Guardrail

Introduction to guardrails

Guardrails are an essential component of collective protection and provide a safe environment for everyone on roofs or at heights. They are an effective measure to minimize the risk of falls. By installing side protection systems from LUX-top® reduces the need for individual safety devices for each person, saving both time and resources. This article takes a closer look at the different types of guardrails, their requirements, installation options and important aspects of functionality.

Main purpose of guardrails

The main purpose of guardrails is to protect people from life-threatening falls by preventing them from falling or slipping over a fall edge. falling edge edge. The dangers of falls are omnipresent in many working environments, especially on roofs or in areas with height differences. Side protection systems from LUX-top® provide a physical barrier that acts as a safety net and significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents.

Types of guardrails in accordance with ASR A2.1

In accordance with the guidelines of ASR A2.1 (General safety and health requirements for the construction of workplaces), guardrails are divided into three main categories:

Railings with a closed surface: These railings offer a continuous, closed surface and are ideal for high-risk areas. LUX-top® offers customized guardrail & side protection solutions in this category to ensure optimum protection.
Infill railing: In these railings, the infill consists of vertical struts that prevent people from passing through while providing a good view. These are particularly useful in areas where visual surveillance is required.
Knee railing: These railings have a horizontal brace at knee height and offer additional protection for people who have to bend or kneel. LUX-top® ensures that such guardrails are used effectively in environments where frequent movement near the edge of a fall is required.

Requirements for guardrails

To ensure their functionality and safety, guardrails must meet strict requirements. The essential requirements include

Minimum height: Guardrails must have a minimum height of 1 meter to provide adequate protection against falls.
Distances between the elements: Specific distances must be maintained between the railing components to ensure that people cannot fall or slip through the openings.
Prevention of slipping: Slipping must be prevented, especially below the knee bar, to ensure comprehensive protection.

These requirements are crucial in order to guarantee user safety and comply with legal requirements.

Mounting options and functionality

Guardrails from LUX-top® can be installed both temporarily and permanently on roofs, depending on the specific requirements of the construction site or work area in question. There are various options for the installation of guardrails:

Temporary guardrails: These guardrails are designed for short-term use and can be installed and removed quickly. They are ideal for construction sites where short-term access is required.
Durable guardrails: These guardrails are designed for long-term applications and provide continuous protection for employees. They are robust and resistant and can be adapted to the specific conditions of the roof.

It is important to note that guardrails must either be weighted or firmly connected to the roof structure in order to fulfill their protective function. LUX-top® offers various methods for secure connection, e.g. by welding to the roof membrane or using suitable fastening techniques. These measures ensure that the railings remain stable even under extreme weather conditions or heavy loads.

Conclusion

Guardrails are an indispensable safety measure to ensure the safety of people at heights. LUX-top® offers effective solutions for collective protection and minimizes the risk of falls. Thanks to the different types and compliance with requirements, guardrails can be adapted to the specific needs of construction sites and working environments. When selecting and installing guardrails, it is crucial to observe the applicable regulations and guidelines to ensure the highest possible level of protection for everyone involved. The correct planning and implementation of guardrails by LUX-top® not only contributes to the safety of employees, but also promotes a positive safety culture within the company.