[UPDATE 6.4.21]
Got around to placing clear lexan shields around the edges. I love the look and the sense of security that I now have (mostly for the HO) especially when I'm doing anything up there. Came across these lexan pieces by accident on an internet search. They're actually corner guards meant for walls and I repurposed them. Got them from Koffler Sales Company www.kofflersales.com in the Chicagoland area. Was able to order the guards with custom cut sizes and pre-drilled so that all of that elbow grease that I had to do in the past doing those two tasks were taken care of. I will definitely use get some more of these for my main layout and the holiday layout.
Here are some before photos:
Here are some photos after the install: