When it comes to working on a roof, safety should always be the top priority. Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry, and roofers are particularly vulnerable due to the heights involved. Roofers typically work at heights, making fall protection systems an essential part of any safe workplace.
What is fall protection
Fall protection means any equipment, device, or systems that prevent workers from falling from a height or reduces the effects of the fall. Roofers need to be properly trained in order to use fall protection systems safely and reliably.
How to ensure a safe work site for roofers
Occupational health and safety regulations are vital to ensure that everyone working within confined spaces has the knowledge and skill to identify and understand the main types of hazards, types of confined spaces, and what type of equipment is needed.
Roof fall protection systems
There are a few different types of fall protection that are commonly used in roofing. Not all fall protection systems will be suitable solutions for all job sites, so it is important to assess the site and choose which systems are the best for each project.
Types of rooftop fall protection systems
Fall protection comes in many forms, including fall protection kits, systems, and workplace safety policies.
Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS)
The personal fall arrest system (PFAS) consists of a harness, lanyard, and anchor point. The harness is worn by the roofer and is connected to an anchor point on the edge of the roof. The lanyard is then attached to the harness and the anchor point, creating a secure connection between the roofer and the roof. If the roofer were to fall, the PFAS would arrest their fall and prevent them from hitting the ground.
safety harnesses and safety lines
Safety harnesses are worn by roofers and attached to a safety line. Safety lines allow roofers to move around while staying connected to an anchor point, giving the employer and the worker continuous fall protection. A safety harness and safety line system can either prevent a fall completely or minimize the impact of a fall if it were to happen.
guardrails
Guardrail systems are a physical barrier that prevents accidental falls. Guardrails are a passive form of fall protection, meaning they don’t require the roofer to actively engage them like a PFAS. They simply provide a barrier to prevent falls. In order to be effective, guardrails must be properly installed and meet specific height and strength requirements.
Safety nets
Safety nets are simply a net underneath the roof to catch any workers who fall. Safety nets are typically used when other forms of fall protection are not feasible or practical. Safety nets are designed to absorb impact and reduce the likelihood of severe injuries if a worker falls. They do not prevent falls; they reduce the risks associated with them.
Choosing the right safety systems is important
When selecting fall protection for a roofing job, it’s important to consider the specific needs of the job site. For example, a PFAS may be the best option for protecting a steeply pitched roof, while a guardrail system may be more appropriate for a flat roof. The size of the job site and the number of workers on the roof should also be taken into account.
It’s important to note that fall protection is not just about selecting the right equipment. Proper training and education are also essential components. Workers should be trained on how to properly use and maintain fall protection equipment. They should also be educated on the risks of working at heights and how to identify potential hazards on the job site.
Personal Protection Equipment is also important
In addition to fall protection equipment, there are other steps that can be taken to improve safety on the job site. Workers should always wear appropriate footwear with good traction to prevent slips and falls. They should also be encouraged to take breaks as needed to prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of accidents.
It’s important to have a plan in place for responding to accidents and emergencies. This includes having a first aid kit on site and ensuring that workers know how to use it. It also means employees have a plan for contacting emergency services in the event of a serious accident
The importance of roof fall protection systems
Fall protection is essential for roofers. Falls are a serious risk in the construction industry, and working at heights requires careful planning and preparation. By selecting the right fall protection equipment, providing proper training and education, and taking other steps to improve safety, roofers can help prevent accidents and keep themselves and their coworkers safe.
Fall protection training with Clockwork Training
Clockwork Training is a mobile training company that teaches businesses across BC. We come to you, allowing workers to be trained with the equipment they will be using on the job. Contact us to learn more about our fall protection training and our other safety courses.