Construction sites are full of potential hazards, especially at height. One misstep can lead to serious injuries. That’s why temporary edge protection is one of the most critical safety measures for elevated worksites.
What Is Temporary Edge Protection?
Temporary edge protection consists of barrier systems that prevent falls during construction, roofing, or maintenance work. These systems go around rooftops, balconies, floor slabs, or any elevated surface where there’s a fall risk. Their main goal is to protect workers and pedestrians by creating a physical boundary.
Key Functions
- Fall Prevention – The panels create a strong and visible barrier that keeps workers from accidentally stepping off ledges or elevated workspaces.
- Debris and Object Containment – They also stop tools or debris from falling to lower areas where people could be injured or property damaged.
These functions help projects meet safety regulations and protect lives—whether it’s a small rooftop job or a large high-rise project.
Where Is Edge Protection Used?
- High-rise buildings under construction
- Residential and commercial rooftops
- Industrial platforms and mezzanines
- Infrastructure projects such as bridges
- Any elevated edge with a fall hazard
They’re not just for large-scale urban builds. Even low-rise or short-term sites can pose significant risks that require reliable edge protection.
Canadian Regulations and Standards
In Canada, each province enforces fall protection laws through Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) provides national guidance, while provinces have specific regulations.
- In Ontario, Regulation 213/91 requires fall protection if workers are exposed to falls of 3 metres (10 feet) or more.
- In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC mandates guardrails or similar systems wherever there’s a fall risk.
Properly installed edge panels systems help companies meet these legal requirements while creating a safer work environment.
Build Safer, Work Smarter
Falls remain one of the top causes of injuries in construction. Using edge protection isn’t just about compliance, it’s a smart way to safeguard your team.
At Olivec, we offer strong, adaptable, and regulation-compliant edge protection panels. No matter the size or height of your project, our systems are designed to fit your jobsite and keep your crew safe.
