Even though flat roofs have a minimal slope, accidents can still occur, making it crucial to understand and follow common safety practices. There are general safety practices and legal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines to follow when operating on a roof.
Duerson Corporation is built on the principles of integrity, quality, and innovation to practice the safest repair and replacement practices.
OSHA Fall Protection
The appropriate fall protection measures vary based on the distance between a worker and the ledge, as well as the frequency of work. The practices outlined below are mandated by OSHA and are obligatory for any work conducted on a flat roof.
Six Feet Or Less From A Ledge
For those working within six feet or less from an edge, protection around the roof perimeter is crucial. There are several precautionary measures individuals can employ.
Guardrail System
The guardrail system stands as a preferred choice for worker safety. This straightforward approach requires no specialized training. Comprising a 42-inch high steel barrier around the roof’s edge, the guardrail system can withstand forces of at least 200 pounds.
Travel Restraint System And Personal Fall Arrest System
A travel restraint system and a personal fall arrest system both require a lanyard to be connected to a secure anchor point and a harness. However, they prevent falls differently. A travel restraint system, as the name suggests, restrains the users from venturing to the roof’s complete edge.
A personal fall arrest system, on the other hand, allows a worker to reach the edge, but the lanyard attached to the harness locks up when a fall is indicated. This is beneficial when a worker needs to work closer to the edge and have unrestricted movement.
Six to 15 Feet From A Ledge
When roof work occurs frequently (once a month or more) within the range of six to 15 feet from the ledge, the same fall protection practices apply as detailed above. But, for work conducted within this range once a month or less, only a designated area is required.
Designated Area
A designated area on a flat roof refers to a specific space allocated for tasks. Marking this workspace establishes clear boundaries for workers, preventing falls. The border of the designated area is called a warning line. The warning line can be made of ropes, wires, or chains with a minimum breaking strength of 500 pounds.
More Than 15 Feet From A Ledge
Lastly, for tasks frequently performed 15 feet from a ledge, a designated area needs to be in place. If it is temporary (lasting less than two hours) and infrequent work no fall protection is required.
General Fall Protection Practices
In addition to OSHA fall protection practices in place, general practices are equally important when working on a flat roof. Below, are outlined practices to consider.
- Designate Safe Routes: Use safety tape to mark specific paths and block openings, ensuring safe routes.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule quarterly roof maintenance and maintain detailed records of each session.
- Debris-Free Roof: Keep your flat roof clean from debris and promptly address any water ponding issues.
- Updated Policies: Ensure your policies and procedures are current, and strictly follow them.
- Proper Training: Verify that all workers have undergone proper safety training.
- Appropriate Attire: Wear suitable clothing and safety accessories.
- Right Clothing: Avoid excessively loose or tight clothing.
- Footwear Matters: Opt for non-conductive, strong-grip footwear.
- Protective Gear: Hard hats, safety glasses, and other necessary protective equipment.
- Weather Awareness: Stay vigilant about weather conditions. In summer, guard against dehydration and heat exhaustion, while winter demands warmth and caution against harsh winds.
- Co-worker Awareness: Stay informed about the whereabouts of your co-workers.
- Medical Readiness: Know the location of the medical kit and understand how to promptly access medical assistance.
Partner with Duerson–a Roofing Company You Can Trust!
Entrusting your roof-related tasks to professionals is the best and safest approach. When your building requires new installations or repairs, reach out to Duerson! Duerson Corporation is your reliable partner for roofing solutions as a certified Duro-Last commercial roofing company, serving the entire Midwest.