Collective protection systems such as rooftop guardrails and edge protection are among the safest ways to prevent falls from height. Unlike personal fall protection equipment (PFPE), they don’t require workers to wear harnesses or lanyards or undergo specialist training. As soon as someone steps on the roof, they’re protected. But while these systems eliminate human error and reliance on PPE, they’re not an ‘install and forget’ solution.
Without regular maintenance and inspection, rooftop guardrails can deteriorate, putting lives at risk.
Would you feel safe on this roof?
Imagine stepping onto a rooftop where the only thing between you and a fatal fall is a rusted, loose or poorly installed guardrail. Would you trust it with your life? If you wouldn’t feel safe working on the roof, why should anyone else?
Unfortunately, not all edge protection systems are in the condition they should be. Time, weather, and poor maintenance schedules can compromise the integrity of these safety barriers. Third parties can also tamper with a system while working on the roof or attach signage or antennae to the railings. You can also find that changes in roof usage or additions, such as solar panels, can affect the effectiveness of the system’s original design.
Regular inspections will ensure the system remains compliant, secure and capable of withstanding a person falling against it.
Your legal responsibilities
Building owners, facilities managers, health and safety professionals, or anyone responsible for the safety of people at a premises have a legal duty to ensure rooftop safety. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 state that:
- Employers must take measures to prevent falls from height where possible
- Collective protections (such as guardrails and edge protection) must be prioritised over personal protective measures
- Any work equipment used for fall protection must be properly inspected and maintained
- Work equipment exposed to conditions causing deterioration must be inspected to ensure that health and safety conditions are maintained and that any deterioration can be detected and remedied in good time
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 further reinforces this duty of care, requiring employers and building owners to ensure the safety of employees and others affected by their operations.
Failing to comply with these regulations can result in legal action, heavy fines, and, most importantly, potential injury or loss of life. If an accident occurs due to a neglected or faulty system, the responsibility will fall on those managing the site.
Why regular inspections are essential
Guardrail systems are designed to be durable, but they are constantly exposed to the elements. Over time, even the strongest materials can weaken or become damaged. Key inspection points include:
- Corrosion & rust: Components can corrode, weakening the structure and reducing its load-bearing capacity.
- Loose fixings and connectors: Grub screws, clamps, elbows and connectors can loosen due to exposure to the elements, vibration, or poor installation.
- Structural damage: Bent, broken, or missing sections can compromise the entire system, making it unsafe.
- Inadequate installation: If a system was not installed correctly in the first place, it may not perform as expected in an emergency.
A thorough inspection ensures these issues are spotted early and rectified before they become a serious hazard.
How often should guardrail inspections be carried out?
The frequency of inspection depends on several factors, including the environment, exposure to weather and manufacturer recommendations. However, as a general rule:
- Edge protection systems should be inspected at least annually by a competent person
- Additional checks should be carried out after structural alterations or severe weather events.
- Regular visual checks should be conducted by site staff to spot obvious signs of damage or system degradation.
What to do if an issue is found
If an inspection reveals a problem with your guardrail or edge protection system, it must be addressed immediately. This could involve simply tightening or replacing loose fixings or replacing corroded parts or damaged sections.
Never assume a faulty system will hold up in an emergency. If there is any doubt about its integrity, restrict roof access until repairs are made.
Protecting people & peace of mind
A well maintained edge protection system gives you and the workers on your roof peace of mind that they are fully protected.
Don’t wait for an incident to highlight a problem with your system. Regular testing and inspection by a competent company or person aren’t just legal requirements; they’re essential for protecting people working on your roofs.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your rooftop guardrails, now’s the time to act. Book an inspection, address any issues, and make sure that anyone accessing your roof can do so with confidence.
