Tips To Make Roof Access Safer For Your Employees
Working at height poses an extremely high risk for even the most skilled worker. One slip could cause serious injury or death. Employer/property managers, it’s your job to make sure employees/trades have access to safe roofs every time. The correct fall protection systems are essential to ensure edge protection for safety of your workers. You should use a compliant roof access hatch as well as compliant rooftop ladders, fall arrest devices, and guardrails. These are just a few of the tips that you need to keep fall hazards at bay. Let’s get to the point.
1. Correctly Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Correct PPE is the first step in protecting workers who work on roofs. Without proper protection, soldiers cannot go to war without it. You shouldn’t let your workers scale roofs in the absence of protective gear. Always ensure your workers are wearing the correct gear for the job.
Harnesses: You don’t want to risk your workers’ safety by using low-quality harnesses. You should buy high-quality harnesses for your employees that are comfortable, adjustable, and functional.
Lanyards: Find the right lanyard according to your task. If your workers need to work from a higher platform, consider using a retractable version of the lanyard.
It is important to always inspect the PPE to ensure it works at maximum efficiency. It could make all the difference in your life. The user must be familiar with how to use the equipment.
2. Use The Correct Equipment
For the job, make sure to use the proper fall protection system. Consider whether the task is one-off or ongoing. Below are some options.
Roof ladder: A roof accessibility hatch provides workers with safe access to a rooftop. Construction companies need to choose a strong, durable, and extremely secure roof access hatch. Not always the best option.
Roof access ladder systems: It is not uncommon for many construction companies to use a roof access ladder. It doesn’t mean ladders are easy to use. If ladders aren’t used correctly, they can be very dangerous. Consider the ladder’s height about the roof height. Check if there are three points at which the user can contact the ladder and if it is sturdy and stable. It is strongly advised that you do not use a ladder greater than 4.5m.
Roof anchors: They are Designed and installed by professional engineers, Roof Anchor Points They should be designed to safety standards.
Static System: These static line systems can be used for work at heights and can be used continuously. They are an excellent form of fall protection that is widely used when working at heights.
3. Encourage The Buddy System
It is strongly suggested that you utilize the buddy system when your workers work on roofs. You shouldn’t be alone on the roof in case anything happens. It is wise to have another pair of eyes in case any safety precautions are missed by one member.
4. Communication Is Important
For small-scale projects, it might not be practical for two workers on a roof. In such cases, it is important to ensure that each worker on the roof has access to communication with others below. For this purpose, a radio and a phone are sufficient. Encourage your workers and others to check in every fifteen minutes to verify their safety.
5. Be A Good Citizen Of The 2m Rule
Make sure that all your employees follow the 2m rule. The roof’s edge is the limit for employees. That is unless a roof safety rail system has been installed. Tip – clearly mark areas that are outside of the boundaries. No matter what type of fall protection system, you must train your employees before using it. There should be no confusion, error, or uncertainty in the use of fall protection equipment. It is essential to train properly and thoroughly. It is both your legal obligation and your responsibility as a caring employer.