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When you think of a guardrail, you probably think of a bright yellow, metal safety rail used around a dangerous area. It's true that yellow safety rails are a common form of passive fall protection, and plain gray guardrails are a staple in many industrial areas. But not all guardrails fall under these categories. In fact, some are made to blend in with the building, both in style and color. Others are specifically intended to visually pop out and make an impression. Some companies use colored safety rails to reflect their branding, or commitment to an ideal like being environmentally friendly. If you’re thinking about installing guardrails, keep a few things in mind:
Design considerations matter, but practical protection always needs to come first. You are required, by law, to provide your employees with a safe working environment. OSHA has strict guidelines for preventing workplace falls. Following these rules is especially important whenever workers need to perform their duties at height, such as on your rooftop. Whether workers are taking care of regular maintenance, repairs, or construction, it's vital that you have sufficient OSHA compliant fall protection devices in place.
Because of their strength, ease of use, and durability, safety rails are a good choice for all types of applications, including rooftops. In fact, they're one of the most widely used forms of roof fall protection. Besides providing passive fall protection around the perimeter of the roof, fall protection systems may also be used to protect:
The only way to determine what fall protection systems are appropriate is to do a thorough safety evaluation of your rooftop. This should be performed by a qualified individual who is familiar with both your building and OSHA guidelines. If guardrails are a feasible option for your rooftop, you need to be sure they are properly installed and that they meet or exceed OSHA standards for safety.
Rooftops are full of potential fall hazards from the leading edge to roof access points, skylights, and other openings. Areas around HVAC systems, other equipment, and supplies also present a danger to workers. Although OSHA doesn't specifically require you to use a railing around the perimeter of your roof and equipment, it is one of the best options you have to choose from. Should you decide safety rails are appropriate, they must follow OSHA guidelines such as:
Just because OSHA requires guardrails to meet certain criteria, it doesn't mean they have to be ugly additions. In fact, safety rails and guardrails used for roof fall protection can be quite attractive. From complimenting your brand to enhancing the style of your building, guardrails can do more than you think.
Although you want your guardrails to be visible to workers, there is no requirement for you to have them painted "safety yellow" or any other color. Quite the opposite, actually. Your guardrails can complement your building and add a great deal of aesthetic appeal. The color of your safety rails can be customized to match your brand, building, or philosophy. Want a cool industrial vibe? Guardrails are also available in galvanized steel or aluminum finishes.
Did you know that color can improve employee morale, increase productivity, improve safety, and enhance your employees experience? It's true. Color psychology has long held that color can make or break a brand. The same holds true for your commercial building and its safety features. The right colors convey a sense of safety, enhance brand recognition, and instill trust.
If the idea of putting ugly guardrails on your beautiful building doesn't sit right with you, consider an architectural roof guardrail system. These low-profile guardrails are difficult to see from a distance or at ground level, so you keep your building's unique architecture and design in the spotlight while still providing exceptional fall protection. Choose a complementary finish, and you won't have to worry about your workers’ safety or your building's curb appeal.
You've worked hard to build your brand and your customers expect a certain image from you and your buildings. Keeping your workers safe is vital to your ongoing success, but you can't afford to sacrifice your image. With customized architectural guardrails, you won't have to.
The rooftop of your commercial building isn't a place you want just anyone wandering around. In fact, you want to limit access to this dangerous and sensitive space as much as possible. Whether you choose a shiny stainless-steel finish, or painted PVC, custom guardrails not only provide fall protection; they also compliment your building.
Guardrails are all well and good, but your employees need to have access to the roof. You can't leave open areas, whether it's around a hatch opening, or along the rooftop edge. It presents too much of a fall hazard. Instead, you'll need to have an industrial swing gate, or slide gate installed. Just like your safety rail system, you can customize the color and style to suit your building and your needs.
Providing your employees with OSHA compliant roof fall protection is a no-brainer. Not only are you required to by law – it's just the right thing to do. One of the best ways to keep your workers safe on your rooftop is by installing customized fall protection systems by Bluewater Manufacturing. All of our safety rail products meet or exceed OSHA standards and come in a variety of styles and colors to suit your needs. Not sure what you need or whether guardrails are appropriate for your use? Contact us and we will be happy to provide you with professional advice and insight to make it easy to choose.