Guardrails in the Workplace

1. If employees are exposed to a fall hazard or are working at heights, a guardrail is one method that can be used to protect them from a fall.

2. "Handrail" is a term that is often used interchangeably with "Guardrail", but they are different structures. A safety handrail provides stability with a handhold and function to work as a guide along a stair or platform.

3. "Guardrails", on the other hand, are structures that prevent workers from falling off a platform, walkway, or landing. They have to be strong enough to resist breaking if a person falls or pushes on it.

4. They are often found around the edges of roofs or work platforms to prevent personnel from falling. They typically feature a top rail, mid-rail, and toe boards with evenly spaced vertical posts.

5. They are also used if there is a potential to fall into or onto dangerous equipment such as a conveyor belt.

6. Some heavy equipment even have guardrails in areas where employees need access but are exposed to an unprotected edge where they can fall.

7. Where are guardrails present at the workplace that we should be aware of?

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