Ask any facility manager or industrial building owner what they wish for the most and they’ll probably say more space. By installing mezzanines, catwalks, and other elevated surfaces inside your facility, you can effectively increase your square footage instantly. It’s an effective way to increase volume with a small investment. These structures also present safety issues, particularly fall hazards. Using mezzanine safety gates and a guardrail system on elevated platforms can manage traffic and increase fall protection for workers.
But there are many other factors and solutions you need to consider. In this article, we’ll review some of the most common questions (and important answers) about mezzanine fall protection.
How Dangerous Are Mezzanines and Other Elevated Surfaces?
Fall hazards are everywhere in an industrial facility. Workers can slip and fall on a seemingly flat surface when debris, water, or oil are present on the floor. But, by far, the most serious fall hazards are on elevated surfaces more than 4′ above the level below. The higher the elevated surface, the more the danger of injuries from falls increases.
What Are the OSHA Requirements for Fall Protection on Mezzanines?
Per OSHA 1910.28, Duty to Provide Fall Protection and Falling Object Protection, anytime general industry workers are expected to perform their duties at a height of 4′ or more above a lower floor, fall protection is required. OSHA also requires fall protection for workers who must work or walk at any height above dangerous machinery or equipment. The ANSI also offers some fall protection requirements and recommendations any safety manager would find helpful.
What Fall Protection Equipment Is Required for Mezzanines?
ANSI and OSHA requirements for fall protection generally do not specify which types of fall protection devices you must use. However, the most common form of fall protection for mezzanines are metal guardrail systems. When installed on a mezzanine or walkway, safety railings provide fall protection and falling object protection as required.
Do I Need Mezzanine Safety Gates to Be Compliant with OSHA/ANSI Regulations?
It’s up to you to decide what type of protection you provide for mezzanine openings. However, platform gates are highly recommended by safety experts. These platform gates help eliminate unauthorized access and provide fall protection at the same time. And a self-closing safety gate will provide workers with the fall protection they need without them having to close the gate after each use.
What Are the Mezzanine Fall Protection Safety Gate Requirements?
If you choose to install mezzanine safety gates in your facility, you’ll want to be sure they’re compliant with OSHA regulations to avoid both fines and injuries. Your platform gate must meet or exceed the following:
- Safety gates must be 42″ (+ or – 3″) tall, measured from the walking/working surface.
- The material used for your mezzanine gate must be snag-free and smooth.
- Mezzanine safety gates must be able to handle 200 lbs. of force on the top rail.
- Midrails of your metal safety gate have to handle 150 lbs. of force.
Do I Have to Install a Mezzanine Gate on Every Elevated Surface?
Remember that it’s your obligation to provide adequate fall protection for your employees whenever they’re working more than 4′ above another level. By installing a self-closing gate on each mezzanine or elevated platform in your facility, you ensure OSHA compliance and your worker’s safety.
How Do I Choose an Appropriate Mezzanine Safety Gate?
The best way to decide what type of safety gate you should install on your mezzanines is to consult with a qualified safety expert. You’ll want to perform an inspection of your facility, focusing on potential fall hazards from elevated surfaces. Once you’ve determined that a safety gate is necessary, you’ll have to install the appropriate gate for your application.
Are Mezzanine Gates Difficult to Install?
While the process of installing a safety gate on a mezzanine isn’t technically difficult, it is important that it’s done properly. Rather than risk an improper installation and an OSHA fine, it’s best to leave the installation of any mezzanine gates, guardrail system, or other fall protection equipment to a trained safety expert with OSHA compliance experience.
What Styles of Mezzanine Safety Gate Are Available?
There are a variety of types, styles, and sizes of mezzanine safety gates available to use in industrial facilities. Gates are available in both single and double pallet widths to suit your needs. Pivoting mezzanine gates feature a counterbalanced design for maximum protection of the mezzanine edge, while a clear height mezzanine safety gate provides outstanding fall protection while accommodating tall loads.
Where Can I Get OSHA-Compliant Fall Protection Safety Gates?
For trusted fall protection equipment that meets OSHA standards like safety gates, rely on an industry leader like Fabenco. We have decades of experience, and we manufacture a complete line of safety gates that meet or exceed OSHA requirements for fall protection. Our safety experts will be happy to help you determine what type of platform gates are best for your facility. Make sure your facility is completely compliant with OSHA regulations by clicking here to contact us.
