Are you looking to install some roof railing for safety at your business in West Palm Beach, FL? You’re not alone –many homeowners and business owners take steps to ensure the safety of their property and employees. While rooftop railings may seem like an afterthought, there are specific safety requirements that you’ll need to keep in mind when installing them. This blog post by Florida Roadway Guardrail & Signs Inc. discusses the most important factors to consider when choosing and installing roof railing.
1) Must be OSHA Compliant
A safely installed roof railing should follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements. According to the law, the employer must provide and install a fall protection system. The guard rail should have a top height of around 42 inches above the walking-working surface, while the top-edge height may exceed 45 inches. Also, the posts should withstand at least 200 pounds of force.
Remember to install the guard rail’s mid rail halfway between the top and floor level. The mid-rail should have a minimum breaking strength of 150 lbs or more. Professionals from the guard rail installation industry follow all safety requirements during installation and know the legal consequences.
2) The Guard Rail Should Navigate Around Roof Obstacles
An uncertified rail can put your employees at risk. You must install the guard rails in a manner that ensures the complete safety of people working on the roof and navigating around obstacles, such as chimneys, vents, pipes, or skylights. You should ensure that the railing passes through these areas without obstructing movement or traffic flow.
3) Railing Looks Good
Although safety and aesthetics are not mutually exclusive, you can go for added style. A good railing should be functional as well as pleasing to the eye. Many materials and designs are available, so you can find something that will complement your roofing system while meeting all safety requirements.
4) Posts and Brackets Should Be Corrosion Resistant
The posts and brackets that support your railing should be made of corrosion-resistant material. This is critical if your roof is located near the ocean or in a humid climate, as salt air and moisture can quickly corrode metal components.
By following these simple requirements, you can rest assured that your roof railing will provide years of protection for you and your loved ones.
A qualified professional contractor follows installation instructions carefully. They’re your best bet to creating a safe environment for your family and employees.
Here at Florida Roadway Guardrail & Signs Inc., we take safety seriously. That’s why our guard rails are designed and installed to meet or exceed all applicable safety requirements. If you’re in the market for a quality guardrail solution in West Palm Beach, FL, be sure to contact us. Our team would be happy to provide you with a free quote and answer any questions about guard rail or barrier installations.
