The issue of roof safety is a very important factor in residential and commercial buildings in Australia.Guardrails, whether attached to warehouses, schools, shopping centres or apartment complexes are an important factor in preventing falls and also meeting all standards of safety at the workplace.Nonetheless, a roof guardrail is not the only measure that can be taken.Maintenance is necessary to ensure that the system is still operable as desired and offers quality protection over the years.
Understand the Importance of Routine Inspections
Effective maintenance is based on regular inspection.With time exposure to the elements may cause corrosion, loosening of fixings or small structure damage.These problems are not easily detected through your eyes and thus they require you to work on them.
It is suggested that you should physically check your roof guardrail at least once in six months.Additional inspections are to be conducted following extreme weather conditions, e.g. storm or high winds.When making inspections, search around on rust spots, chipped coatings, bent rails, broken welds or loose brackets.There may be a slight indication of wear that may be the start of a greater issue.
Examine Fixings and Anchor Points
Anchors points and fixings in a guardrail system are very important in determining its strength.The structure is fixed on the roof surface using bolts, brackets and base plates.In case these parts become loose or corrode, the stability of the system may be destroyed.
When inspecting, the movement or instability is to be tested gently.loose bolts need tightening and damaged fasteners should be replaced with appropriate and compliant ones.Subtle movement should never be overlooked because it can be a sign of some structural problems.Well-secured anchor points are the solution to the stability of the whole system under stress.
Manage Corrosion Proactively
One of the most prevalent maintenance issues of rooftop safety systems particularly in Australia in the coastal areas is corrosion.Air that is laden with salt may increase the rate of rusting, even on galvanised steel.
In case, you find some surface rust, wipe the affected part immediately, and treat it with preventive material like rust inhibitor or coating.The early prevention of corrosion will ensure that corrosion is not spread and it does not weaken the metal.In cases that are more severe, the guardrail can be repaired or replaced by the professionals.
Keep the Roof Area Clean and Clear
The indirect consequence of the debris accumulation may be affecting the state of your guardrails.Moisture surrounding base plates and connections can be done by leaves, dirt, dust and building materials that predisposes the possibility of corrosion.Moreover, stacked roof spaces can also pose other trip hazards.
Clearing the space around your guardrails and checking the functionality of roof drainage systems is often done regularly.Clean roof does not only enhance safety, but also makes the process of conducting the inspections very effective and comprehensive.
Engage Professional Assessments
Although regular visual examinations are necessary, professional examinations give an added guarantee.Experts in roof safety systems in Melbourne would be able to carry out thorough structural evaluation to keep in check with Australian standards.
Professional assessors are capable of finding the weaknesses that are concealed and ensure that the installation is up to the standard requirements promoted by the regulations and advise on the possible improvements.This is more so in the case of commercial properties, where there are strict requirements of health and safety in the workplace.
Document All Maintenance Activities
It is strongly advised to keep a record of the inspections, repair and maintenance work.The documentation is the evidence of the compliance which can be useful in case of audit or insurance claim.
The date when the records were inspected, the problems found, some steps performed and some parts substituted.Having a clear history of maintenance will allow following the wear tendencies, and it will be necessary to make informed decisions concerning the further upgrading.
Respond Quickly to Any Damage
In case the guardrail system is damaged by impact: maintenance equipment or heavy objects – get repairs undertaken as soon as possible.The slightest bending may decrease the strength of the structure and affect the safety performance.
Postponement of repairs poses a higher risk and can bring about lack of respect to the safety regulations.Timely response will save lives of occupants of the buildings and maintenance personnel who might be dependent on the system.
Final Thoughts
An intact roof guardrail is an essential component of a fall protection plan of any building.Long-term durability and safety can be guaranteed with the help of regular inspection, active corrosion control, safe fixing and expert evaluation.Life is not the only protection, but your investment is also safeguarded, and in years to come, you will be fully compliant with the Australian standards thanks to the regular maintenance.
