No matter their size, all unsecured building roofs pose a fall risk. Committed to providing a safer environment for workers accessing its roof, a gas station in Kemptville, Ontario, chose Delta Prevention’s collective protection solutions. Thanks to our distributor, Innovative Access, this project was successfully completed with the same dedication and rigor we bring to all our projects, regardless of their scale. Because beyond the size of a project, our mission remains the same: protecting workers’ lives.
Customization of the Access Ladder Guardrail
The roof of this gas station is accessible only by a fixed ladder positioned very close to a wall on the left, making it challenging to install a conventional ladder guardrail system. This configuration restricted workers’ space when exiting the ladder, increasing the risk of imbalance or falls. Aware of this constraint, our experts designed a custom solution to ensure a safe transition between the ladder and the roof surface.
The solution chosen was to add a short extension to the 28-foot section of VSS Compact guardrail, allowing for the installation of a “D” return. This extension serves a dual purpose: first, it enhances the roof's perimeter protection, and second, it acts as a stable handhold, providing workers with additional support when exiting the ladder safely. This attention to detail reflects our commitment to adapting each installation to real-world conditions, optimizing both safety and ergonomics.
Securing this access point was especially important since the roof houses several essential mechanical units, including compressors, a condenser, and a ventilation unit—critical to the gas station’s operations. These systems require regular maintenance, meaning technicians and maintenance staff frequently access the roof. By installing an effective collective protection system, we helped minimize risks for these workers while ensuring the station’s operations continue uninterrupted by preventable accidents.
Accessorizing Our Freestanding Guardrails
To enhance the safety of this project, kickplates were installed in front of the guardrail. Required in the absence of a parapet, they prevent tools or other objects from falling and potentially injuring someone on the ground. Integrated directly into the guardrails, these aluminum kickplates help minimize risks by containing materials and equipment.
At Delta Prevention, we tailor our solutions to the specific needs of each project and offer this option to those looking to maximize the safety of their installation, as illustrated by the images in this case study.
Conclusion
Through a thorough site analysis and a tailored approach, Delta Prevention provided a safe and effective solution for this gas station in Kemptville. The installation of the guardrail with a “D” return and the addition of kickplates demonstrate our commitment to exceeding standards to maximize worker safety.
Each project is an opportunity to innovate and address unique on-site challenges while ensuring reliable and long-lasting collective protection.
