Protecting Lives at Height Starts with Knowledge

Working at heights is part of daily life for thousands across Western Canada. Whether you’re on a rooftop in Vancouver, a rig in Fort McMurray, or a maintenance platform in Winnipeg—height safety isn’t optional. It’s essential.

In this guide, we break down the fundamentals of fall protection systems, why they matter, and how Canadian workplaces can take informed steps toward a safer jobsite.

What Is Fall Protection and Why Does It Matter?

Fall protection refers to the systems and procedures that prevent or arrest falls in the workplace. In Canada, Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) regulations and CSA Z259 standards mandate fall protection when workers are at:

1. 3 metres (10 feet) or higher in general industry
   
2. 1.2 metres (4 feet) near a hazardous area
   
3. Any height where a risk of injury exists (e.g., sharp equipment, open hatches, moving vehicles)

A fall protection system ensures workers are:

• Prevented from falling (passive)
  
• Stopped safely if they fall (active)
  

We help our clients implement both— engineered to the structure, use case, and regional safety standards.

Understanding the Systems: Active vs Passive

Passive Fall Protection (Fall Prevention Systems)

These are built-in safety features—no special training or interaction needed:

• Guardrails
  
• Skylight screens
  
• Roof hatch barriers
  
• Walkways & crossover platforms
  
  

Best for: Rooftops, commercial facilities, long-term installations.

Active Fall Protection (Fall Restraint & Arrest)

These systems require worker engagement (harnesses, anchors, lifelines) and must be used with training:

• Fall restraint systems prevent reaching an edge
  
• Fall arrest systems stop a fall once it occurs
  
  

Best for: Construction, industrial maintenance, energy sectors

Fall Protection Systems by Type

Guardrails

Quick-to-install, non-penetrating options available. Ideal for commercial rooftops, mechanical service areas, and temporary worksites.

Access Platforms

Permanent or modular systems (walkways, catwalks, crossover bridges) to keep teams secure as they move through elevated workspaces.

Cable-Based Lifelines

Horizontal or vertical systems offering continuous tie-off. Flexible for crane rails, rooftops, and rigging applications.

Rigid Rail Systems

Excellent for short-fall arrest in high-risk applications like rail yards, transportation bays, or aircraft maintenance.

Skylight & Hatch Kits

OSHA considers these rooftop features as “open holes.” We install barrier kits to eliminate risks. Installing a skylight railing on your roof ensures optimum safety for workers who need to visit the roof.

 Portable Fall Protection

Fully mobile ladders, stairs, and anchor systems. Ideal for seasonal or shifting job sites.

Choosing the Right System

We guide your decision based on:

• Fall clearance requirements
  

• Worker movement (static vs mobile tasks)
  

• Frequency of work at height
  

• Permanence of the system
  

• Budget and maintenance needs
  
  

Western Canada’s Trusted Partner in Height Safety

Height Works Ltd. proudly serves Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba with:

• Fall protection system design
  

• Inspection & recertification
  

• Safety audits
  

• Site-specific consultation
  

• CSA-compliant installation and servicing
  
  

We’re not just a supplier—we’re your partner in risk mitigation.

Let’s Build a Safer Workplace Together

Whether your site requires custom-engineered guardrails, lifeline systems, or a comprehensive safety audit, we’re ready to support your goals.

Call 1-877-361-2565 or visit HeightWorks.ca

Proudly Western Canadian. Certified. Committed.