Parapet height question

[davecarlson98]

Because they can use a fall arrest harness, yo-yo, and tie-off point in place of a guard. That or the equipment is greater than 10-ft from the roof edge.

1015.6 Mechanical Equipment, Systems and Devices
Guards shall be provided where various components that require service are located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a roof edge or open side of a walking surface and such edge or open side is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor, roof or grade below. The guard shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond each end of such components. The guard shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.

Exception: Guards are not required where personal fall arrest anchorage connector devices that comply with ANSI/ASSE Z 359.1 are installed.​

I need guardrails or fall protection equipment around my new HVAC condenser on the roof of my 3 story townhouse. Everyone seems to use guardrails but it seems like a fall protection system would be easier and less expensive....am I missing something?

 

[e hilton]

Fall protection system requires the mechanic to have and wear a harness. If the mechanic has a helper, do you need 2 tie-off points?

 

[classicT]

I need guardrails or fall protection equipment around my new HVAC condenser on the roof of my 3 story townhouse. Everyone seems to use guardrails but it seems like a fall protection system would be easier and less expensive....am I missing something?

The service techs are rarely trained in use of fall protection, nor have the equipment. Guardrails are passive equipment, meaning they are there 24/7 and functioning.

I spoke to school recently that was adding guardrails around their RTU. They had determined that the annual training and replacement of PPE was far more expensive than the cost of installing the guardrails.

 

[curban20]

I specify these collapsible safety rails on many of my projects. When not in use the fold down out of sight and are not an eye sore.

https://www.dakotasafety.com/products/collapsible-guard-rails

We've tried to use these in the past but were told by our local inspectors (PA) that they can only be used in temporary conditions such as during construction unless we also installed fall protection anchors where someone could tie off until these are set up and in place. We opted to go for a permanent rail, but in cases where sight of a permanent rail is unwanted, maybe that would be a decent solution provided your jurisdiction will allow it.