“Up on the Roof,” written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, romanticizes getting away from it all in a paradise that is “trouble-proof.” Yes, building owners, facility managers, and their maintenance and repair workers who must access the roof would agree that a trouble-proof roof is paradise. In the real world, though, there are several hazards on a typical commercial, institutional, or industrial rooftop, not the least of which is the roof edge.

A compliant guardrail system is the best roof edge protection solution for a flat or low-slope roof. It collectively protects multiple workers without needing special fall protection equipment or training. To meet Canadian Occupational Health and Safety regulations, the guardrail must be highly visible, have a top rail between 34 and 42 inches high from its base, with a horizontal mid rail, supporting posts no more than 10 feet apart at their centres, and be able to withstand a static load of 890 N applied in any direction at any point on the top rail.

What else should you consider when choosing a rooftop guardrail?

Although “Up on the Roof” is a pop tune, for roof fall protection, a metal safety railing system will best provide the strength and durability needed to meet national, provincial, and territorial standards. Lightweight aluminum or galvanized steel are popular choices. Both types are corrosion-resistant and can be powder-coated for added visibility. Aluminum is looked upon as more aesthetic.

A modular, component-based guardrail system that does not penetrate the roof membrane will conform to the roof layout and is easy to install. There is virtually no maintenance needed, and if the rooftop’s requirements change (e.g., an HVAC system is replaced or relocated), the guardrail system can be reconfigured.

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