GR37 Case Study
Revolutionizing rooftop safety with the new and innovative GR37 Non-Penetrating Guardrail System.
)
Situation Overview
The need for fall protection arose from an elevated section of the roof that stood 4 feet above the main roof level. The white color of the roof made it difficult for workers to discern the drop-off, creating a significant safety hazard near the unprotected edge. Recognizing the potential risk, the company decided to invest in a guardrail system that would not only enhance safety, but also streamline installation efficiency
By opting for a modular aluminum rooftop guardrail system, the company ensured that its solution complied with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, providing peace of mind for both management and employees. The guardrails were designed for quick assembly, allowing the company to maintain productivity on-site.
Additionally, the system’s ergonomic design made it easy to transport and position. With this proactive approach, the company not only prioritized the protection of its workers but also demonstrated its commitment to fostering a culture of safety in the workplace.
Beverage Manufacturing Facility - Muncie, IN
The importance of fall protection and height access solutions in the packaging and manufacturing industry
In the beverage packaging industry, where manufacturing plants often feature complex and expansive rooftop structures, height access and fall protection solutions are crucial for the following reasons:
Worker safety: The primary reason for implementing height access and fall protection solutions is to enhance the safety of workers. Falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities, making fall protection a nonnegotiable aspect of occupational safety.
Reduced downtime: For facilities that operate around the clock to meet demand, any incident could lead to costly downtime. Height access solutions that provide secure and efficient ways to reach elevated areas streamline operations by reducing the downtime that could be caused by an accident.
Compliance with regulations: The packaging and manufacturing industry is subject to strict safety regulations set by organizations such as OSHA. These regulations require businesses to provide adequate fall protection for workers operating at heights. Implementing effective fall protection solutions ensures compliance with these regulations but also protects companies from potential fines, legal liabilities and reputational damage.
Versatile and efficient operations: Height access and fall protection solutions, such as modular guardrails, offer adaptability for various tasks and environments. These flexible solutions allow companies to respond quickly to changing operational needs while maintaining safety standards.
Implementing a reliable fall protection system like the GR37 is not just about compliance with safety standards; it's about safeguarding the well-being of their workforce and ensuring continuous, uninterrupted production.
)
Cost savings and improved efficiency
The positive feedback from the installation team underscores the system’s practical benefits — quicker installation times and ease of handling due to the ergonomic design of the bases. Compared to the previous GR34 system, which took an estimated 60 to 90 minutes to install, the GR37 system was up and running in just 45 to 60 minutes. This improvement reduced labor costs and minimized disruptions to the plant’s operations.
The reduced weight of the base components — from 100 lbs in the GR34 system to just 54 lbs in the GR37 — made a significant difference during installation. The ergonomic design of the bases allowed installers to handle them more easily, reducing strain and expediting the setup process. The innovative stackable design of the bases also contributed to the ease of transportation and positioning on the roof, further streamlining the installation. This improvement not only enhanced the safety and efficiency of the installation process but also demonstrated the GR37’s potential to set a new standard in the fall protection industry.
)
Looking ahead
The successful implementation of this system not only mitigates the specific hazard posed by the elevated roof section but also serves as a model for future safety enhancements across all their facilities. As the GR37 system prepares to launch industry-wide, this case study stands as a testament to its efficacy and the critical role it plays in safeguarding workers in complex industrial environments.
Partner with Kattsafe to enhance worker safety
Kattsafe's modular rooftop safety rail system offers a dependable solution that complies with industry safety standards and regulations, playing a crucial role in your company's commitment to promoting safe working conditions for employees and external partners.
Whether you are working in the office at Kattsafe, talking with us over the phone or climbing one of our fixed ladders at the job site, family is the centerpiece of why we do what we do. We will pay attention to your needs and provide solutions that meet your requirements. Contact us today to learn more about our non-penetrating roof railing systems.
Project Photos
)
)
)
)