Working Near Unprotected Edges: Guardrails and Warning Lines
The Problem
Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of fatalities in Canada’s construction industry. Working near unprotected edges—such as rooftops, open-sided floors, or elevated platforms—poses a serious risk to workers. Without effective fall protection systems like guardrails or clearly marked visual barriers, a single misstep can lead to severe injury or death. Today, we’ll examine the hazards of unprotected edges and the safety measures that can prevent these tragedies.
Identify the Hazards
- Falls: The most significant risk when working near unprotected edges. A slip or loss of balance can result in a fall from height
- Environmental Factors: Wind, wet or uneven surfaces, and poor lighting can increase the likelihood of a fall
- Inadequate Protection: Missing or poorly installed edge protection systems, or failure to use required fall arrest equipment
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Install and Use Edge Protection
- Edge protection is the first line of defence and must comply with CCOHS guidelines and applicable CSA standards (e.g., CSA Z797 for scaffolding and edge protection)
- Top Rail: Typically positioned between 900 mm and 1100 mm above the working surface
- Mid Rail: Installed midway between the top rail and the platform
- Toe Boards: Required to prevent tools or materials from falling and creating secondary hazards
Set Up Visual Barriers or Warning Lines
- Where guardrails are not practical:
- Place visual barriers or warning lines at least 2 metres from the unprotected edge
- Ensure they are clearly visible and durable enough to withstand wind and general site activity
Inspect Work Areas
- Check for unstable edges, missing handrails, or temporary platforms with inadequate guarding
- Report any hazards or non-compliant edge protection systems immediately
Use Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS)
- If edge protection is not feasible, use a certified fall arrest system anchored to a secure point
- Always inspect harnesses, lanyards, and connectors before use
- Fall arrest equipment must meet CSA Z259 standards
Stay Aware and Focused
- Stay alert when working near edges
- Avoid distractions—especially when carrying materials or using tools
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A recent incident occurred when a worker stepped back on a rooftop to avoid a falling tool and fell 3.5 metres. There were no guardrails or marked barriers in place, and the worker was not wearing fall protection. They sustained multiple injuries. This incident could have been prevented with basic edge protection and greater situational awareness.
Employee Responsibilities
- Follow site-specific fall prevention protocols at all times
- Inspect edge protection systems and personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) before use
- Report any damaged or missing fall protection equipment or systems immediately
- Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially near unprotected edges
Employer Responsibilities
Discussion & Questions
- “What types of edge protection are currently installed on this site?”
- “Have you ever noticed missing or damaged guardrails or barriers?”
- “What steps can we take to improve safety near unprotected edges?”
- Encourage workers to raise safety concerns or share relevant experiences
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting all edge protection systems daily and reporting hazards as soon as they’re identified. Whether it’s a handrail, a barrier, or a harness—every control measure plays a role in protecting us from falls.
Wrap-Up
Falls from height are preventable. By using compliant protection systems, staying alert, and following CCOHS guidance and provincial safety regulations, we can prevent serious incidents and save lives. Thank you for prioritizing safety near unprotected edges.
Standards Overview
Under Canadian occupational health and safety legislation, employers must actively manage the risk of falls when working at height. According to CCOHS guidance and provincial fall protection regulations, fall protection is required wherever there is a risk of falling from any height that could result in injury. CSA standards, such as CSA Z259 (for fall arrest systems) and CSA Z797 (for scaffolding and temporary edge protection), outline the technical requirements for proper equipment and installation.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
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