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