The Advantages of Temporary Guardrails with Metal Panels Compared to Wooden Rails
In the construction industry, safety is a top priority, and the use of temporary guardrails is essential to prevent falls from height. There are different types of guardrails, but those with prefabricated metal panels are becoming increasingly popular compared to traditional wooden ones. Here's why they are an advantageous choice.
1. Durability and Resistance to Weather conditions
Metal panels, particularly those made of galvanised steel, offer greater resistance to corrosion and atmospheric agents. Compared to wood, which can deteriorate rapidly when exposed to rain, sun or humidity, metal railings maintain their structure and functionality over time.
2. Reduced Maintenance
Parapets with wooden rails require constant maintenance, such as anti-rot treatments or replacements in case of damage. In contrast, prefabricated metal panels require minimal maintenance, making them a more economical solution in the long term.
3. Ease of installation
Prefabricated metal guardrails are designed to be easily assembled using standardised modular systems. This reduces the risk of errors during assembly due to inadequate or lack of staff training or negligence, improving overall site safety.
4. Compliance with Safety Standards
According to EN 13374:2019, prefabricated metal guardrails meet higher performance standards for fall protection. They are classified into different classes (A, B, C) and guarantee adequate performance for specific inclines and heights. This regulatory compliance is a further advantage over wood, which can be uneven if not treated properly.
Prefabricated metal guardrails are also designed, tested and certified by the same manufacturer as a single fall protection system, while wooden guardrails, or those with metal posts and wooden rails, are usually assembled using different and sometimes incompatible products. This means that the employer must demonstrate the suitability of the guardrail, for example, ‘by proving that it can withstand the stresses specified in the UNI EN 13374 standard for specific use,’ as indicated in the INAIL technical manuals for temporary guardrails. Failure to do so, in the event of an accident, could result in criminal liability.
5. Versatility of Use
Prefabricated metal guardrails can be installed on various types of supports, such as reinforced concrete, steel or wood itself, thanks to adaptable fastening systems. This flexibility makes them ideal for a wide range of construction sites.
6. Increased Structural Safety
Metal, being a more resistant material, offers greater load capacity and provides more reliable protection in critical situations. This is particularly important on temporary construction sites, where working conditions can change rapidly.
7. Advantages in terms of liability
The use of metal mesh guardrails compliant with EN 13374 helps companies and clients demonstrate that they have adopted adequate collective protection solutions, in line with Italian Legislative Decree 81/08.
Conclusions
Temporary guardrails with metal panels are a safe and cost-effective investment for construction companies. In addition to ensuring greater safety for workers, they reduce maintenance costs and simplify installation. Metal panels are the ideal choice for complying with workplace safety regulations under Legislative Decree 81/08 and optimising construction site operations.