FRP Barrier Rail Applications for Commercial and Industrial Settings

Accidents in commercial and industrial settings can have devastating consequences, causing physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses. In the United States alone, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from elevation accounted for a staggering 13% of workplace fatalities in 2021. Business owners, safety engineers, and facility managers can collaborate to mitigate these risks and implement effective fall protection. One hazard reduction method involves the use of properly designed and installed barrier rail systems. Traditionally, these rails have been constructed from materials like wood, steel, or aluminum. However, these materials come with limitations that can compromise their effectiveness and longevity. Here, we will explore a superior solution for barrier rails: fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP).

Here is what TJ Looper, Regional Sales Manager at Fibergrate, had to say about FRP barrier railing’s ease of installation and flexibility: 

“We do miles of guardrails and barrier rails. One nice thing about our railings is that they are easy to install if you are trying to solve a current problem such as a renovation on a roof. You can do barrier rails that aren’t fixed. For temporary shutdowns, we have ones you can move around, store, and bring back out as needed. They are safety yellow for high visibility.”

FRP barrier rails offer a number of advantages over traditional materials like steel, aluminum, and wood.

Fibergrate FRP barrier rail at water treatment facility

FRP barrier rails are versatile and can be used in a wide range of commercial and industrial applications:

Retail Environments:

• Protecting Customers and Employees: Barrier rails can safeguard customers and employees in high-traffic areas, such as around escalators, stairs, and display cases.
• Enhancing Store Aesthetics: FRP barrier rails can be customized to match the specific design aesthetic of a store, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment.

Warehouses and Distribution Centers:

• Safeguarding Workers and Equipment: Barrier rails can protect workers from falls and collisions with equipment in warehouse environments.
• Preventing Product Damage: Barrier rails can help prevent accidental damage to inventory and equipment.

Museums and Galleries:

• Safeguard valuable artifacts: Barrier rails protect priceless exhibits from accidental damage caused by visitors.
• Enhance visitor experience: Barrier rails can guide visitors through exhibits while ensuring they do not get too close to fragile artworks.

Zoos and Aquariums:

• Protect visitors from potential animal encounters: Barrier rails protect visitors from exhibitor trenches and create a safe distance between visitors and animals, preventing accidental contact or injuries.
• Guide visitor flow: Barrier rails can direct visitor traffic, especially in darker indoor exhibits, ensuring a smooth and safe flow.

FRP barrier rails offer a high degree of customization to meet specific needs and preferences. They can be tailored to fit various applications and environments, including:

• Height: Barrier rails can be customized to different heights to meet specific safety requirements.
• Shape: A variety of shapes and configurations are available, including straight, curved, and angled sections.
• Finish: FRP barrier rails can be finished in a variety of colors and textures to match the aesthetic of the surrounding environment.

Professional Installation

Proper installation is crucial to ensure the safety and longevity of FRP barrier rail systems. Fibergrate offers professional installation services to guarantee that the system is installed correctly and meets all safety standards.

By working with experienced professionals, you can be confident that your barrier rail system will provide optimal protection and performance.

The Kawaihau Boardwalk project in Kapa'a, Hawaii, is a prime example of how FRP can be used to create stunning and durable infrastructure. The project aimed to revitalize a dilapidated boardwalk and create a safe and accessible path for pedestrians and cyclists.

Fibergrate Composite Structures provided a solution using Dynaplank™ Boardwalk Plank and Dynaform® FRP pultruded shapes. The result is a beautiful and functional boardwalk that withstands the harsh coastal environment. The FRP components are resistant to corrosion, rot, and insect damage, ensuring a long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements. This case study highlights the versatility and durability of FRP in real-world applications.

Fibergrate is a leading manufacturer of high-quality FRP barrier rail systems. Our commitment to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction ensures that our products meet the highest industry standards.

Key Benefits of Choosing Fibergrate:

• Custom Solutions: We offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs, including custom sizes, shapes, and colors.
• Expert Design and Engineering: Our team of experienced engineers can design and engineer barrier rail systems to meet your exact requirements.
• High-Quality Materials: We use premium-grade FRP materials to ensure the durability and performance of our products.

By choosing Fibergrate, you are investing in a safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for your commercial or industrial project.

Contact us today to learn more about our FRP barrier rail products and services.

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See FRP railing in action below...