Guardrail System Testing and Compliance

UK-wide Guardrail Testing, Inspection, and Recertification

Sky Height Safety provides expert testing and compliance services for guardrail systems, ensuring your building remains safe, compliant, and fully protected against height-related risks. Our edge protection solutions are designed to meet HSE standards, with collective protection systems that ensure safety at height through nationwide installation, competitive pricing, and expert maintenance.

From facilities managers and building owners to safety officers and contractors, we work with businesses across the UK to safeguard employees and maintain legal compliance.

What We Test For

Our comprehensive inspections cover every aspect of your guardrail system to ensure continued safety and compliance:

• Damage to Critical Components: Identifying dents, bends, or cracks that weaken the system’s performance

• Dislodged or Damaged Weights: Ensuring counterbalance systems remain properly positioned and secure

• Loose or Missing Components: Inspecting bolts, screws, and fixings to prevent system failure

• Movement: Checking for any displacement or instability that may compromise structural integrity

• Rust: Detecting corrosion that may impact strength and durability over time

• General Wear and Tear: Reviewing signs of ageing, exposure, and usage that could compromise safety

• Vandalism: Assessing for intentional damage that could reduce effectiveness or create hazards

The Importance of Guardrail Testing Inspection

Regular testing and inspection are essential to protect both people and businesses.

Safety Assurance

Compliance

Building owners and managers must meet HSE requirements, BS EN 13374, and other standards to stay legally compliant.

Inspections highlight problems early, avoiding costly repairs, accidents, or enforcement action.

Compliance

Guardrails are often the last line of defence against falls from height. Regular checks guarantee that your systems remain dependable.

Guardrail Certification and Recertification

Certification is more than a legal requirement – it’s proof your systems can withstand daily use and environmental stress. Without regular recertification, businesses risk non-compliance, fines, and potential liability in the event of an accident.

To remain compliant with UK regulations and ensure ongoing safety, guardrails must be tested and recertified at least every 12 months, or more frequently if exposed to harsh environments.

Sky Height Safety provides full documentation with photographic evidence and certifies each system through a competent person in line with legislation, ensuring your systems are always up to date, compliant, and ready to protect your workforce.

Maintenance of Guardrail Systems

Ongoing maintenance ensures your guardrails provide reliable protection year after year. At Sky Height Safety, our maintenance service covers everything from tightening fixings and replacing worn parts to restoring coatings and preventing corrosion. This proactive approach always keeps your systems fully operational and compliant.

Guardrails We Test, Inspect and Recertify

Our technicians are experienced with a wide range of guardrail and edge protections systems, including:

• Freestanding Guardrails: Non-penetrative systems using weighted bases, ideal for roofs with waterproof membranes

• Collapsible Guardrails: Fold-down systems designed to preserve building aesthetics when not in use.

• Fixed Guardrails: Permanently attached systems offering long-term safety

Why Choose Our Guardrail Testing Services?

At Sky Height Safety, we provide the expertise and peace of mind that safety managers need with comprehensive testing solutions that go beyond the basics. Our inspections deliver complete compliance assurance, helping you meet BS EN 13374 and other safety regulations without guesswork. Every system is tested by a competent person, giving you legal protection and trust in the results.

We cover all types of systems from freestanding to permanent guardrails, and provide detailed documentation with photographic evidence and full reports for a complete audit trail. By identifying potential issues early, we ensure zero compromises on safety, protecting both people and businesses from accidents or costly violations.

What Makes Us Different?

Our specialised expertise sets us apart from generic inspection services, delivering real-world safety solutions that work.

Industry-Leading Standards

Comprehensive System Coverage

From temporary edge protection to permanent collective protection systems.

Prevent falls, protect workers, and eliminate costly compliance violations.

Proven Safety Results

We exceed BS EN 13374, EN ISO 14122-3:2016, and PUWER 1998 requirements.

How Sky Height Safety Can Help You?

Sky Height Safety offers a full-service approach to guardrail safety, from installation and testing to nationwide maintenance.

• Competitive Pricing: Transparent pricing with no hidden costs, plus a price-matched guarantee on like-for-like quotes

• Guardrails & Handrails: Collective protection systems that meet HSE standards, installed and maintained by experts

• Expert Assistance: Our team provides free consultations services with tailored recommendations to ensure you choose the right solutions

• Testing and Maintenance: Annual inspections and 12-month recertification to keep your systems safe and compliant

• Nationwide Service: Wherever you’re located, our technicians provide efficient, professional support

Frequently asked questions

How often do I need guardrail recertification?

Guardrails must be inspected and recertified at least every 12 months to meet UK safety regulations. We provide full documentation with photographic evidence, and each system is certified by a competent person to ensure compliance.

What regulations apply to guardrail systems in the UK?

Guardrail systems must meet the requirements of BS EN 13374, EN ISO 14122-3:2016, and PUWER 1998. Regular testing ensures compliance with these standards and with HSE workplace safety requirements.

Who is responsible for arranging guardrail inspections?

Building owners, facilities managers, or duty holders are legally responsible for ensuring that guardrail systems are inspected, tested, and certified. Failing to do so could result in liability if an accident occurs.

What happens if my guardrail fails inspection?

If a fault or compliance issue is found, we’ll provide a detailed report with photographic evidence and recommendations for repair or replacement. Our team can also carry out the required maintenance to bring the system back up to standard.

Do freestanding guardrails require testing?

Yes. Even though freestanding systems are not fixed into the roof structure, they must still be tested for stability, weight positioning, and wear. We inspect all types of guardrail systems, including fixed, freestanding, collapsible, and parapet.

How long does a guardrail inspection take?

The time required depends on the size of the site and the type of system installed. Most inspections can be completed within a single visit, and we provide certification promptly afterwards.