Trailing cables are one of the most common trip hazards in UK workplaces and events. Cable protectors — also called cable ramps or cable covers — route cables safely across floors, walkways, and vehicle routes. Here's how to choose the right one.
Types of Cable Protector
| Type | Channels | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Light-Duty | 1–3 channels | Offices, exhibitions, retail |
| Medium-Duty | 2–5 channels | Outdoor events, car parks |
| Heavy-Duty | 3–5 channels | Warehouses, loading bays, HGV routes |
Choosing by Application
Office/Exhibition: Lightweight rubber or PVC covers with 1–2 channels. Low-profile to avoid trip hazards. Often with a hi-vis yellow lid.
Outdoor Events: Weather-resistant, interlocking sections. Must handle foot traffic and potentially light vehicle traffic (golf buggies, small vans). Anti-slip surface essential.
Industrial/Warehouse: Heavy-duty rubber or polyurethane ramps rated for forklift and HGV traffic. Multiple channels for power and data cables.
Key Specifications
Channel size: Measure your largest cable diameter and add 20% clearance. Standard channels range from 20mm to 50mm diameter.
Load rating: Light-duty (pedestrian only), medium-duty (cars/vans up to 3.5T), heavy-duty (HGVs/forklifts up to 40T+).
Length: Most cable protectors come in 900mm–1000mm sections that interlock end-to-end. Measure your run and round up.
Health and Safety Requirements
Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, employers must ensure floors are free from trip hazards. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 requires risk assessments covering cable management.
For events, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a duty of care on organisers to protect attendees from trip hazards. Cable protectors are the standard solution specified by most venue insurers.
Shop Cable Protectors
Light, medium and heavy-duty cable protectors. Interlocking sections. Same-day dispatch. Free delivery.
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