What is edge protection fence

Simple Definition

An edge protection fence (most commonly known as guardrail) is a temporary or permanent barrier system installed along the edge of a raised surface, such as a roof, platform, or scaffolding, to prevent people and materials from falling off.

It is a critical component of fall protection systems in construction and industrial settings.

Key Purposes

1. Primary Safety: To prevent workers, pedestrians, or equipment from accidentally falling from a height, which is a leading cause of serious injury and death in workplaces.
2. Compliance: To meet strict occupational health and safety regulations and building codes that mandate fall protection on any work surface with a potential fall hazard (typically defined as 6 feet / 1.8 meters or more in the US and 2 meters in many other countries).
3. Debris Containment: To help stop tools, materials, and other objects from being knocked off an edge, protecting people and property below.
4. Delineation: To clearly mark a hazardous drop-off, providing a visual and physical warning of the danger.

Common Names

You might hear it called by several names, all referring to essentially the same thing:

• Guardrail or Safety Guardrail (the most common term)
• Edge Protection System
• Perimeter Guarding
• Scaffold Guardrail (when used on scaffolding)
• Roof Guardrail

Key Components

A standard edge protection system is made up of three main parts, designed to withstand significant force (usually a minimum of 200 pounds of force applied in any direction):

1. Top Rail: The top horizontal bar. It must be strong enough to withstand force and be positioned at a specific height (typically 42 inches / 107 cm above the walking surface in the US).
2. Mid Rail: The middle horizontal bar, placed halfway between the top rail and the platform. This prevents a person from falling under the top rail.
3. Toe Boards: A vertical barrier (usually 3.5 to 6 inches tall) installed along the floor level at the base of the guardrail. Its purpose is to prevent tools, equipment, and materials from being kicked off the edge.
4. Posts / Standards: The vertical supports that hold the top and mid rails in place. They are securely anchored to the structure.