Managing Fall Risk on Construction Sites: A Guide to Edge Safety System Selection, Legislation and Implementation
The biggest file on the desk of project managers and OHS experts in the construction industry is undoubtedly “Risk Management” file. Looking at the statistics of occupational accidents at construction sites, “falling from height” incidents constitute the most critical risk group in terms of both human health and the legal future of the project.
Traditional methods (railings made of rebar or wooden planks) are no longer sufficient to meet today's requirements for speed, efficiency and stringent OHS legislation. Modern construction sites require fast and certified guardrails that eliminate risk at source and are quick to install. Temporary Edge Safety Systems (Steel Barriers) transition.
So, what exactly do these systems offered with the assurance of Bayrakcı Metal bring to your project in terms of technical standards, cost advantage and field applications? Here is our comprehensive guide.
1. Risk Management: Why “Collective Protection” is a Priority?
The hierarchy in occupational safety is clear: First eliminate the hazard at source, then provide collective protection, and finally rely on personal protective equipment (PPE). While the use of seat belts is at the discretion of the personnel, Edge Security Systems is a “Mass Protection” measure that tolerates staff error.
- Active and Passive Protection: Steel edge protection barriers prevent falls by stretching in case personnel lose their balance. The presence of the system creates a feeling of “psychological safety” in the personnel and increases the speed of work.
- No More Material Dropping: Integrated heel plates (kick plates) in the systems protect not only personnel, but also workers or pedestrians at lower levels by preventing hand tools, stones or rubble from falling down.
2. Legislation and Standards: What is TS EN 13374?
The basic standard referenced in OHS audits and specifications TS EN 13374‘is. This standard divides temporary edge protection systems into classes according to their durability and usage angles. Bayrakcı Metal products are designed according to these classes:
- Class A: For sloping surfaces up to 10 degrees. Resistant to static loads (general flooring edges).
- Class B: For inclined surfaces up to 30 degrees. Withstands both static and low dynamic loads.
- Class C: For surfaces (roofs, etc.) with steep slopes up to 45 degrees. Resistant to high dynamic loads (rolling personnel).
Expert Opinion: It is technically impossible for wooden railings to pass these tests and meet the standards. For this reason, steel systems are no longer a “preference” but a “necessity” in legal inspections.
3. Cost and Efficiency Analysis: Wooden railing etc. Steel Barrier
Wood may seem cheaper at the purchasing stage. However, when “Total Cost of Ownership” and “Labor Costs” are calculated, steel systems are much more economical.
| Criteria | Timber / Makeshift Balustrade | Steel Security Barrier |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly Speed | Slow (requires cutting, hammering, measuring) | Very Fast (Modular, plug-in system) |
| Resilience | Low (breakable, decomposes from weathering) | High (Galvanized/Painted steel structure) |
| Reuse | One-time (Waste/scrap when dismantled) | Continuous (When the project is finished, dismantle it and take it to the next one) |
| Corporate Image | Irregular and unsafe construction site | Professional and safe construction site image |
4. Application Areas and Installation Diversity
The structure of every construction site is different. Bayrakcı Metal Edge Security Systems can adapt to every point of the construction site thanks to different fasteners:
- Compression Strut System: It is used by compressing between the floor and the ceiling. No need to drill the concrete, installation takes seconds.
- Anchored / Screw System: It is fixed to concrete floor or curtain concrete with dowels. Ideal for stair buckets and elevator shafts.
- Clamped (Steel) System: In steel construction buildings, it is mounted by compressing without damaging the steel beams (I profiles).
Conclusion: Safe Construction Site, Profitable Project
Edge safety systems are not only a work safety requirement; they are also a strategic investment that increases the speed of your project, prevents material waste and minimizes your legal risks.
Bayrakci Metal we produce certified and long-lasting edge protection systems that meet the needs of your project in accordance with international standards. Don't take any risks on your construction site, prefer professional solutions.
