Fixed Edge Protection And Safe Access

Wherever there is a risk of falling, edge protection should be used. The risk does not always have to be at height.
Many situations can lead to a fall, including roof edges exposed, balconies, parapets and mezzanines.

Safety Barriers for Factories/Warehouses
In factories and warehouses, permanent barriers can be required to prevent the movement of machinery, dangerous materials, or sudden changes in level. In this case, it’s important to provide a clearly marked route throughout the building for workers and visitors so they know where the safest places are.

Mezzanine Edge And Safe Loading
The edges of mezzanines in factories also need to be given special attention when it comes to safety. This type of exposed edge can be a serious threat to workers on the mezzanine as well as those below. As a minimum, a protective barrier along the perimeter should be installed as well as toe boards where needed to protect workers.

Pallet loading to the edge of the mezzanine can be a risky task, as workers often have to remove part of the section in order to gain access. The edge is dangerously close and the possibility of a fall is high. This can be eliminated by installing a pallet gate, which will ensure the edge is always protected.

Increase the height of low walls or parapets

Falls can also happen along walls and parapets that are not built to the 1100mm standard. Kee Klamp barriers can be fitted to the top of the wall to add height.

If required, they can be palm-fixed into the side wall. However, this will require a temporary fix to reach the edge. In this situation, scaffolding or mobile access platforms may be needed to fix the guardrail safely.

How to install edge protection safely
It is important to take every precaution possible to protect the installers when installing building edge protection. It is important that they wear the correct PPE and receive the required training. Transferring materials to the roof should be done in a secure and safe manner.

Safe Access and Collective Protection
Installed, a Kee Klamp can provide collective roof protection, meaning all visitors are contained within the perimeter of the roof with no exposed areas or breaks. A self-closing gate will ensure that if access is needed through the system the void behind the user is filled automatically. This eliminates the possibility of human error, and is a better option than chains or link that may not be returned to their closed positions.
Easy Handrail Installation
Kee Klamp rails are easy to install and don’t require specialized equipment or labour. The base flanges are bolted onto concrete or solid surfaces with chemical or mechanical fixings.

The tubing can then be locked into place with an allen key, or a hexagonal-headed drill bit. Kee Klamp is a popular solution because it’s easy to install and doesn’t require welding or hot work permits.