Updated: 5th November 2025
When it comes to ensuring the safety of personnel working at height, Heightsafe’s Freestanding Guardrails provide a cutting-edge, non-penetrative solution that protects lives while preserving the integrity of your roof. With over 50 years of combined experience in the Work at Height industry, Heightsafe is a trusted market leader in delivering high-quality, cost-effective edge protection systems that fully comply with UK safety standards.
Our Freestanding Guardrails are designed to provide a collective fall protection solution, allowing workers to move freely and safely while carrying out maintenance, repairs, or inspections on flat roofs and elevated surfaces. This system is particularly beneficial for environments where traditional fixed guardrails are not suitable due to structural or aesthetic reasons.
Freestanding Guardrails are collective protection systems designed to create a physical barrier around roof edges without the need for penetration or permanent fixings. This innovative system relies on a counterbalance weight configuration, which provides stability and security without compromising the roof’s waterproof membrane or structural integrity.
Ideal for flat roofs, plant areas, and other elevated surfaces, Freestanding Guardrails serve as a preventative safety measure to protect personnel from falling hazards. They are commonly used in commercial, industrial, and retail environments where regular access to rooftop areas is required for maintenance and inspections.
Counterbalance Design for Maximum Safety
Our Freestanding Guardrails utilise a proven counterbalance system that distributes weight effectively to prevent movement or tipping. This design eliminates the need for drilling or mechanical fixings, ensuring that the roof surface remains undamaged and watertight.
The counterbalance design is particularly beneficial for sensitive roofing materials, such as single-ply membranes or green roofs, where penetration could lead to leaks or structural issues. By maintaining the integrity of the roof, Heightsafe’s guardrails provide long-lasting protection without costly repairs or disruptions.
Adaptable and Versatile System
Heightsafe’s Freestanding Guardrails are highly flexible and can be customised to suit a wide range of roof types and layouts. Key features include:
Adjustable height from 850mm to 1350mm, allowing compliance with various safety regulations.
Removable top riser units for easy transportation and storage.
Pre-galvanised steel construction for superior durability and corrosion resistance.
Lightweight 2.5-metre cross rails and pre-cut handrails, weighing just 20kg, for easy handling and installation.
Stainless steel grub screws and clinch nuts for added strength and longevity.
D-End and Wall Fixed options to suit different roof configurations.
This adaptability allows the system to be reconfigured or extended as needed, making it ideal for both permanent installations and temporary projects.
Bespoke Solutions for Every Roof Type
At Heightsafe, we understand that every roof presents unique challenges. That’s why we offer tailored Freestanding Guardrail systems that are designed to meet the specific needs of your site. Whether you need to connect to ladder systems, bond to lightning protection, or work around rooftop plant and equipment, our expert team can create a bespoke solution that ensures maximum safety and compliance.
Our design team conducts thorough site surveys to assess the layout and potential risks before customising the system to fit perfectly. We also offer flexible options for both permanent installations and short-term hire, giving you complete control over your safety requirements.
At Heightsafe, safety is at the core of everything we do. Our Freestanding Guardrails are fully compliant with all relevant UK and European safety regulations, including:
EN ISO 14122 Part 3 (Safety of machinery – permanent means of access to machinery)
BS EN 13374: 2013 & 2004 Class A (Temporary Edge Protection Systems)
HSE INDG 284 “Working on Roofs”
HSG-33 Health and Safety in Roof Work
BS 6399: Part 2 1995 Wind Code
These rigorous standards ensure that our systems provide reliable protection against falls and withstand environmental factors such as wind load and weather conditions.
Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to keep your system compliant and effective. Heightsafe recommends testing at intervals not exceeding 12 months, with the option for more frequent inspections every 6 months for enhanced safety. Our dedicated Testing and Maintenance services are available to support you in meeting these requirements and maintaining compliance.
Design and Supply
Our in-house design team will assess your site and create a bespoke system that meets your specific safety requirements. We source high-quality materials and components to ensure compliance and durability.
Installation
Our specialist installation teams are fully trained and experienced in fitting Freestanding Guardrails on a wide range of roof types. We ensure minimal disruption to your operations and guarantee a secure and compliant installation.
Testing and Maintenance
To keep your collective edge protection system compliant and effective, Heightsafe offers regular testing and maintenance services. Our engineers will conduct thorough inspections, identify any wear or damage, and carry out necessary repairs to maintain compliance with safety standards.
Protect your workforce and maintain your roof’s integrity with Heightsafe’s market-leading Freestanding Guardrails. Our expert team is on hand to provide advice, conduct site surveys, and deliver bespoke solutions to meet your needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and receive a quote.
With over five decades of combined experience in the Work at Height industry, Heightsafe is the trusted choice for high-quality, non-penetrative edge protection systems. Here’s why clients across the UK choose us:
Unrivalled Expertise: Our specialist team has extensive knowledge and experience in designing, installing, and maintaining Work at Height safety solutions.
Superior Product Quality: Durable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant materials ensure long-lasting performance.
Complete Service Offering: From design and supply to installation, testing, and maintenance, we provide a full end-to-end service.
Custom Solutions: Tailored systems to suit your unique roof layout and safety requirements.
Competitive Pricing: Cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or safety.
Nationwide Coverage: Rapid response times and expert support across the UK.
Get in touch with Heightsafe’s friendly, professional team today for free, no obligation advice on your Work at Height compliance requirements.
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