Are You Meeting Roof Edge Protection Requirements?

When it comes to roof edge protection, the safety of workers is of paramount importance. Knowing your system is safe and compliant and meets

roof edge protection

requirements gives you peace of mind. Below we have covered off some pointers to ensure you are meeting requirements. The tips below are based on AS/NZ standards and are general. Please note that Individual companies may have site requirements that are more stringent than these regulations due to a variety of factors including site specific hazards, company policy and jurisdiction. These site-specific requirements must be adhered to. We will explore the requirements and standards for roof edge protection, with a focus on residential settings and the EasyRail edge protection system.

 

Compliance with New Zealand Roof Edge Protection Standards:

In New Zealand, compliance with specific standards is essential. Below are some of the key compliance details to be aware of relating to AS/NZS 4994.1:2009.

  • Edge protection must be provided on all work surfaces where a person can fall 2 meters or more. This includes areas such as roofs, balconies, and elevated platforms.
  • Temporary roof edge protection systems on roofs with an angle of slope no more than 35 degrees must comply with the requirements of AS/NZS 4994.1:2009.
  • Three guardrails are required on Edge Protection systems, preventing falls off roofs with an angle of slope of 10deg - 35deg.
  • Only two guardrails are required on Edge Protection for gable ends.
  • Rails above the lower rail should be positioned in increments no more than 500mm apart.
  • On roofs with an angle of slope between 10 - 35 degrees, the lowest guardrail rail on Edge Protection should be no more than 150mm above gutter height.

 

 

Easy Access Edge Protection Training Course:

If you want to test yourself out and ensure you know the basic rules and regulations then check out our free Easy Access edge protection safety training course. We also have safety courses on mobile scaffold and ladders. This course is designed to equip individuals with the basic knowledge of the NZ standards and the use of the EasyRail edge protection system. Check it out here: Easy Access Co Training Centre

 

roof edge protection tips

 

Easy Access Easyrail System:

The EasyRail Edge Protection System is our most popular for residential home roof edge protection. This system fully complies to AS/NZS 4994 : 2009 so you don’t need to think twice about it meeting requirements.

roof edge protection tools

EasyRail is also one of the fastest and easiest to install in its class. With 4 standard post heights (1m, 2m, 3m, and 4m) that can be easily joined using the EasyRail joining spigot, this system offers unmatched versatility for residential edge protection. Installing the cantilever bracket is a breeze as it simply slides up the posts and tightens under the eaves. The base, mid, and top rails can then be securely installed using couplers and aluminium tube.

 

Ensuring compliance with roof edge protection requirements is vital to maintaining a safe working environment for individuals involved in roof work. Easy Access's Edge Protection Training Course offers an overview of edge protection systems, legislation, and safety standards, Check this out to get up to speed yourself. Remember, safety should always be a priority when working at heights, and adhering to the best practices for roof edge protection is a significant step towards achieving that goal. If you have any concerns about your edge protection system or project, feel free to contact us. If you are looking for commercial edge protection solutions we recommend you check out SafeSmart Access who have a massive range of edge protection solutions: Edge Protection in Construction | Temporary Roof Fall Protection Systems (safesmartaccess.co.nz)

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