Tips for Working on A Roof

COMMON ROOFTOP HAZARDS

1. Make sure your access points are secured

Many rooftop accidents and injuries occur while accessing the rooftop. Scaffolding, constructed work platforms or mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are the preferred means of temporary access and must be constructed appropriately and properly stabilised. Also proper training on ladder and climbing safety is an extremely important aspect of rooftop safety. Accidents can happen on the way up and on the way down, so always make sure you’re properly secured and taking the right steps, even when the day is over and you’re excited to get down and head home.

2. Take your time and tread carefully

The roof itself and how it is built can also present a hazard. Roofs may have variable heights, soft spots, cracks or loose material as well as pipes and vents that can all create tripping hazards or distractions. It is extremely important to take the time you need to slowly and safely travel while on a rooftop. Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and your footing is firm before actually shifting your weight.

3. Always be aware of the edge

When working on a rooftop, always keep the edge location in the back of your mind. Try to avoid the edge being out of your line of vision as much as possible, and when working in areas that block your view of the edge, be aware and proceed with extra caution. If you’re working in a darker environment, proper lighting must be used to provide a brightly lit workspace. Far too often workers approach the edge without realizing or assume the edge is much farther away than it actually is. 

4. Consider the weather

It’s important to keep in mind the current weather conditions as well. Ice, snow and wind are all things that can create unexpected hazards on a roof. Roof membranes are especially prone to becoming slippery in these weather conditions. Also on particularly sunny days be sure to wear sunglasses to prevent sun blindness.

5. Check the structure’s strength

In some cases, a roof can simply fail. This is a prominent issue if the worker needs to assess the roof to make repairs to it. To avoid injury or falling off the roof should it fail, workers should access the roof’s strength before stepping on it and should be trained on what to do in the event of a roof failure.