Guardrail
A rail is a longitudinal bar that can sit on uprights or can be attached to another structural component such as a wall. A guardrail is a longitudinal barrier that prevents people from falling or straying into a dangerous or restricted zone. Guardrails are typically made from metal, timber, or materials such as PVC.
Guardrails can be found in locations such as:
- On a balcony.
- On building sites.
- On the edge of a pavement to prevent pedestrians crossing roads at dangerous points.
- On the edge of a ramp.
- On a landing.
- On ships.
- Around potentially dangerous machinery.
- Along a hiking trail to prevent falls.
Guardrails typically have ergonomic dimensions, with the top rail around 107cms (+/- 8cms) above ground level.
NB According to Approved Document K, Protection from falling, collision and impact, guarding is ‘…a barrier that denies pedestrians or vehicles access to another area, for example the floor below’. Where a barrier is ‘…a structure – either a raised rail or a solid wall – that denies access to another area.' For more information see: Guarding
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
The Building Safety Regulator announces a call for evidence.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
ECA's reflections on Party Conference season
Burnham wants to be confident of winning before asking for a fresh mandate.
New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser
Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University.
Building safety levy for England
CIAT publish estimator tool for members.