Project Snapshop
Project: Rooftop Fall Protection for 8 Residential Buildings
Application: Guardrails for rooftop openings and access points
Challenge: Existing parapet walls required costly fall protection upgrades
Solution: Lightweight clamp-on guardrails from Safety Rail Company
Result: Installed in two weekends; quoted under $75,000
Near the end of construction on eight two-story residential buildings, an inspection identified a fall protection concern. Rooftop openings were surrounded by parapet walls just 12 to 18 inches high, requiring additional protection.
The contractor initially faced extensive structural modifications estimated at $150,000 to $200,000. Seeking a more practical solution, they contacted CH Bull to evaluate alternatives.
The Challenge
The contractor considered reinforcing the existing parapet walls to support guardrails or increasing their height to 42 inches. Either approach would require opening the walls, modifying the structure, and restoring waterproofing and flashing.
A weighted-base guardrail system was another possibility, but rooftop conditions presented several obstacles:
- More than 100 weighted bases, approximately 108 pounds each, would be required.
- Mechanical piping and electrical conduit complicated placement.
- Heavy bases would need to be carried by hand to each location.
Evaluating a Better Guardrail Solution
After inspecting the rooftops, CH Bull recommended a lightweight clamp-on guardrail system manufactured by Safety Rail Company.
Each clamp weighed approximately 10 pounds, making it much easier to transport and install than the weighted bases. CH Bull provided samples for the contractor to review, demonstrating a practical alternative that would not require roof penetrations or additional waterproofing.
The CH Bull Solution
The clamp-on system used a combination of fixed-length and adjustable guardrails to protect the rooftop openings. Openings with roof access ladders incorporated swing gates for entry.
Each clamp could be installed in less than a minute, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for extensive structural modifications.
A three-person crew completed the installation over two weekends.
Project Outcome
The completed guardrail system provided fall protection around the rooftop openings without roof penetrations or costly parapet reconstruction.
The total quoted cost, including materials, labor, and incoming freight, was just under $75,000, significantly below the original estimated construction expense of $150,000 to $200,000.
Need a Rooftop Fall Protection Solution?
CH Bull helps contractors and facility managers find practical guardrail and industrial access solutions that address site-specific safety challenges while minimizing installation complexity and costs.