Roof Edge Protection Systems
There are no shortcuts when it comes to safety and working at heights. South Pacific Scaffolding has a stellar reputation for keeping everyone on a worksite safe and free from potential hazards across all of our scaffolding services. While safety across all our scaffolding services is a priority, there is a particular careful approach when it comes to ensuring worker safety when working at heights.
Every year, injuries from falls cost New Zealand over $24 million. While the financial cost is noteworthy, what often is not discussed is the human cost. Injuries from falls have long-term, life-altering effects on both the person and their family. From life-long disabilities to death, an injury from a fall is something no worksite should ever experience. This is why it is incredibly important to take every step necessary to ensure that worksites are kept safe and secure when any work is being done at heights.
One of the best means of keeping worksites safe is by having an expert team assemble, inspect and maintain adequate roof edge protection systems. Not only will this ensure that your worksite will meet all your legal obligations, but it will also ensure that all workers on the site return to their families at the end of the day happy and healthy.
South Pacific Scaffolding are Auckland’s roof edge protection systems experts.
What are Roof Edge Protection Systems?
A roof edge protection system is a series of components that are designed to work together to provide a safe working environment for those who need to access an area near the edge of a roof. These systems can be either temporary or permanent, depending on the needs of the worksite.
Components of Roof Edge Protection Systems
There are a variety of edge protection systems available, but they all share certain key components. First, edge protection systems must be securely attached to the scaffolding. This can be done with clamps, bolts, or straps. Second, edge protection systems must be tall enough to provide a barrier between the worker and the edge of the scaffold. The height will vary depending on the specific system, but it is typically around 1.5 meters. Third, edge protection systems must be able to withstand wind and weather conditions. This means that they must be made of durable materials such as steel or aluminium.
Permanent Roof Edge Protection Systems
Permanent roof edge protection systems are typically installed during the construction phase of a project and remain in place for the duration of the building’s life. These systems are generally made from steel or aluminium and can be customised to suit the specific needs of the building.
Temporary Roof Edge Protection Systems
Temporary roof edge protection systems are usually installed when work needs to be done on an existing building that doesn’t have any form of edge protection in place. These systems are generally made from timber or aluminium and can be easily removed when the work is completed.
Installing Roof Edge Protection Systems
Roof edge protection systems should be installed as early as possible during a project’s time frame. This ensures that contractors, sub-contractors and workers (such as electrical workers, builders and roofers) can use it throughout the project.
Installation and assembly need to take into account the forces that the system is likely to be exposed to as a result of being undertaken. Edge protection systems need to be inspected regularly, especially after any erratic weather or concerns from workers.
Proprietary system
A proprietary system needs to be installed by a competent person with the correct training. These systems must be installed with strict adherence to the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications. If the pitch of the roof is less than 25 degrees it needs to be rated, while a pitch greater than 25 degrees must be both rated and have infill panels in order to prevent equipment and tools from falling from the roof. All guard rails need to be installed by a competent person.
Using Scaffolding as Edge Protection
When using scaffolding as edge protection, the scaffolding structure needs to be assembled by a competent person. Mid and bottom rails need to be installed at 450 mm intervals and the top guard rail needs to be 900-1000 mm above where the projection of the roofline intersects with the guard railing.
Why Do I Need Roof Edge Protection Systems?
In New Zealand, any work that is carried out more than 2.4 metres above ground level must have some form of edge protection in place. This includes both commercial and residential buildings.
Roof edge protection systems are designed to keep workers safe from falling off the roof and injuring themselves. They can also help to prevent damage to the roof itself, as well as any equipment that may be stored on the roof.
Regulations for Roof Edge Systems in New Zealand
In New Zealand, there are strict regulations surrounding the use of these systems. scaffolding in New Zealand must be fitted with an approved edge protection system before any work can take place. These systems must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure that they are in good working order. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines. Roof edge protection systems play an essential role in keeping workers safe, and it is crucial that businesses in New Zealand take them seriously.
Any work being conducted above 2.4m is classed as working at heights. This means that even when working on a single-storey home, scaffolding and roof edge protection are required. There are good reasons for this – 50% of falls in New Zealand are from less than 3m. Most notably, this is most often from ladders or roofs. 40% of injuries from falls happen on residential sites .
Get in Contact with South Pacific Scaffolding to Ensure you have the Correct Roof Edge Protection System For your Next Project
When it comes to safety, you can never be too careful. That’s why it’s important to make sure that you have the correct roof edge protection system in place before starting any work. South Pacific Scaffolding is a leading provider of scaffolding and edge protection systems in New Zealand. We have a wide range of services to suit any project, and our experienced team can advise you on the best solution for your needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.