From scaffolding to rooftops, the edges of tall structures often pose the greatest risk for those working at heights. Edge protection is crucial to keep everyone safe when accessing these areas. This includes guardrails and handrails, both of which are used to prevent falls.

As part of your edge protection preparations, it’s important to know which guardrails and handrails are suitable for your site. In this guide, we’ll look at the differences between your options and which types are right for your working environment. We’ll also answer some key questions, including how high your rails should be and how frequently they should be tested.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

What Are Guardrails and Handrails?

Guardrails and handrails are installed at the very edge of tall sites, providing a protective barrier between those working at heights and potential falls.

At Altus, we supply different types of rails for edge protection, including:

Freestanding guardrails: these use weights, uprights & cross rails to provide a solution that doesn’t need to be permanently fixed but is completely stable.
Collapsible guardrails: these fold out of sight when not in use, creating an unobtrusive and freestanding solution.
Fixed guardrails: these are secured to the site using drilled holes and bolts for a more permanent solution to edge protection.

Abseil points are a type of eye bolt used specifically for rope access. You might also see them referred to as abseil eye bolts or abseil anchors.

What’s Best For Your Site?

Each of the three main rail types is best suited for different projects.

A freestanding guardrail, for example, is ideal as a temporary and permanent solution in an area with plenty of floor space. They don’t have to be drilled into the building, either, keeping disruption and lasting marks to a minimum.

If space is at a premium, fixed guardrails are better suited to the site as they don’t have legs to house weights. Fixed rails are more compact and the preferred choice for metal roofs.

Collapsible guardrails are perfect for sites where you don’t want the look of guardrails to ruin the aesthetic of the architecture. They’re also ideal for listed buildings as they’re freestanding, reducing the risk of damage and enabling quick removal without a trace.

What Is the Required Height For Guardrails?

When working at heights, guardrails and handrails should be at least 950mm tall to meet UK government guidance. The gap between the top horizontal rail and the next should be no more than 470mm, too, and toe boards should be at least 100mm tall, though the taller the better in terms of safety.

If you’re worried about compliance, get in touch with our team and we’ll be happy to help.

Do You Need Guard Rail Testing?

Yes, guardrails need to be tested when working at heights. This follows The Working at Height Regulations (WAHR) and The Provision and Use of Work Equipment (PUWER), both of which state that all edge protection rails should be inspected by a professional. It’s recommended that testing should occur at least every 12 months.

Eye bolts used for fall protection purposes should be tested every 12 months
Eyebolts and abseil points used for rope access purposes should be tested every 6 months.
Compliance with BS EN 795 & BS 7883 2019

What to Expect from Eye Bolt and Abseil Point Testing

When you contact Altus for an abseil point or eye bolt inspection, we’ll carry out comprehensive checks in accordance with BS EN 795 and BS 7883 2019 on all your anchor points.

This includes a full review of the system technical file, thorough on-site audits to assess the quality of the anchor, and when necessary, load tests of the anchors. We can also carry out preventative maintenance across the different types of eye bolts, helping your fall safety equipment last longer.

Book a Consultation

If you’re looking for abseil point and eye bolt testing to keep your systems compliant, we can help. At Altus, we provide nationwide safety testing and maintenance for fall protection equipment, helping keep everyone safe when working at heights.

To learn more about our services or book an eye bolt inspection, get in touch with our team.

Guardrails and Handrails: Everything You Need To Know