How long does it take to install the FlexLine system?
The simple modular design allows for rapid deployment. Durable galvanized components stay in place with a hidden set screw, making it possible to secure a large perimeter in a fraction of the time required for permanent railing.
Can this system be used in high-wind environments?
While the rubber bases provide significant stability, warning lines are lightweight by design. In extreme wind conditions, stanchions should be monitored. Because the flags are mesh, they allow some wind to pass through, reducing the “sail effect” and helping the system stay in place.
How easy is it to adjust the length of the FlexLine system?
The modular design includes stainless steel shackles and vinyl-coated cable, allowing for quick adjustments on-site. Systems are available in 10, 15, and 20-foot cable lengths, and multiple stanchions can be aligned to create a continuous boundary for any roof size.
Is the FlexLine system non-penetrating?
Yes, the FlexLine system is completely freestanding and utilizes bases made from recycled rubber. This design allows for a secure setup that does not require drilling into the roof membrane, which protects the structural integrity and warranty of the roof.
What happens if the warning line is placed too close to the roof edge?
If a warning line is placed less than 6 feet from the edge, it no longer meets OSHA compliance for roofing work. For non-roofing trades, such as HVAC or general maintenance, a warning line is often not considered sufficient protection at 6 feet, and a physical barrier like FlexGuard railing is usually required.
Does a warning line satisfy the requirement for a physical fall arrest system?
No, a warning line is strictly a visual warning system. It does not provide the physical strength required to stop a falling worker. If work must be performed outside the warning line (between the line and the edge), workers must be protected by a guardrail system, safety net, or personal fall arrest system.
When is a warning line permitted by OSHA as a form of fall protection?
Under OSHA 1926.501, warning lines are typically used during roofing work on low-slope roofs. They must be erected at least 6 feet from the leading edge. If mechanical equipment is being used, the line must be at least 10 feet from the edge that is perpendicular to the equipment’s direction of travel.
