Master Specification

Project notes: Post size ______ mm · Rail size ______ mm · Post spacing ______ mm · Resin ______ · Color ______ · Mounting ______ (concrete/steel) · Toe board ______ · Infill ______ · Code ______.

PART 1 — GENERAL

1.1 Related Sections

Division 01 provisions apply. Related: Section 05 52 13 (FRP grating), Section 14 22 00 (FRP ladders), Division 26 (where dielectric isolation is specified).

1.2 Summary

Specifies FRP guardrail and handrail systems — posts, top and mid rails, fittings, infill panels and baseplates — for platforms, stairs and edges in corrosive, marine or electrical environments.

1.3 System Description

Provide handrail/guardrail to comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.28 and applicable building code: top rail height 1015–1120 mm (42 in) above walking surface; midrail; toe board where required; system resists a 890 N (200 lbf) top-rail load and a 730 N/m (50 plf) distributed load without exceeding code deflection. Use FRP where corrosion, weight or non-conductivity is required.

1.4 Submittals

Submit product data, post/rail section sizes, baseplate anchorage detail, load certification, COA and samples for color/fitting approval.

PART 2 — PRODUCTS (MATERIALS)

2.1 Posts & Rails

Pultruded FRP rectangular or round tube: posts typically 50 × 50 mm or 60 × 60 mm; top/mid rails typically 40 × 40 mm or round Ø 40–50 mm. Glass content ~70%; resin: isophthalic for general, vinyl ester for corrosive, phenolic for fire/low-smoke duty.

2.2 Fittings

Molded FRP elbows, tees, couplers and baseplates, mechanically fastened or bonded with compatible resin/adhesive. Stainless A4/316 fasteners and anchor bolts; FRP non-metallic fasteners where electrical isolation is required.

2.3 Infill & Toe Boards

Where infill is required, use FRP grating panel or FRP plate; toe board 100–150 mm high (FRP plate or angle) where objects could roll off.

PART 3 — EXECUTION (INSTALLATION)

3.1 Examination

Verify substrate and anchorage; confirm post spacing per design (typically 1500–2400 mm). Do not install on unsound concrete or steelwork.

3.2 Installation

Set posts plumb and anchored to baseplates; bolt or bond fittings per manufacturer detail; set top rail at code height; level rails between posts. Allow for thermal movement at long runs; use slotted connections. Do not overtighten FRP fittings.

3.3 Field Modification

Cut tubes with carbide saw; deburr and seal cut ends; re-seat and re-check fittings after cutting; do not notch rails.

PART 4 — QUALITY

Manufacture under ISO 9001:2015. Verify: post/rail sections match submittal; Barcol ≥ 35; fittings fully seated and fastened; posts plumb within 3 mm/m; top rail height within code; system load-tested or certified to 890 N point / 730 N/m distributed. Reject cracked tubes, loose fittings and missing fasteners. Inspect after thermal cycling (re-check torque).