Roof Edge Protection – About Guardrails And Handrails

Guardrail and Handrail are two terms linked to roof edge protection that people often get mixed up with and confused as the same thing. When you look at the design process, you will understand the difference between them and their benefits and uses. Based on what you’ve understood, you can choose the right system for your application.

Brief on Guardrail and its applications 

A guardrail is nothing but a protective bar or a rail along the edge of a staircase or cliff that is steep and high. The main purpose of this edge protection system is to form a protective boundary to prevent falls from heights that can be fatal. 

Guardrails come in two types - Fixed or freestanding guardrails. Each of them is designed to bear different loading capacities based on the location and usage of the area of installation. The design and installation comply with a strict set of rules that are covered by British Standards. 

Freestanding guardrails have a wide range of applications, such as platforms and rooftops in industrial sectors for maintenance purposes and in public places such as footpaths and Skywalkers. It is also known as a freestanding handrail and is a very popular roof edge protection solution as it does not need penetration and is a very cost-effective solution.

Brief on Handrail and its applications 

A handrail is an edge protection system that is basically a long piece of wood or metal that is attached along a flight of stairs or any dangerous place where there is a risk of people falling from heights. It can also be held as support while climbing. Roof handrails and freestanding handrailsare different names given to handrails. The end goal is to serve the same purpose of protecting people from hazardous falls. These roof edge railing systems are designed in a way that they won't penetrate the roof membrane. It is specially designed for contractors and employees who work at least above 2 meters on a building.

Handrails are installed in public places such as train stations that are DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) compliant or shopping centres where people need support while going up and down a staircase or a ramp. They may have specific design features, such as smooth and continuous rail surfaces. 

Choose the Right Company for the Right Edge Protection Solution!

 Though the roof edge protection systems look similar in appearance, they are significantly different in their purpose. Choose the right system for your location for maximum protection. Choose a reputable company that can suggest the most suitable product to you based on your requirements to ensure you get the correct level of protection for your project. They must have the knowledge and experience to provide you with the best line of edge protection systems to meet all your requirements. Ensure that they provide a full product design, supply, and installation service for fixed and freestanding guardrails, roof handrails, and safety rails to collectively offer adequate safety measures from fall-prone areas.