With the rise in popularity of the counterweighted guardrails, it was to be expected that the Canadian Standard Association would standardize the design, testing and installation. The additional certification will ensure that the safety equipment you install on your rooftop has met the most rigorous testing conditions and is backed by an equally professional and meticulous manufacturer. Here are the benefits to the CSA Z259.18:19.
CSA Z259.18:19 Counterweighted Guardrail Standard: Tested in Extreme Conditions
The CSA testing procedure is extremely rigorous and is meant to mimic real-life condition and push the counterweighted guardrails to its limits. The CSA Z259.18:19 requires testing of the counterweighted guardrails on a:
- Sloped surface: the testing surface needs to be sloped at a 5-degree angle for every CSA Z259.18:19 test. This will increase the stability required and ensure that the guardrail will remain stable when the roof is not perfectly flat.
- Wet surface: needless to say, roofs will eventually get wet. Traction is the main limit for counterweighted guardrails as they rely on their weight to stay in place. Testing on wet surfaces will ensure equal performance whether the surface is dry or not.
- EPDM membrane: EPDM is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane that is widely used in flat and low slope roof. It has a slick surface a present a “worst case scenario” for traction.
CSA Z259.18:19 Counterweighted Standard: Dynamic Testing
Compared to the National Building Code standard that requires only static testing, the CSA standard includes rigorous dynamic testing. This testing simulates a moving object or person dynamically loading the guardrail. This creates an additional stress to the system and is a true test for any counterweight guardrail system.
CSA Z259.18:19 Guardrail Standard: Beyond the Testing Methodology
But the CSA Z259.18:19 standard is more than simply a testing methodology. It includes the oversight of an engineer from the first step to the last. This ensures that the fall protection system meets the highest standard both in terms of design, documentation and installation.
Amongst others, the CSA Z259.18:19 compliance requires:
- Analysis or the location, topography, exposure to chemical mist, extreme temperatures, coastal exposure, wind loading, etc.
- Stamped drawings, with site-specific details, of which a copy must be posted at all entrances that provide access to the guardrail system.
- Detailed instructions, including assembly and disassembly procedure, components list and inspection frequency.
- Annual inspection by a competent person
This ensures that every section of non-penetrating guardrail will be designed, installed and maintained to the highest standard.
If you are interested in knowing more about the CSA Z259.18:19, please reach out by email to info@deltaprevention.com