What is BS 13700:2021 about?
Until now there’s been no standard that specifies fit for purpose, permanent, counterweighted edge protection systems of the type used to protect workers carrying out maintenance on flat roofs. BS 13700:2021 fills that gap.
Who is BS 13700:2021 for?
- Architects
- Civil engineers
- Structural engineers
- Surveyors
- Facility managers
- End-user clients
- Manufacturers of edge protection systems
- Installers of edge protection systems
- Fall protection specialists
- Work at height specialists
Why should you use BS 13700:2021?
This standard specifies requirements for the design, performance, testing, inspection and marking of manufactured free‐standing permanent guardrails that rely on mass and friction, and that are intended to protect workers from a fall hazard. These guardrails are not fixed to a structure.
BS 13700:2021 also provides requirements for instructions; static test methods, including partial safety factors, wind loading and procedures; content of test reports and information to be provided as part of the edge protection system; and inspection and maintenance.
NOTE: This standard does not apply to:
a) Temporary counterweighted guardrails (see BS EN 13374)
b) Warning chains/posts used for demarcation
c) Netting or infill panels used as barriers
d) Guardrails that penetrate the structure and secure to the substrate
e) Guardrails designed to support material‐handling equipment
f) Guardrails intended for use on surfaces with a slope of more than 5⁰