Void Protection vs Edge Protection: What’s the Difference – When it comes to construction on any site, having safety systems has become the first step that every worker asks for. As you know, the site is physically available, but it always comes with dangerous and hidden risks, like falling from the roof, slipping from the corner, and many more. A single step in height construction can lead to injury and many more losses. That’s why it is necessary to have the protection barriers and systems that prevent the workers and site inspectors from injury.
This is where Void protection & edge protection come in. These two protection systems are specially designed for use in construction sites, but using methods of void protection and edge protection are different. If you are also interested in knowing about the difference between void protection and edge protection, then keep reading this blog.
Overview of Void Protections
Void Protection platforms refer to those safety systems that protect people from falling into holes, gaps, or open floors or roofs. It includes: Stairwells, skylights, floor apertures, and roof openings.
Benefits of Void Protection Platforms
Void protection platforms offer multiple features, such as:
Cover Open Spaces: These platforms cover the open spaces within the sites. It provides a safe and effective platform to work without having falling risk. It also protects material from falling into the voids.
Multi-Purpose Use: Many void protection products are suitable for multipurpose use, as we can use them any time and anywhere. This type of platform is good for residential purposes.
Compliance: All the void protection platforms always meet some safety regulatory standards; without this, no platforms can work or be used in the industry.
Applications of Void Platforms
Void platforms are majorly applicable for:
- Stairwell voids
- Opening for lifts
- Service shafts
- Large penetration in slabs
- Balcony safety
- Multi-trade access
- Residential & commercial construction
- Renovation & refurbishment Pro
Understand Edge Protection
Edge protection platforms refer to those permanent or temporary barrier protection systems, like guardrails and toe boards. Additionally, working near the edges of the roof or any area, edge protection systems also work for it. Having an edge protection system is one of the major requirements under OHS that needs to be maintained by every construction site.
How is Edge Protection important for Safety?
For workers a safety barriers are important to install, and this is where edge protection platforms come in. It plays an important role in safety. Let’s see how:
Prevent Falls from Heights: Edge protection platforms prevent falls of any individual from heights while constructing any building. By installing these barriers, workers are physically protected and can confidently give all attention to work.
Protect Material & Site Visitors: Not only workers, but tools and materials can also fall from the heights, which can also be a costly purchase for us. That’s why edge protection barriers allow material and visitor protection.
Safety First Approach: Edge protection barrier platforms also promote the safety-first culture. As in Brisbane, safety is always a priority that should be done before starting any construction or height works; that is why edge protection platforms matter.
Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Edge protection systems also play an important role because when it comes to construction in Brisbane, having protection systems on site is mandatory as per the authority, where edge protection is always in compliance with safety and regulation.
What are the Applications of Edge Protection Systems?
Edge protection barriers and systems are applicable in:
- Construction sites
- Roof work
- Industrial facilities
- Infrastructure projects
- Void & Stairwell protections
- Residential and commercial projects
- Maintenance & renovation works
What’s Different between Void Protection vs Edge Protection?
Let’s have a look at the differences between void protection & edge protection systems:
| Features | Void Protection | Edge Protection |
| Purpose | Prevents falls from within voids like stairwells, shafts, or floor openings. | Prevents falls from edges such as roofs, balconies, or slab edges. |
| Installation Area | Inside the building structure. | On external perimeters of buildings, roofs, and scaffolds. |
| Design | Covers the opening with mesh panels, timber decks, or engineered flooring. | Guardrails, posts, and toe boards create a barrier. |
| Construction Stage | Installed during framing, slab work, or before stairs/floors are fitted. | Installed during roofing, slab edge, or balcony construction. |
| Load Capacity | Often load-bearing; can double as a working platform. | Only a barrier, not for loads. |
Why Are Both Protection Systems Important?
Whether it’s a void protection or edge protection, both protectors play an important role; let’s see how:
Void Protection: It ensures the safety of workers inside the building and covers the internal gaps.
Edge Protection: It ensures the protection of outside or open spaces and the rooftops of buildings.
Under Compliance & Regulations
Both of the barrier protection platforms are essential for regulatory compliance and regulations. Some safety authorities, such as:
- OSHA (USA)
- WHS (Australia)
- HSE (UK) and more.
Before starting any construction, the government has made it important to install.
What Benefits can you get from Protection Platforms?
From void and edge protection platforms, you can get multiple benefits as a worker or employee. Let’s see:
For Workers
- Increase confidence while working
- Safer movements across the site
- Protection from falling tools
- Better mental & physical health
For Employers
- Better regulatory compliance
- Lower accident rates
- Enhance reputation & Trust
- Cost savings in the long run
- Collective protection across the site
What Considerations Can Help You to Get the Best Void & Edge Protection Platforms?
If you are also planning to install the void and edge protection platforms, then choosing the right one is important. This detailed guide will now show you some tips to choose the best void & edge protection platforms:
- Firstly, assess your site safety needs
- Check compliance with safety standards
- Choose only high-quality safety material
- Flexible & easy installation
- Good strength & load capacity
- Portability & storage
- Supplier reputation & support
FAQ about the Difference between Void Protection vs Edge Protection
Q. Can we use void platforms in the replacement of edge platforms?
Answer: No, both platforms are different, and no one can replace the other. A void protects inner safety, whereas Edge platforms protect workers from edges and open spaces.
Q. Which platform is more costly?
Answer: As it is not possible to compare the costs of both platforms because both have their own specific needs like space, quantity, height, and many more.
Q. Do the installation methods of both platforms also differ from each other?
Answer: Yes, both platforms have their own installation method. Void platforms are installed within the frames to cleverly fill floor gaps, whereas Edge platforms are installed vertically to floor slabs.
Q. Can we use both platforms at one time on one site?
Answer: Yes, in many large construction sites, both protection platforms are used. The installation of both depends on the need pof the double safety or one is efficient for them.