Amid the recent election noise, a crucial update from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) may have gone unnoticed – the latest workplace fatality statistics. Alarmingly, work at height remains the leading cause of fatalities in the workplace.
Key takeaways from the latest HSE statistics report include:
- 138 workers were killed in work-related accidents (2 more than in 2022/23)
- 51 of these fatalities were in construction (4 more than the previous year)
- Falls from height was the most common cause of fatal injuries
- 50 fall from height fatal injuries, accounting for 36% of all worker deaths
These sobering statistics highlight the urgent need to tackle the issue of worker fatalities and serious injuries as a result of a fall from height. While work at height is inherently dangerous, the positive news is that there are effective measures you can implement to protect people working on your roofs.
Proper equipment selection for work at height
As we’ve discussed in previous posts, selecting the right equipment is crucial in mitigating work at height risks. Following the hierarchy of control is essential. Eliminating the hazard is the most effective method. However, when you can’t avoid work at height, the HSE recommends collective protection, such as rooftop guardrails. These systems provide a physical barrier that prevents falls without requiring active participation from workers, making them an excellent choice for comprehensive roof safety.
Types of guardrail systems in action
We’ve explored the different guardrail systems in the past. Each is designed to suit various roof types and safety requirements. To help you understand the selection process better, here are just some of our installations to illustrate where and why these different guardrail systems are most suitable.
1. Freestanding guardrails: versatile collective protection
Freestanding or counterweighted guardrails are an excellent option for worker protection on different roof types.
The benefits of freestanding guardrails include:
- No penetration of the roof surface, preserving it’s waterproofing integrity
- Flexibility of layout and easy reconfiguration
- Suitable for flat and low-pitched roofs
- Ideal for retrofitting, such as around newly installed solar panel arrays
- No PPE, training or supervision required
Here are a couple of examples of our recent freestanding guardrail installations:
Firstly, a freestanding guardrail installed on a flat roof, ensuring safety without compromising the roof structure. You can see here how the guardrail has been be adapted to the roof’s unique layout.
Here we retrofitted freestanding guardrail to the roof for a school in Croydon, South London around a new solar panel array, providing comprehensive protection for maintenance workers.
2. Collapsible freestanding guardrails: discreet and flexible
Collapsible freestanding guardrails offer a discreet yet effective solution for building owners who prefer a less obtrusive safety system. These systems fold down when not in use, maintaining the building’s aesthetic appeal, and then lift up to protect people during maintenance activities.
The advantages of collapsible freestanding guardrails include:
- Aesthetic flexibility, as they can be hidden from view when not needed
- Quick and easy deployment when work at height is required
- No penetration of the roof surface, preserving its integrity
- No PPE, training or supervision required
This collapsible guardrail folds down, blending seamlessly with the roofline when not in use, and then quickly lifts back up for maintenance work.
3. Fixed railings: robust protection for industrial roofs
Fixed guardrails provide robust and permanent protection for industrial buildings with standing seam or metal profile roofs. These guardrails are securely fastened to the roof structure, offering long-term safety for regular maintenance tasks.
Key benefits of fixed guardrails include:
- Permanent protection for frequently accessed areas
- Durable and long lasting protection
- Suitable for roofs with frequent maintenance needs
- It can be customised to fit various industrial roof types and profiles
- Minimal maintenance requirements
This fixed guardrail for our industrial client provides safe access for maintenance workers.
And as you can see here, freestanding guardrails are not the only solution for solar panel protection. Here we installed an extensive fixed guardrail system on this roof for a client in Kent.
A commitment to ensuring work at height safety
Addressing the risks associated with working at height must be everyone’s priority if we want to reduce workplace fatalities. Introducing comprehensive safety measures, such as installing rooftop guardrails, is one of the most effective ways of providing a safe environment for people working on your roofs.
Whether you choose freestanding, collapsible, or fixed guardrails, the important thing is to select a system that fits the requirements of your roof and your specific needs.
