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Portable Railing Systems: The Secret to Complete Rooftop Fall Protection

Do your workers regularly access, inspect, and maintain rooftop systems for your building? If so, proper rooftop fall protection is crucial. But with infrastructure limitations, hot work restrictions, and long lead times, building a proper fall protection system might feel difficult. 


Northern Platforms is here to help! With comprehensive modular access platforms in stock at our warehouse now, we can design, ship, and install a complete system within days. Plus, our guardrails are a great solution when you need a non-penetrating option. Keep reading to learn more about rooftop fall protection systems from the Northern Platforms team. 


The Challenge: Rooftop Falling Hazards

Rooftop HVAC units, mechanical equipment, and building systems often demand hours of regular maintenance. However, the truth is that servicing these systems regularly exposes workers to significant fall hazards. In fact, most Canadian provinces require fall protection systems for all work performed above 3 metres.


But here’s another roadblock: most passive fall protection solutions on the market require drilling into the roof, which isn’t permitted for many operations. Without temporary or non-penetrating options, workers face falling risks 24/7.

The Solution: Non-Penetrating Guardrails 

Does the above situation sound familiar? If so, Northern Platforms has the ideal solution for you: the YellowGate RS rooftop fall protection system. This freestanding, mobile, and modular system delivers the same fall protection as anchored systems while leaving your roof membrane completely intact. Some key features of this product include:

  • Non-penetrating, field-adjustable design featuring portable aluminum handrails
  • 42” (1067mm) tall, which meets OH&S compliance requirements
  • Lightweight and easy to assemble 
  • Corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain

Some common applications include:

  • Rooftop HVAC maintenance: Seasonal filter changes, refrigerant servicing, and control system checks all require safe rooftop access. Non-penetrating guardrails provide fall protection without compromising the roof membrane.
  • Building envelope work: Temporary protection during roof inspections, parapet wall repairs, and facade maintenance becomes safer with portable guardrails that move with the work.
  • Industrial facilities: Rooftop process equipment, ventilation systems, and utility infrastructure demand regular access. Chemical plants, manufacturing facilities, and food processing operations use non-penetrating guardrails without creating penetration risks. 

Other Rooftop Safety Products from Northern Platforms

Rooftop safety extends beyond guardrails. Northern Platforms supplies a complete range of modular access and fall protection solutions designed for rooftops and elevated work areas across Western Canada:

  • Modular Work Platforms: ErectaStep bolt-together platforms create safe elevated work surfaces for rooftop equipment access and maintenance. Configure platforms to fit your specific rooftop layout—no hot-work permits required.
  • Modular Stairs and Access: Pair modular work platforms with ErectaStep stairs for complete rooftop access systems.
  • Safety Gates and Swing Gates: YellowGate self-closing safety swing gates complement non-penetrating guardrail systems. Install at stairway landings, platform edges, or mezzanine openings for comprehensive fall protection. 

For more information about building a complete OH&S-compliant rooftop safety system, contact Northern Platforms today.

Why Choose Northern Platforms 

As an exclusive ErectaStep distributor for Western Canada, Northern Platforms is your go-to provider for modular work platforms, portable stairs, safety swing gates, and more. Here’s why you should choose us for your next rooftop safety project:

  • Modular platforms in stock now: We keep all elements of ErectaStep systems in stock at our Leduc warehouse, meaning we can have your order shipped to your site before the end of the week.
  • Rapid response time: Thanks to our in-stock inventory and central Alberta location, we offer project turnaround times that exceed expectations. For example, on a recent project, we quoted a project on Tuesday, shipped equipment on Wednesday, and the system was operational by Thursday.
  • One-stop shop: Keeping your facility safe and compliant can be difficult, especially if you are relying on multiple suppliers for multiple products. At Northern Platforms, we offer all the safety equipment you need under one roof. Count on us for rolling stairs, safety cages, mobile access units, safety swing gates, and more! 
  • Local expertise: We’ve been serving Western Canada since 2002 and have served countless industries. We’ll bring our expertise, insights, and high-quality service to every single call.


Interested in learning more about our work with modular access platforms? Read more about a recent project we completed: “ErectaStep Delivers Fast-Track Platform Solution for Pig Launching and Receiving Operations.”

Invest in Rooftop Safety Today

Ready to upgrade your rooftop safety? Contact Northern Platforms for a no-obligation consultation. Our specialists will assess your rooftop access needs, recommend optimal non-penetrating guardrail configurations, and provide transparent proposals for supply and installation. We bring decades of experience delivering modular access platforms and rooftop fall protection across Western Canada—ensuring your systems protect workers, preserve warranties, and perform reliably for years to come. Call us or request a quote through our website now!