Access Hatch, Maintenance Hole & Utility Access Point Safety Systems
Safety Systems for Protecting Workers and Contractors
OSHA-compliant systems for protecting workers and contractors from access hatch, maintenance hole, and utility access point openings
Whether you call them access hatches, manhole covers, or utility openings—OSHA calls them holes. Under 1926.501(b)(4), any open or exposed hatch is classified as a fall hazard and must be guarded.
W.W. Cannon offers fully OSHA-compliant hatch guarding systems to protect workers from accidental falls during rooftop or utility access.
Access Hatch, Maintenance Hole & Utility Access Point Safety Systems
Roof Hatch Fall Protection Solutions
OSHA considers rooftop hatches fall hazards that must be secured. Our systems meet or exceed OSHA 1926.502(b)(11) and 1926.502(b)(13) for hole guarding and gate requirements.
Option 1: Non-Penetrating Hatch Guard
- Compression-fit design prevents roof damage or leaks
- Fits a wide range of hatch sizes — no precise measuring required
- Includes a 3-sided guardrail and spring-loaded self-closing gate
- Gate closes automatically to eliminate exposure risk
Option 2: Bolt-Down Hatch Guard with Accessories
- Anchors to roof via base flange
- Available in five size options
- Add-on options:
Roof hatch guardrail (compatible with most hatches)
Hatch hoist system for safe rooftop material lifting
Maintenance Hole Fall Protection Systems
Marking a hazard isn’t enough. OSHA requires that maintenance hole openings be physically guarded—classified as holes under 1926.501(b)(4).
W.W. Cannon provides OSHA-compliant fall prevention systems for ground-level maintenance holes, going far beyond cones or signage. Our solutions are third-party certified to meet OSHA 1926.502(b)(11) and 1926.502(b)(13) standards.
Fast, Compliant Protection for Ground-Level Openings
Protect workers near manholes, vaults, and utility access points with our quick-deploy systems:
- Two Model Options:
✔ 5′ Swing Gate — for construction environments
✔ Self-Closing Gate — for general industry - Quick Setup:
No tools required. Just place bases, drop in rails, pin, and go—OSHA compliance in under 10 minutes.
Product Specs at a Glance
- Fits round holes from 22″ to 49″
- Fits square holes from 22″ to 40″
- 42″ safety yellow rails with high-visibility reflective striping
- Optional anchoring to ground surface (user-provided)
- Durable for both short-term and long-term use
Trench Edge Fall Protection for Utility Access Work
Trench boxes protect workers below ground—but what about those working at the edge?
W.W. Cannon’s trench box clamp and railing system offers above-ground fall prevention that meets OSHA 1926.502(b) standards. It’s the fast, heavy-duty solution for keeping workers safe at the trench edge.
Fast Setup. Serious Protection.
- Tool-Free Clamp Install:
One person can install the clamp in minutes—fits trench boxes 1″ to 9″ thick - Heavy-Duty Tensioner Screw:
Tighten by hand or use a speed wrench for faster install
Torque to 90 ft-lbs for OSHA-compliant hold - Custom Railing Options:
Choose from a variety of adjustable rail lengths to suit your site layout - Built to Last:
✔ Zinc-plated heavy-gauge steel
✔ Wide compatibility across trench box sizes
Want details? Review our specs in the Product Documents section
Need help? Contact W.W. Cannon for quotes or installation guidance
Product Documents
Preferred Suppliers
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Schedule Your Consultation with Our Experts
W.W. Cannon’s Turnkey Service Solutions result in a strong return on your investment. Get in touch with one of our specialists today for a complimentary consultation. We’ll answer any questions you have and help you plan your next steps.