Abstract

Roofers’ work ranks among the most hazardous, since these workers are exposed to approximately six times more risk of serious accidents than others, and falls are fatal in 75% of cases. Investigation reports on roofers’ falls in the United States indicate that inadequate protection is the main cause of these accidents. The installation of a guardrail around the roof is the best means of preventing them without hindering the work. The prefabricated guardrails used in Québec have never been subject to verification or validation tests. The researchers will verify their compliance with the Safety code for the construction industry, will determine the methods of installation and attachment that meet its requirements, and will carry out tests to collect data in order to model the realistic impact of a worker on a guardrail for the purpose of initiating a subsequent study. The technical documents and the practical guide resulting from this activity will ensure that guardrails comply with the Code and that they protect roofers better.