|
Product Code:
|
|
|
Product Code:
|
|
|
Product Code:
|
|
|
Product Code:
|
|
|
Product Code:
|
|
|
Product Code:
|
Pharmaceutical companies utilize the space on their rooftops maybe even more than most industries. HVAC systems, chillers, filtration systems, security systems, and other specialized equipment are most commonly held on their roofs. This means rooftop access is also more common for pharmaceutical companies, therefore there is a greater need for high emphasis on rooftop safety measures. By implementing strong roof safety systems such as a safety guardrail or a similar OSHA-compliant fall safety solution, facilities will be better equipped to protect both their workers and important specialized equipment.
Because pharmaceutical facilities house important equipment on their roofs, facilities are almost always built with a flat, or low-slope, roof. A safety guardrail is the most reliable and compliant way of maintaining perimeter safety on flat roofs. Aside from fall protection for a building’s leading edge, a safety guardrail provides an obvious sign of where potential falls and other hazards are, such as a roof hatch, skylight, or uneven roof level. They also help to prevent unauthorized entry to those rooftop mechanics and other equipment.
A rooftop guardrail system protects more than just the roof's edge. It creates an effective line of defense for:
Skylights, where safety screens are more likely to be out of compliance.
Equipment that's sharp, electrical, or otherwise potentially dangerous.
Equipment that should only be accessed by authorized personnel.
Temporary work areas (where portable guardrails are ideal).
Uneven portions of the roof, such as transitions.
Roof hatches and other interior openings.
Technical Requirements of Rooftop Guardrails
Depending on your jurisdiction, OSHA or CCOHS rooftop fall-protection regulations may require rooftop railings between 4' and 15' away from the edge or other hazards. In most cases, rooftop pharmaceutical facility safety requires a guardrail system to meet the following standards:
The top-edge rail must be at least 42" (1.1 m) tall, plus or minus 3" (8 cm), from the walking or working surface (whichever's higher).
It must be capable of deflecting down by only 39" or less when under 200 lbs. (90.7 kg) of downward pressure.
A nominal rail diameter of at least 0.25" (0.6 cm).
Smooth, continuous surfaces, to prevent snags.
No more than 19" (48.26 cm) between horizontal or vertical rails, neither of which should create projection hazards.
Assembly connection points must have a tensile strength of at least 5,000 lb. (2,268 kg).
If your work involves hoisting chillers, air handling units, and other HVAC RTUs (rooftop units), a designated hoisting area is required. Here, a gate or removable guardrail section is the strongest and safest way to create a temporary opening between guardrail sections. This is the only location where a break in guardrail continuity should be allowed at the perimeter.
Remember it's critical to regularly consult the relevant OSHA or CCOHS regulations of your location, as well as keep your rooftop railings maintained and clean.
Operational Safety
To maintain fall safety on pharmaceutical rooftops, keeping up with the OSHA & CCOHS regulations and installing the proper fall protection is crucial. But it's also important to inform all rooftop maintenance crews of proper procedures when working anywhere near safety guardrails, rooftop equipment or the roof’s leading edge, including:
Not placing materials and equipment (other than masonry when necessary) within 4' (1.2 m) of a working edge.
Storing materials at least 6' away from a roof's edge – and it's a good idea to store mechanical equipment operated perpendicularly to the edge 10' away.
Ensure any stacked materials close to the edge are as stable as possible.
Work should be done over canopies designed to catch falling objects wherever possible (which is necessary for any masonry work).
Maintaining the mechanicals on an industrial rooftop requires the effort of a team of employees. But so does keeping everyone safe from falls. To supervise rooftop maintenance and keep these teams protected, the safety manager must usually designate a safety monitor who has three essential responsibilities:
Maintain high competency in fall hazards and related safety regulations.
Remain near to, and on the same walking/working surface as the work being supervised.
Stay uninvolved in all other duties.
Safety monitors must be capable of communicating with rooftop workers at all times. The monitor's most essential duty is to warn employees the moment they approach a fall or other rooftop hazard (or otherwise increase the risk), especially whenever staff seems unaware of the hazard.
Of course, rooftop safety is a shared responsibility of all pharmaceutical employees or hired maintenance crews – but it is the ultimate responsibility of the safety manager to ensure everyone goes home safe and sound at the end of the day.
The versatility of a guardrail system allows a facility to ensure its workers' safety and protect their vital equipment. This keeps the facility running smartly and effectively with less risk of injury to their workers, damage to their equipment, or hefty non-compliance fines from OSHA. Especially in an industry like pharmaceuticals, where the protection of vital equipment housed on the roof is crucial to the flow of business. The fact of the matter is, prioritizing the safety of your roof is non-negotiable.
BlueWater is a global industry leader in strong, compliant, non-penetrating rooftop railings for passive fall protection on roofs and elevated structures. We build our guardrails to conform with the widest possible range of safety regulations across numerous sectors. Our solutions offer easy installation that won't jeopardize the structural integrity of the roof or roofing materials, and is designed to withstand even the toughest weather for decades.
To request a quote or answer any questions about our rooftop railings and related equipment, contact us today. Our knowledgeable fall protection specialists are standing by to support your workplace safety needs.
