Roofing-related deaths and injuries are not uncommon in the profession. Despite advancements in roofing safety technology, these are still challenges that have long-term consequences for workers and families in the roofing sector.
How can you assist your employees in reducing their chances of becoming statistics?
Now is the time to upgrade your roof safety measures. It’s not only about avoiding danger, expenses, and lawsuits. It’s all about valuing your employees’ lives and safeguarding them and their families.
So, what is the greatest option for your group?
Depending on the sort of roof you’re working on, the roofing safety system you utilize may differ–steep slope safety standards may differ from low slope requirements. This article discusses three roofing safety methods and the types of roofs on which they may be used to keep you and your team safe at all times.
Safety netting for roofs
Roofing safety nets are a sort of fall arrest system, which means they catch workers if they slip and fall. When operating at a height of more than 25 feet or when none of the following is available, OSHA requires the use of safety nets.
- Safety lines
- Safety belts
- Ladders
- Scaffolds
- Catch platforms
- Temporary flooring
Roof safety nets must be tested prior to the start of the project. They must extend 8 feet beyond the work area’s border and be less than 26 feet below it. In addition, there are criteria for mesh size and impact resistance.
Fall-prevention systems
On both low- and steep-slope roofs, fall arrest devices are employed. They are the roof safety system that most home roofers select. A fall arrest system uses an anchor, a harness, and a lanyard to safeguard the roofer from falling off the roof.
Roofing safety railings
Roofing guardrail systems can be used on both low- and steep-slope roofs to prevent falls. These are absolutely worth keeping on hand, whether you perform commercial or residential roofing.
Commercial and residential guardrail systems both serve the same purpose, however residential guardrails contain toe boards to prevent tools from slipping through the crevices and falling off the roof.
Roofing guardrails are required around hatches on commercial construction sites and are frequently utilized around the building’s perimeter.
An anchor is often affixed to a rafter where a roofer’s lanyard is linked to its ring for this sort of roof safety device. (Mobile anchors, which act similarly to stationary anchors, are also an option.) The roofer’s harness is fastened to the other end of the lanyard. This allows the roofer to retain a wide range of motion during tear-off and production while remaining safe on the roof.