Safety

Ensuring the safety of both the roofing crew and those on the ground beneath when your home transforms into a roofing contractor's workspace should be a paramount concern. Roofing, being one of the most perilous occupations, demands unwavering attention to safety, irrespective of the skill or experience level of the roofers. Neglecting safety requirements can result in severe injuries and, in extreme cases, fatalities.

It is imperative to engage a roofing contractor dedicated to prioritizing the safety of their workforce and your property. With that in mind, what safety measures are essential for roofing, and what equipment should a roofer utilize?

OSHA succinctly outlines its roofing safety guidelines as "Plan, Provide, and Train."

PLAN Ahead for a Secure Job Execution

Safety considerations should be integral to every roofing project. Roofing contractors must thoroughly familiarize themselves with the job site before commencing work. This involves identifying potential safety hazards in and around the home, including the existing roof. The contractor must assess the structural capacity of the roof to support the workers.

Adherence to appropriate standards for the roof's pitch, whether steep or low slope, is crucial. The project-specific safety plan should encompass both the roofing crews and individuals on the ground.

PROVIDE the Appropriate Equipment

A roofing contractor must furnish fall protection and the correct tools for the job. Any workplace elevated six feet or more exposes roofing crews to the risk of serious injury or fatality in the event of a fall. Consequently, roofing contractors must select suitable fall protection equipment to ensure the safety of workers.

Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS): Comprising a harness, anchor, deceleration device, and lifeline/lanyard, a PFAS is designed to arrest a fall and prevent the worker from impacting the lower level. Proper attachment of each component is essential for effectiveness.

Guardrail Systems: Installed 35 to 49 inches above the working or walking surface, these systems safeguard roofers from fall hazards around openings and perimeters. The guardrail must withstand a 200-pound force within 2 inches of the top edge in any outward or downward direction.

Safety-Net Systems: Suspended below skylights and roof openings, these webbed or mesh systems aim to catch a falling worker. They should be at least 30 feet above the working or walking surface and capable of supporting twice the worker's weight.

Ladders: Stepladders and extension ladders are indispensable for roofing tasks, but proper usage is crucial. Ladders should be placed on level, rigid surfaces and set at a safe angle to prevent slipping or shifting. Avoiding high-traffic areas is also essential.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Common PPE for roofers includes hard hats, work boots, safety glasses, high-visibility vests, work gloves, hearing protection, toe protection, and appropriate clothing.

TRAIN Workers in Equipment Usage

Beyond providing the right equipment, a reputable roofing contractor should conduct regular safety training for workers. Fall protection is a mandatory OSHA training requirement for roofers.

Crew members should receive training on the safe operation of equipment used on the job, as well as instruction on inspecting and maintaining a job site and identifying potential hazards. Regular refresher courses and retraining as needed are essential.

Atlantic Roofing places the safety of its workers and clients at the forefront. From initial project planning to cleanup, we prioritize safety in every aspect of our work. Contact us today to discover more about our unwavering commitment to roofing safety.