Safety at the Edge: Enhancing Protection with Gael Form's Edge Guard System
March 31st, 2025
Working at heights is a routine yet hazardous task that is seen across almost all construction sites. Multi-storey buildings and elevated platforms demand that safety isn’t just a tick the box exercise. Edge protection systems act as a critical frontline defense for workers operating near drop-offs, not just from a physical standpoint but also a psychological one too. Falls from heights remain one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. To prevent such accidents, edge guard systems are commonly seen as non-negotiable for teams.
The importance of edge protection is really made evident when looking at the sheer volume of activity that happens around unguarded perimeters such as pouring slabs, moving material and transporting tools. A well designed system allows for all these workflows to be done smoothly and at pace, by reducing inherent risk from the environment around them. It is also an important factor from a regulatory standpoint as it is an area of the construction site that has become stricter with the do’s and don'ts over the years.
Gael Form’s Edge Guard Protection System is purposely designed and built to meet the posed challenges that are involved. Our panels are 2.6 metres in length to cover larger sections, this is so the installation times can be reduced but also to reduce weak points caused by excess joins. Gael Form simultaneously understands that the size of the panels does not matter if they aren’t durable, which is why they are galvanized along with also being powder-coated. This dual finish is important for construction teams as it means their systems can withstand rust and wear and won’t need constant replacements. To top it off, literally, our edge protection panels have an integrated 250mm toe board, which plays a critical role in preventing debris or tools slipping through and falling. An important feature that elevates the system’s safety.
For teams, as the projects evolve so do the requirements. Flexibility is a common feature across all Gael Form product’s and our edge protection is no exception. An example of how this has been implemented, is the ability to extend the height of the panels to 1.85 metres. This is an important feature as your edge guard system is now compatible across phases such as when you may move from pre-slab to post-slab pour.
A twin latch mechanism allowing for secure locking of the panels in place ensures their stability as you make these height adjustments to suit the team’s needs mentioned above. Correct deployment is critical for edge protection systems to serve their function as there is potential for weaknesses and safety risks to creep in. Gael Form offers three clamping systems setups, Socket Base, Aluminium Beam Clamp and Timber H20 Beam Clamp. This adaptability to the various different deck types and structures that teams may be working with, means there is less need for workarounds on site and therefore improve strength and safety with the fit. Our edge guard systems are tested and certified to meet the European safety regulations, such as the EN 13374 Class A standard.
To wrap up all the points above, it is clear that in an industry where safety can’t be compromised, Gael Form’s edge protection is delivering a crucial solution for teams across all different types of construction. It is a system designed with precision and performance in mind, and perfect for teams that do not accept compromises and require a product that quite literally has your back. For more information, contact info@gaelform.com