GUIDANCE NOTES

GUIDE TO
CHAMBER FALL PROTECTION

Introduction

Health and Safety design features are now a key element of fabricated access covers.
When operators need protecting against falls from height these can be classified as
external and internal fall protection systems.

External fall protection

Fixed Barrier System

Normally positioned around the perimeter of the access cover(s) and frame. The
system usually comprises of 2 or more tubular handrails which pass through upright
posts mechanically fixed to the ground. A hinged gate can be incorporated to gain
access to the cover. When designing for this system the designer needs to ensure that
there is sufficient clearance between the cover(s) and the handrail when the cover(s)
are in the open position. The standard BSEN:14122 is a useful standard for the design
requirements.

Demountable Barrier System

This is a fully removable system and erected when access to the chamber is required.
This type of system is normally integral to the cover and frame and designers need to
be made aware of sufficient rebate areas when applicable.

The system normally comprises of separate upright posts which sit into frame
mounted sockets. The barriers either fix into the posts using a clip system or a
male/female jointing system.

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 Chamber Protection

Internal fall Protection

Safety Grid

There are several types of safety grids available these being drop in / slide out or fully
hinged that can lock into the open position. Other hinged type grids can be designed
around equipment being lifted from the chamber that open and close with the removal
of below ground equipment.
BS 9124 and the FACTA specification state as a minimum;
• Shall withstand a 140kg weight applied over an area of 300mm x 200mm dropped
from a height of 2m
• The gaps between the bars shall prevent a 100mm diameter sphere passing
through them
• Hinged grid designs shall have a maximum exertion force of 250N when being
lifted from the rest position to the vertical position.
Designers of access chambers that are looking to use fabricated access covers with
safety grids should be mindful that the grids can sit below the bottom level of the frame
and project into the chamber opening and could potentially cause a clash with below
ground equipment. Finally, a safety grids function is to prevent a fall from height and
not to act as a working platform.

Working Platforms

Working platforms will have additional design features to meet the specified safe
working load. FACTA members are fully conversant with these requirements and
should be contacted for consultation.

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