Fortifying Industrial Environment With FRP Safety Barrier Rail Systems

What can happen if a safety barrier rail system fails? Falls from a higher level to a lower level can be a grim outcome. In the United States alone, fall injuries within the industrial/manufacturing sector are particularly concerning. According to the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, "Fall injuries in manufacturing have a greater likelihood of resulting in a lost work claim and are 59% more expensive than the average workers' compensation (WC) claim in manufacturing." These statistics paint a cautionary picture, highlighting the significant human and financial toll of workplace falls.

Unfortunately, some safety barrier rail systems fall short in the demanding environment of an industrial facility. Steel rails, once the mainstay of industrial safety, can come with significant limitations. Their susceptibility to corrosion in harsh environments creates maintenance burdens and potential safety hazards. Additionally, the weight of steel can make installation cumbersome and disrupt operations.

Fortunately, innovative solutions are emerging to address these concerns. Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) safety barrier rail systems as a superior alternative.

Here is what Justin Purcell, National Account Manager at Fibergrate, said about a project Fibergrate did for a manufacturing client:

“In one of our client’s manufacturing facilities, there is an assembly line. It had two different platforms that were about eight feet apart. They were having to move the platform all the time to move their guys around, so we built an elevated platform that’s eight feet long that has a rail on one side. That way, they can work on one side and they don't fall off the other side.”

Here are some of the benefits of using FRP for your railing systems.

Superior Durability and Low Maintenance:

• Long Lifespan: FRP's inherent resistance to corrosion, moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures ensures a significantly longer lifespan compared to traditional materials like steel.
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: Minimal maintenance requirements, such as occasional cleaning, reduce operational costs.
• Enhanced Safety: FRP's durability prevents premature deterioration, ensuring continued safety performance.

Lightweight and Easy to Install:

• Reduced Labor Costs: The lightweight nature of FRP components simplifies installation and reduces labor costs.
• Faster Deployment: Quick and efficient installation minimizes downtime and disruptions to operations.
• Minimal Structural Load: FRP's lightweight design reduces the load on structures, making it suitable for various applications.

High Strength and Impact Resistance:

• Robust Design: FRP barrier rails are engineered to withstand heavy impacts and harsh industrial environments.
• Reliable Protection: FRP provides a sturdy barrier that safeguards workers and equipment.

Safety and Slip Resistance:

• Non-Conductive: FRP is non-conductive, making it safe for use in electrical environments.
• Slip-Resistant Surfaces: FRP can be textured or coated with non-slip materials to reduce the risk of accidents.

By leveraging the unique properties of FRP, industrial facilities can significantly enhance safety, reduce costs, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Fibergrate understands that no two industrial environments are the same. That's why we offer highly customizable FRP safety barrier rail systems to perfectly suit your specific needs and applications. From mezzanines and loading docks to platforms and walkways, our systems can be tailored to provide optimal protection for workers in various situations.

Key Customization Options:

• Height: Barrier rail heights can be adjusted to meet OSHA and ANSI safety regulations, ensuring proper fall protection for workers at different elevations.
• Weight Capacity: We offer different FRP materials and configurations to accommodate varying weight loads on the barrier rail system.
• Access Points: Whether you require gated access points for specific areas or seamless transitions, Fibergrate can design a system that addresses your access needs.
• Configurations and Accessories: We provide a variety of configurations like straight runs, turns, and angled sections to fit the unique layout of your facility. Additionally, a range of accessories such as handrails, kickplates, and toe boards can be integrated for enhanced safety and functionality.

Compliance with Safety Standards:

Safety is our top priority at Fibergrate. All our FRP barrier rail systems are designed and manufactured to meet the safety standards set forth by regulatory bodies like OSHA and ANSI. This ensures compliance and minimizes liability concerns for your business. 

Success Story:

An energy company in Detroit faced the challenge of replacing a corroded and unsafe steel wheelchair ramp. The harsh winter conditions necessitated a durable and low-maintenance solution. Fibergrate stepped in, providing an FRP ramp constructed with structural shapes and molded grating.

This solution offered numerous advantages, including superior corrosion resistance, slip-resistant surfaces for year-round safety, compliance with ADA accessibility regulations, a long lifespan, and minimal maintenance requirements. This case study exemplifies how FRP can be successfully implemented to enhance accessibility and ensure the safety of users for years to come.

By prioritizing safety and selecting FRP barrier rail systems, you make a sound financial investment while enhancing the safety of your workforce, which boosts productivity and employee morale.

Ready to elevate the safety of your industrial facility? Contact Fibergrate today to learn more about our FRP safety barrier rail solutions. Our team of experts can provide tailored recommendations and assist you in creating a safer and more efficient workplace.

Want to Keep Reading? 

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See FRP railing in action in the case study below...