When is edge protection required?

Edge protection is required wherever there is a risk of a person falling 2 metres or more, or where a fall from a lesser height could result in injury (e.g., onto sharp objects or into water). The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require collective protection (guard rails) before personal protection (harnesses).

What height should guard rails be?

Guard rails must be at least 950mm above the working platform (EN 13374 Class A). Toe boards must be at least 150mm high. An intermediate rail must be positioned so that no gap exceeds 470mm. This prevents people falling over, under, or through the protection.

What is the maximum post spacing?

Post spacing depends on the system, but 2.0m is standard for most proprietary edge protection. Some systems allow up to 2.4m. Posts must be secure - typically clamped to scaffold or fixed to the structure. Check the manufacturer's instructions for your specific system.

What are the EN 13374 classes?

Class A: for flat surfaces up to 10 degrees (standard guard rail). Class B: for surfaces up to 30 degrees (requires mesh or solid infill). Class C: for surfaces up to 45 degrees or steeper (requires energy-absorbing systems). Most construction edge protection is Class A or B.

Can I use scaffold boards as guard rails?

Scaffold boards can be used as toe boards but should not be the sole guard rail. Proprietary guard rail systems with steel or aluminium rails are preferred as they provide consistent strength. If using timber, it must be of adequate cross-section and properly secured.

TradeCalculator

Edge Protection Calculator

Calculate guard rail, toe board, and post quantities for edge protection

Edge Type

Perimeter Length

Post Spacing

How We Calculate This

Enter the perimeter length to be protected, desired post spacing (2.0m recommended), guard rail height (minimum 950mm), and toe board height (minimum 150mm). The calculator determines the number of posts required (including corners), guard rail sections, intermediate rails, and toe boards. It checks compliance against EN 13374 and Work at Height Regulations 2005.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.