A Protective Guarding Q&A

With Kyle Pollino

ReadySeries FRP platforms and crossovers stand up to conditions where steel and wood fail. Image courtesy of OSCO Safety.

1. What are the best materials to use for structures that guard platforms, stairs and other potentially risky structures? why are they the best?

Fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) is the best option for guarding access platforms. FRP solves safety concerns and is also a safer option than metal, wood and aluminum materials in a variety of ways. FRP is corrosion resistant so it’s able to withstand harsh environments and is safe around chemicals. Other materials, like steel and wood, can rust or corrode and eventually have issues structurally. FRP doesn’t conduct electricity and has low thermal conductivity. If your workplace experiences excessive heat or cold, FRP doesn’t transfer the heat or cold along railings, stairs or other safety structures.

2. What kinds of features enhance the safety of people using those structures?

A non-skid surface is one feature that enhances safety when using platforms and other walkway structures. Non-skid surface grit is a manufactured feature of the product, not an add on, and gives an additional layer of resistance against slips, trips and falls that can happen in the workplace.

An added safety enhancement that comes from using FRP compared to other standard building materials is the differentiating color nosing of stair treads. Stamped metal or other products often have a singular color. Our FRP stairs feature contrasting colors between the treads and nosing, clearly signaling the edge of each step and helping to prevent potential tripping hazards.

3. Why might a company choose modular safety products?

A company would choose modular safety products for a variety of reasons, but one primary reason is the ability to address safety concerns quickly. Modular FRP products are often packaged and shipped in easy-to-assemble kits. FRP structures are lightweight, so the need for heavy machinery, cranes, overhead lifts and power equipment is eliminated. FRP platforms can be assembled and installed by one or two individuals.

ReadySeries FRP products install with ordinary tools. There’s no welding or special skills required. Image courtesy of OSCO Safety.

4. What OSHA & IBC standard/guidelines should be considered when choosing protective guarding?

The OSHA standards that industry professionals should be aware of with respect to guarding, particularly in walking and working surfaces, would be 1910.29. It’s also important to become familiar with the IBC 2024 standard Section 1015 – Guards.

5. Should handrails on stair sections be a standard size, or are there reasons to customize the sizing?

Railings on stair systems should be customized to meet the slope of the stairs and should meet minimum height requirements as prescribed by OSHA and IBC.

6. What should facility managers know about handrails for walkways and mezzanines?

The meaning of the term “handrail” has changed over the years. Handrail refers to the section of a rail that is grabbed to hold on to a stair guard system. Previously, the term was used to describe what are now called guardrails. Facility managers should know that guardrails are required as a form of passive fall protection (guarding) for any elevated walking surfaces 4 feet or greater (per OSHA) from the ground.

7. What are crossover stairs and where and how are they used?

Crossover stairs are used when access needs to be provided, and there’s an obstacle to overcome. For example, if there’s an obstruction in an area that workers need to access, crossover stairs are installed to “cross over” the obstacle, rather than traveling around it.

8. What are the height regulations for crossover stairs?

Height requirements for an outdoor application are dictated mostly by the project, and the assumption that standard fall protection requirements for walking and working surfaces are being met. The height regulations for indoor crossover stairs should follow OSHA standard 1910.25 (b). requiring 6 feet, 8 inches of minimum clearance from walking surface to overhead obstruction. The clearance as outlined in the above standard should be measured from the leading edge of the stair tread.

9. Can crossover stairs be moved as needed?

Generally, crossover stairs are a permanent structure that is meant to be anchored to a stable foundation. In some scenarios, crossover stairs may be moved if the project requirements change. However, in order to keep workplace safety first and foremost, crossover stairs should be permanent structures or at least anchored during the time of use.

Kyle Pollino is Sales Manager for OSCO Safety. OSCO Safety solves safety, access and maintenance needs quickly and cost-effectively, with a range of ready-to-ship products. From FRP structural shapes to ReadySeries modular structures, OSCO has advanced the safety and maintenance industries with innovative solutions for over 27 years. Full-service solutions such as turn-key structural engineering, drafting, design and 3D modeling, fabrication and assembly and kitted packaging are also available. oscosafety.com.