Perimeter edge protection is the collective barrier that stops people and materials going over an exposed edge — a physical guardrail at roof level, on slab edges and around openings. As the first line of defence in the hierarchy of fall protection, it prevents falls rather than arresting them. Red Safety Netting supplies and installs perimeter edge protection and guardrail systems nationwide for principal contractors and main contractors.
Prevention before arrest
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 set a clear hierarchy: prevent falls before relying on systems that arrest them. Perimeter edge protection sits at the top of that hierarchy — a guardrail physically stops a person reaching the edge in the first place, and contains materials and tools at the same time. It is collective protection that works for everyone on the deck without individual equipment, which is why it is the preferred measure wherever an edge can be guarded.
Why choose Red Safety Netting
- Genuine collective prevention. Our guardrail systems form a physical barrier at the edge — protecting everyone working on the deck without relying on individual harnesses.
- Temporary or permanent. We provide both temporary edge protection for the construction phase and systems suited to longer-term needs, adapted to the structure.
- Adaptable to the structure. Modular guardrail components fit varied roof types, slab edges, leading edges and openings, and adjust to site conditions.
- Part of a complete package. Edge protection can be combined with fall arrest netting, decking and access from one specialist supplier, so each risk on site is matched to the right system.
Our edge protection service
- Site assessment and design — we survey the edges and openings to be protected and design a compliant guardrail layout.
- Supply and installation — guardrail systems installed securely by competent operatives.
- Coordination — sequenced with the build and the other trades and systems on site.
- Inspection and removal — checked through the works and removed on completion.
Applications
- Roof-edge protection on new build and refurbishment
- Slab edges and floor openings on multi-storey structures
- Leading-edge protection during construction
- Flat-roof perimeters for maintenance access
- Any exposed edge where a fall can be prevented by a barrier
Edge protection or netting?
Edge protection prevents a fall at the boundary; fall arrest netting catches a fall over an open area. The Work at Height hierarchy favours prevention, so a guardrail is used wherever an edge can be guarded — but on open expanses such as a roof being worked across, fall arrest netting beneath the work is the right collective measure. As a full-range specialist, we will specify the correct combination for your site.
Perimeter Edge Protection FAQs
What is perimeter edge protection?
It is a physical guardrail barrier installed along exposed edges — roof edges, slab edges and openings — to stop people and materials falling. It is collective fall prevention: it protects everyone on the deck without individual equipment.
Is edge protection better than a safety net?
They do different jobs. Edge protection prevents a fall at the boundary, which the Work at Height Regulations favour over arrest. A safety net catches a fall over an open area. A guardrail is used wherever an edge can be guarded; netting is used across open expanses such as a roof being worked over. Many sites use both.
Do you offer temporary and permanent guardrail?
Yes. We provide temporary edge protection for the construction phase and systems suited to longer-term needs, adapted to the roof type, slab edge or opening being protected.
What edges can be protected?
Roof edges, slab edges, floor openings, leading edges during construction and flat-roof perimeters. Our modular guardrail adapts to varied structures and site conditions.
Do you install nationwide?
Yes. Red Safety Netting installs perimeter edge protection across the UK for principal contractors and main contractors.
Protect your exposed edges
Need compliant edge protection for a roof, slab or opening? Contact Red Safety Netting to discuss your site and arrange a quote.
