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Edge Protection

References:  R Record keeping requirement | E An engineering/certification requirement | P A permit to work requirement | S A safe work method statement (SWMS) / written plan


Note: This section is to be read in conjunction with:


Design


E Edge protection system must be:

  • Designed by a Qualified Person (engineer)
  • Detailed on up to date drawings/plans


E Changes to the design or installed edge protection system must be authorised and signed-off by a Qualified Person (engineer).


Operational


Edge protection systems must be installed, used, dismantled and maintained in accordance with the relevant Australian standard/s and or engineers, manufacturers or suppliers specifications/drawings


Edge protection must be capable of withstanding a force of 0.55 kN (Kilo Newton) and consist of:

  • A top rail positioned between 900 mm and 1100 mm above the working surface
  • A mid-rail (positioned between 450 mm and 600 mm),
  • A continuous toe board at least 150 mm high

Or

  • Top rail and mesh panel
  • A toe board at least 150 mm
  • Wire which is at least 3 mm in diameter and have apertures not greater than 75 mm x 50 mm (NSW, VIC and WA) / 25mm x 50mm (QLD)

R Edge protection systems must be installed by a Competent Person. Refer to:


R The edge protection installer must provide MPX with a sign-off of the installed edge protection incl. confirming compliance with the relevant Australian standard/s and or engineers, manufacturers or suppliers specifications.


VIC - The inspection is to include the following verification's:

  • The temporary edge protection fully protects the edges in the areas specified
  • Connections between components of the temporary edge protection are secure
  • The connection of the temporary edge protection to the building is secure
  • The temporary edge protection has been installed as per the design and/or manufacturer’s instructions


R Post installation inspections must be completed at intervals as specified in


Where inspections identify damage or defect, immediate action must be taken to rectify the damage or defect.

Legal and Other Requirements

  • AS 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders – Design, Construction and Installation
  • AS/NSZ 4994.1: Temporary edge protection – general requirements
  • AS/NSZ 4994.3: Temporary edge protection – installation and dismantling for edges other than roofs
  • AS/NZS 1576.1 Scaffolding – General requirements
  • Scaffolding Code of Practice (Qld) 2009


Document Control


Version 1 August 2019 – New Standard

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