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Choosing the right roof edge safety solution can feel overwhelming when safety is paramount. Do you need guardrails, walkways, safety lifelines, or all of the above?
The hierarchy of controls offers a clear framework for mitigating fall risks, with edge protection playing a crucial role in safeguarding workers in elevated environments.
To create a safe working environment for roof access and fragile roofs, you will likely need a combination of solutions. In this blog post, we outline five pivotal roof edge safety solutions for rooftop fall protection that cover all types of roof safety requirements to work safely at height.
The Hierarchy of Controls
When working at height, applying the hierarchy of controls is a methodical approach for selecting the most effective roof edge safety solutions. This approach begins with the most desirable option—eliminating the hazard—and progresses through substitution, engineering controls, administrative actions, training, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Engineering controls, which involve modifying the work environment or work systems, are particularly pertinent when addressing roof edge protection.
At APS, we specialise in providing comprehensive advice on the variety of roof edge safety systems you may need to install.
5 Key Solutions for Roof Edge Safety
1. Kee Guard: The Premier Roof Edge Protection System
Kee Guard stands at the forefront of roof edge protection systems. This free-standing guardrail system does not penetrate the roof membrane, ensuring the structural integrity of your building remains uncompromised.
Features:
- Compliance with UK Safety Regulations: Designed to meet the rigorous standards set by UK regulations for working at height.
- Versatility and Adaptability: Can be tailored to fit the unique contours of any rooftop layout.
- Durability: Constructed using high-grade galvanised steel to withstand the elements and provide long-term safety.
2. Kee Line: The Horizontal Lifeline Solution
For areas where guardrails are not feasible, Kee Line, a wire-based horizontal lifeline system, offers a reliable alternative. It provides continuous fall protection for individuals working near roof edges.
Features:
- Flexibility: Ideal for complex roof shapes where traditional edge protection cannot be implemented.
- User-friendly: Allows for straightforward attachment of personal protective equipment (PPE), enabling safe and unimpeded movement across the roof.
- Compliance: Meets the stringent requirements of UK fall protection standards.
3. Kee Walk: Safe Access Walkways
Kee Walk, a walkway solution that provides a secure, level, and anti-slip path across sloping and flat roof surfaces, ensures safe navigation across rooftop surfaces.
Features:
- Enhanced Safety: Features an anti-slip surface for safe access in all weather conditions.
- Design Flexibility: Modular system that can be configured to suit a wide range of roof types and designs.
- Regulatory Compliance: Engineered to comply with UK safety regulations for rooftop access.
4. Kee Dome: Skylight Fall Protection
Kee Dome is a collective fall protection solution designed to prevent falls through fragile roof lights and skylights, a common hazard on many roofs.
Features:
- Non-Penetrative: Free-standing system that does not require fixing into the roof structure, preserving its integrity.
- Quick Installation: Modular design allows for fast and easy assembly.
- Compliance: Fully compliant with UK safety standards for skylight protection.
5. Kee Anchor: Portable Deadweight Anchor System
For situations that call for a mobile solution, Kee Anchor provides a temporary, non-penetrative, deadweight anchor system ideal for maintenance or short-term work on roofs.
Features:
- Flexibility and Mobility: Easily moved and installed as needed, providing versatile fall protection.
- No Roof Penetration: Preserves the roof’s waterproof membrane.
- Standards Compliance: Engineered to meet the UK’s stringent safety regulations for temporary edge protection.
Secure Your Workforce with APS Roof Edge Protection Solutions
At APS Safety Systems, we understand that safeguarding your team while working at heights is paramount. Our comprehensive range of roof edge protection systems, including guardrails, lifelines, and walkways, is specifically designed to meet the highest safety standards and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. By choosing APS, you are investing in proven solutions that prevent falls and protect your workers.
Why Choose APS?
- Unmatched Expertise: Our team of qualified engineers brings years of experience in designing, installing, and maintaining top-notch safety systems.
- Custom Solutions: We offer flexible, modular systems that can be tailored to fit your unique roof configurations without compromising structural integrity.
- Compliance Assurance: Stay compliant with UK safety standards.
- Durability and Reliability: Our systems are constructed using high-grade materials, ensuring long-term durability and minimal maintenance.
Take the Next Step Toward Safety
Don’t wait for an accident to highlight the need for proper roof edge protection. Secure your workforce with our state-of-the-art safety systems today. Contact APS Safety Systems HERE to discuss your project needs and discover how our comprehensive solutions can be seamlessly integrated into your safety protocols.
Get in Touch
- Phone: +44 (0)141 880 6688
- Email: in**@**************ms.com
- Visit Us: APS Safety Systems Limited, Unit 1, Invergyle Court, Broomloan Place, Ibrox Business Park, Glasgow, G51 2JR
Invest in safety. Invest in APS.
Roof Edge Protection FAQs
1. What is a roof edge protection system and why is it important?
A roof edge protection system is designed to prevent falls from heights by providing a barrier at the edge of a roof. These systems are crucial for ensuring safety in roof work, complying with health and safety regulations, and protecting workers from potentially fatal accidents. Systems such as the Kee Guard freestanding guardrail system offer a modular design that can be easily installed on various roof surfaces, including flat roofs and standing seam roofs.
2. How do freestanding guardrail systems work on different roof types?
Freestanding guardrail systems, like Kee Guard, use a proven counterbalance system to provide stability without penetrating the roof membrane. This makes them suitable for a range of roof types, including flat roofs and metal profile roofs. The system works by distributing weight across the roof surface, ensuring it remains secure even in adverse weather conditions. The modular design allows for quick installation and adaptability to different roof layouts.
3. What are the benefits of using a modular system for roof edge protection?
A modular system offers several benefits, including flexibility, ease of installation, and compliance with safety regulations. These systems, such as those using Kee Klamp fittings, can be customised to fit specific roof configurations and are designed to meet the highest safety standards. Modular systems are also advantageous because they can be installed without welding or drilling, preserving the integrity of the roof.
4. How often should roof edge protection systems be inspected?
To comply with building regulations and ensure ongoing safety, roof edge protection systems should undergo an annual inspection. Regular maintenance and recertification help identify any wear or damage that could compromise the system’s effectiveness. APS Safety Systems offers comprehensive inspection services to ensure your equipment remains compliant with current health and safety regulations.
5. Can roof edge protection systems be used on existing buildings?
Yes, roof edge protection systems can be retrofitted to existing buildings. Products like the Kee Guard permanent counterweighted guardrail system are specifically designed to be installed on existing roofs without the need for significant modifications. This flexibility makes it easier for building owners to enhance safety standards without extensive renovation work.
6. What are the key regulations governing roof edge protection in the UK?
In the UK, roof edge protection systems must comply with various health and safety standards, including EN ISO 14122 and BS EN ISO 1461. These regulations ensure that the systems provide adequate protection against falls and meet the required safety criteria. Additionally, the recent changes to BS 7883 and BS 13700 have increased the standards for certification, making it essential for systems to be regularly inspected and re-certified.
For more information on industry best practices and additional safety resources, visit the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website.