Guardrail Systems
Free-standing and fixed guardrail systems that provide collective edge protection on flat roofs, parapets and plant enclosures — the simplest way to keep people away from a fall.
Collective protection first
Where a roof edge, lightwell or plant deck can be protected with a guardrail, collective protection is usually the better control. Nobody has to remember a harness, and visiting contractors can work without a full fall-arrest brief. Power Comms Structures installs free-standing counter-balanced systems on membrane and asphalt roofs, and fixed bolt-down rails where the structure can take the load.
Free-standing systems are designed to protect the waterproofing: weights and non-penetrating bases keep the rail in place without a grid of new roof punctures. Fixed systems are used on concrete, steel and parapet upstands where a mechanical fix is specified. We also install self-closing gates at defined access points so the protected edge stays protected after someone has walked through.
Specified for the roof you actually have
No two rooftops are the same. Plant, PV arrays, roof lights, walkways and access hatches all change the line of the guardrail. We set out to the working drawings, coordinate with other trades, and leave a clean, inspectable installation. Aluminium systems keep roof loads down; galvanised steel is used where robustness and a heavier industrial finish are required.
Folding and demountable options are available where a façade team, crane or window-cleaning rig still needs occasional open access. Tell us how the roof is used and we will recommend the right mix of fixed rail, free-standing rail and gated openings.
Installed to current edge-protection practice
Guardrails are only collective protection if they are continuous, at the correct height, and terminated properly at corners, changes of level and access points. We install to the manufacturer’s system and the current edge-protection standards expected on UK construction and maintenance sites. Handover includes layout records so the next inspection is straightforward.
If you already know the system brand, send the specification. If you do not, describe the roof covering, parapet condition and the work that happens at the edge — we will come back with a practical proposal.
Typical scope
- Free-standing counter-balanced guardrails
- Fixed bolt-down guardrail systems
- Parapet and rooftop edge protection
- Plant area enclosures
- Folding and demountable variants
- Aluminium and galvanised steel options
- Self-closing access gates