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While OSHA provides regulations for various types of fall protection devices, it's largely the decision of company owners or safety managers like you on which you should use. One choice you'll have to make is whether to go with permanent vs. portable fall protection systems. Both provide fall protection and are OSHA compliant, but you'll find some key differences that will help you choose the right option for your commercial building.
In general industry, OSHA regulations require employers to provide fall protection any time an employee is working or walking at a height of 4 feet or higher. In the construction industry, protection is required above 6 feet. This requirement states that the employee is to be protected using a guardrail system that is 42" (+ or - 3") tall. Whether you use a permanent guardrail system or portable guardrails, OSHA standards apply.
As the name implies, a permanent guardrail system is attached to the building and cannot be moved. A permanent guardrail system is generally attached to the roof's structure and then covered with roofing material and waterproofing. They're made with materials and finishes that can withstand long-term exposure to the elements without losing integrity.
Unlike its counterpart, a portable fall protection system can be relocated with ease to provide fall protection where it's needed most. In most cases, portable guardrails are installed using non-penetrating technology, which means they won't damage the rooftop. Don’t let the term “portable” fool you - they are built to withstand OSHA impact requirements and weather exposure and are made of durable materials to handle both.
If both types of fall protection are OSHA approved and keep employees safe, which one is best for your application? That depends upon several factors. Your building's design, the slope of the roof, the type of work being performed, and your preferences all come into play. And, of course, there's also a financial component to this decision. Permanent fall protection systems are typically more expensive than portable guardrails and other fall protection. Therefore, it's tough to say which is right - ultimately, it comes down to the individual situation. Here are a few things to consider:
Ongoing, regular work at height requires a solution that will protect workers from falling at all times. However, if your building is under construction or renovation, a temporary, portable fall protection system is a good choice. As the construction process proceeds, the portable guardrails can be moved to the new area quickly and easily. Once construction is finished the portable guardrails can be left in place or removed and replaced by permanent metal guardrails.
If your employees are required to perform their duties on elevated platforms, walk on elevated walkways, or on the rooftop on a frequent basis, a permanent guardrail system might be a wise choice. On the other hand, if working at height is infrequent at your facility, such as occasionally having to move products or supplies from an elevated surface, a portable fall protection system will be adequate.
When workers have to perform building maintenance at height, they need to be protected from falls. For occasional maintenance, you can use a temporary, portable fall protection system that's put up and taken down as needed. If the maintenance process is long-term or if it's performed frequently, a permanent guardrail system should be considered.
When it comes to choosing between permanent metal guardrails and portable guardrails, price is always a consideration. A permanent guardrail system can cause damage to the roofing material and waterproofing during installation or removal. The subsequent repairs or replacement could drastically add to the already higher price, making non-penetrating portable fall protection systems the fiscally attractive choice.
Even though permanent guardrails and other fall protection systems keep workers from falling off the edge, they can pose another hazard. The intermediate counterweights used in standard guardrail systems can become a trip hazard, exposing workers to an additional risk. Non-penetrating portable fall protection systems eliminate this trip hazard and create a safer work environment for everyone.
Keep in mind that if you decide to go with portable guardrails, you can always change over to permanent metal guardrails later. The important thing is that you have an OSHA approved guardrail system in place to keep people from falling when working or walking at height. However, if you have a permanent guardrail system installed, removing them is much more difficult and can cause issues to the membrane of your roof.
It’s important to note, however, that there are many non-penetrating options that can function as either a permanent or portable solution, making them a sound investment that tick all the boxes.
Maintaining your building's character and aesthetic appeal may be important to you. Ugly metal guardrails aren't going to look right, but you have to have fall protection. Fortunately, both permanent guardrail systems and portable fall protection systems can be personalized in just about any color. So, you can coordinate your safety equipment with the building for a branded, cohesive look, and professional feel. There are also architectural options with more pleasing sightlines that can even enhance the look of your building over all.
If you’re like us, you do your homework and learn as much as you can to make an informed decision. But sometimes it’s tough to make a good decision based on product specs and recommended usage alone. Your facility, employees, and processes are unique and your approach to fall protection might need to be as well. We suggest partnering with a fall protection expert that can walk you through your options and help you arrive at the best solution for you.
Before you decide to purchase any permanent or portable fall protection systems for your building, consult with a person who is competent in fall protection and well-versed in the OSHA requirements and regulations. Their recommendations will help you design a fall safety system that suits your building and provides the utmost in fall protection for your employees. They'll also help guide your purchase, so you don't waste time or money on a system that won't work or that's inadequate. Ultimately, you'll have a safer workplace that's OSHA compliant and that looks as good as it performs.
Still Unsure about how to proceed? Contact us today to set up a consultation with one of our fall protection specialists.