The JL Industries RSHWC is a safety railing that guards the opening left by a roof hatch, made in the USA. It is the patented compression series, and it is the one to use on an existing hatch: it mounts on the curb counterflashing without penetrating the curb, and its width, length and height all adjust, so it fits hatches from other manufacturers as well as ours. Each kit ships with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Order the size that matches your hatch.
Specifications
| Model | RSHWC series, compression mount |
| Mounting | Compression mount on the curb counterflashing; does not penetrate the curb |
| Adjustability | Width, length and height adjustable, fits other manufacturers' hatches |
| Gate | Self-closing, self-latching, telescoping |
| Rail height | Bolt holes set the top rail 42 in above the walking surface, the height required by OSHA 1910.29(b)(1) and 2024 IBC 1015.3 |
| Material | 1-5/8 in x 0.065 in (16 ga) galvanized steel tubing |
| Finish | Safety yellow powder coat |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Sizes
| Fits hatch | Model | Weight |
| 36 x 30 in | RSHWC-1LY | 88 lb |
| 36 x 36 in | RSHWC-4LY | 91 lb |
| 48 x 48 in | RSHWC-5LY | 103 lb |
Stair-access sizes for the 30 x 54 in and 30 x 96 in hatches are factory orders; ask us for a quote.
Why the opening needs guarding
Under 29 CFR 1910.28(b)(3)(iv), an employee has to be protected from falling into a ladderway hole by a guardrail system with toeboards on the exposed sides, and the entrance to the hole needs a self-closing gate or an offset. The guardrail criteria are in 1910.29. That is the general-industry rule covering operations and maintenance; construction, alteration and repair work is covered instead by 1926 Subpart M, including when it happens inside an existing building. Confirm the final gate or offset configuration with your AHJ before ordering.
Documents and downloads
For specification and installation: the manufacturer's RSHWC safety railing submittal (PDF). Need a project-specific submittal filled out? Send us the project details with a quote request.