How has recent legislation changed freestanding roof edge protection requirements?
Last year, the BS 13700:2021 standard was introduced, the first piece of legislation specific to permanent freestanding edge protection. Amongst other things, it introduced clearer guidance on recertification and a requirement retroactively for wind speed calculations.
The update updated recertification rules on roof edge protection to better ensure systems remain compliant.
The new inspection results categories are:
- Pass – The system meets all guidance and remains in service.
- Conditional pass – The parts comply with the recommendations of a previous standard and do not immediately pose a safety concern. The system will remain in service, but a report and recommendations will be given to the duty holder, along with a completion date.
- Conditional fail – The system meets the recommendations of a previous standard. However, it presents an immediate safety concern (which can be improved). The system is taken offline, but a report and recommendations will be given to the duty holder with a timeline for completion. In order to return the system to service, it will need to be inspected again.
- Fail – The system does not comply with a previous standard and is therefore unsafe. If the system cannot be improved or repaired, the roof area will be closed to access routes and marked ‘Do not enter.
System owners are legally required to ensure edge protection is compliant, and organise a full inspection as soon as possible if one has not been performed since the introduction of BS 13700:2021.
Assuming a system is compliant because it was when it was installed, or because it has an existing certificate, is no longer sufficient, and could lead to serious trouble if an accident occurs.
All freestanding guardrail solutions supplied by APS are designed to be fully compliant to all relevant legislation. If you’re concerned about whether your existing system complies with BS 13700:2021, get in touch to book an inspection and recertification appointment with one of our engineers.