or the ground, you must provide them with fall protection. These areas include rooftops, holes, skylights, hoist areas, dock boards, runways, and around dangerous equipment.
According to OSHA 1910.28, if your employees work at least 4 feet above a lower level or the ground, you should protect them by one of the following:
Guardrails
Safety nets
Personal fall protection systems, such as travel restraint, positioning systems, or personal fall arrest.
Guardrail systems are among the most common forms of rooftop fall protection used in nearly every industry. They are very effective and versatile. You can use them to provide fall protection on/around roof holes, rooftop edges, roof hatches, skylights, manholes, and ladder entrances. There are two types of guardrail systems: portable and permanent.
Permanent guardrail systems are attached to the structure and cannot be moved. Portable guardrail systems can be moved with ease. They are mostly installed using non-penetrating technology, so they don't damage the rooftop. Both permanent and temporary guardrail systems should be built to withstand OSHA requirements.
The best one for your application depends on several factors, such as type of work, slope of roof, etc. Nonetheless, portable guardrails have several benefits over permanent ones. They include:
They are typically less expensive than permanent guardrails.
They can be non-penetrating, so they don't ruin the integrity or warranty of your roof.
Installing them is quick and easy. The handy instructions that come with the portable system will guide you through a quick and easy installation.
They are great for temporary constructions as they don't leave a footprint.
Good non-penetrating roof fall protection systems come ready to install without requiring any tools.
Your decision between permanent and temporary guardrails should be based on the specifics of your workplace or facility.
Not necessarily. You can use OSHA compliant portable guardrail systems depending on factors like your roof type, type of work being done and access required, and duration of work.
Whether you install portable or permanent guardrail systems, they must meet the OSHA and ANSI best practices and standards. According to OSHA 1910.29, some of the requirements you must ensure your guardrails meet include the following:
The top edge height of the top rails should be 42 inches, plus or minus three inches, above the surface.
The guardrails should withstand a force of at least 200 pounds applied downward or outward.
If the 200 pounds of pressure is applied downward, the top of the rail must not go lower than 39 inches above the surface.
The surface of the guardrails must be smooth-surfaced to protect workers from injuries like punctures.
OSHA compliant handrails don't overhang the terminal posts at the ends unless it doesn't pose a projection hazard.
When buying handrails, you should ensure that they comply with OSHA requirements. OSHA compliant handrails meet the following OSHA 1910.29 requirements:
They should not be lower than 30 inches or higher than 38 inches from the surface.
Their shape and size should allow employees to grasp them firmly
The ends don't present any projection hazards
They should be able to withstand a force of at least 200 pounds without failure
Another important characteristic to consider when choosing handrails is that their surface should be smooth to prevent injury or snagging of clothing.
Although OSHA provides guidelines and best practices to ensure you fully protect your employees, it doesn't specify which systems and devices you should use. The decision is up to you. To make the right choice, consider your building's specifics and consult with a qualified individual so they can help you pick the best choice based on your situation.
You must protect your employees and visitors from rooftop and other types of falls by eliminating the risks. In most cases, however, it is impossible to eliminate them fully. The only option you have is to follow the OSHA regulations and recommendations to ensure the risks are completely minimized. If you don't, you will be hit by fines and penalties.
All things considered, investing in portable guardrails is the crucial first step in ensuring that your employees are protected from rooftop falls. If you're interested in buying high-quality, OSHA-compliant portable guardrails, BlueWater has got you covered.
We have a complete line of fall protection systems and devices, including non-penetrating portable guardrails. Once installed, our guardrails offer maximum protection, giving the peace of mind knowing that your employees and visitors are adequately protected.
Contact us today to learn more about our fall protection systems and our teams will be more than willing to help.
