If you had to prove today that your rooftop edge protection system meets OSHA’s standards, could you do it? Many workplaces assume their guardrails are compliant, but assumptions won’t protect workers when OSHA comes knocking, or worse, when a fall occurs.
Why It Matters
Falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. OSHA requires fall protection for anyone working near unprotected edges:
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Construction: at heights of 6 feet or more
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General industry: at 4 feet or more
That means rooftop guardrail systems aren’t optional, they’re mandatory.
What OSHA Requires
To be compliant, a guardrail system must check these boxes:
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Height: 42 inches (±3 in.) above the working surface
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Strength: withstand 200 lbs of force at the top rail and 150 lbs at the midrail
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Design: smooth, hazard-free surfaces with no overhangs or banding
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Integrity: secure installation that protects without creating new risks
The BlueWater Advantage
Tractel’s BlueWater rooftop railings were designed with OSHA in mind. They are fully non-penetrating, meaning you don’t damage the roof during installation, and they meet OSHA’s guardrail requirements for strength, height, and design. That makes them a practical solution for companies that want both safety and roof protection.
How to Verify Compliance
Here’s a quick self-checklist to put your system to the test:
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Height: Measure your rails, are they between 39–45 inches?
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Strength: Confirm the manufacturer’s specs meet OSHA’s load requirements.
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Design: Check for smooth finishes and no hazardous overhangs.
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Installation: Review how the system is secured; non-penetrating bases like BlueWater’s anchor plate system provide stability without roof damage.
Bottom Line
Compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines, it’s about protecting lives. If your rooftop edge protection system can’t confidently pass this checklist, it may be time to reevaluate. For more information, call Colorado Safety Supply at 303-537-5832.
