Does your trade involve working at height, or do you have a project that involves working at height? You may get all sorts of advice on when and where you require edge protection, and it can get a little confusing. Here we hope to give you a better understanding of when and where edge protection is required.
Definition of a High-Risk Activity
Safework NSW state that working in an area where there is a risk of falling more than 2m is classed as a High-Risk Activity. As well, OHS states:
“if any personnel or contractors are at risk of falling 2 metres or more from a flat edge such as scaffolds, stairs, landings and etc, then you will need “edge protection” in place”.
When this is identified we need put measures in place to eliminate or reduce the risk of when working at heights.
Hierarchy of Control for Edge Protection
They recommend using the hierarchy of control:
- Elimination: Eliminate the hazard by physically removing it.
- Substitution: Replace the hazard
- Engineering Controls: Isolate the worker from the hazard
- Administrative Controls: Change the way people work
- PPE: Protect the worker with Personal protective equipment
Scaffolding and edge protection will usually fall under the ‘engineering controls’ option.
Edge Protection Requirements
Safe Work requires edge protection to be designed, manufactured, tested and installed following AS/NZS 4994.1 and AS/NZS 4994.2
How To Choose Edge Protection
Choosing the correct type of edge protection will often depend on several factors:
- Shape and size of the building/project
- Pitch of the roof (for roof works)
- Clearance around the base of the building
- Height to the working area
- Scope of works
- Length of hire required
Here at Stronghold Hire, we will discuss your project in detail and then advise the most suitable type of system. We factor in safety, cost, convenience, timeframes and the scope of work. The trades that engage us for edge protection include but are not limited to roofing contractors, air conditioning fitters, solar panel installers, balustrade fitters, waterproofing contractors and demolition crews.
Example Projects Using Edge Protection
Some typical jobs/scenarios in that we have installed edge protection (or edge rail as it is often known as) include:
- Repairing cracked tiles on a roof after a storm
- Installing solar panels
- Installing a new window and balustrade
- Flashing work on a bull nose roof
- Slab edge fall protection for workers access between two points
- Air conditioning unit install
- Removal of chippings and membrane on 7-storey roof.
- Installation of a skylight panel on a warehouse
The systems we have here at Stronghold, combined with the scaffold systems that we provide result in us being able to provide a safe working area for the most challenging of tasks.
Edge Protection Solutions Sydney
We don’t see problems, we only have solutions! Whether you are a builder or roofer, if you require edge protection for your project, do not hesitate to give us a call on 02 89852020 or contact us online and we will do our best to advise you on the safest and most effective solution.