Description A Temporary Edge Protection System is a collective safety measure used in construction to prevent workers and objects from falling from a height. Governed by standards such as BS EN 13374, it provides a physical barrier around the perimeter and open edges of a structure. A Temporary Edge Protection System installed around the perimeter of the structure will protect anyone working in this area without them taking any action. Class A Temporary Edge Protection Systems are designed for flat surfaces with a maximum slope up to 10º. The system must resist a horizontal force of 0.3kN anywhere along the top of the Barrier deflecting a maximum of 55mm at the central point of the Barrier. In practical terms this means that the system must support the weight of a person who might be leaning against, walking beside, or at worst, stumbling into the edge protection. Two types of Temporary Edge Protection Systems are generally used on Concrete Framed Structures. This system commonly known as SR System or K Guard utilises drop-down wedges on the Posts which securely lock Mesh barriers onto their internal side. Another system commonly known as VT System or Combisafe has Mesh Barriers with a Top Bend which slides over the Post held near the bottom of the barrier against the Post with a sliding clip or cable-tie. TEMPORARY EDGE PROTECTION TRAINING Module 4 Training is for anyone who Installs, Alters, Dismantles or Inspects systemised Temporary Edge Protection Systems classified as EN 13374 Class A compliant. COURSE CONTENT PERSONAL SAFETY When altering or dismantling a Temporary edge protection system the operative can be exposed to open leading edges which means that they will need to connect to a Personal Fall Protection System to ensure that they cannot fall during this work. During this training course trainees will be shown how to inspect and wear a safety harness with a lanyard and assemble a Work Restraint System, as follows THE WORK AT HEIGHT HIERARCHY OF CONTROLS Legislation – Employers duty of care, Employees responsibilities. Equipment selection suitability and inspection. This practical training course comprises Explanation of EN 13374 Class A and its practical parameters. Familiarisation of Temporary edge protection components and how they should be installed correctly. SYSTEM AND COMPONENTS The system integrity depends on secure and accurate anchorage into the concrete floors, correct installation of Posts and Barriers with methods in place to ensure that Barriers won’t lift in high winds. ANCHORS & ANCHOR SOCKETS It is extremely important that anchors are selected, positioned and set, strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Typical Socket Base situations impose a tensile load on the anchor of approximately 6kN, and a shear load of at least 0.3kN for a 1mtr. long post. POSTS These should have a device or design function to ensure that they can’t be unintentionally lifted from the socket. BARRIERS Its critical that Mesh Barriers are installed in the inside of Posts, overlapping without vertical gaps between Barriers or between the Barrier and Base surface. INSPECTIONS In the UK, employers must comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005, which mandates that edge protection systems are maintained in good working order. Regular Inspections: Conduct and document visual inspections of the edge protection system before use each day and at regular intervals. Maintenance: Ensure the system is maintained in good working order and any damage or wear is promptly repaired. TRAINING ENVIRONMENT This course is conducted in a safe site zone with temporary edge protection in place. It will need anchor points for a personal safety system to connect to. CERTIFICATION Each delegate will be given one to one practical training and upon successful completion will be provided with a certificate with a 36 month validity period.
