Anything that requires you to work at heights comes with an inherent danger, and roofing work is no exception. Falls cause a lot of fatalities in the construction industry annually. Luckily, you will be compensated for your injuries by insurance companies. However, you need to address the contractors insurance questions to secure compensation.
With that said, here are some of the do’s and don’ts contractors should follow if they want to avoid any workplace accidents.
DO Participate in Safety Training
New contractors or company employees should get the appropriate safety training before they start working on roofs. The NRCA provides various safety tips and resources, including safety classes covering all the latest updates to OSHA standards. This training helps you be more proactive when it comes to safety at the workplace.
DON’T Ignore Weather Conditions
Like most things that involve working outside, weather can adversely affect roof construction work. Any kind of precipitation can make it harder to walk properly on the rooftop and enhance the risk of you either falling or slipping, so it always better to use safetly measuers like roof guardrail. Heavy winds can also prove dangerous, especially when a sudden gust catches you off guard.
DO Dress Appropriately
The clothes a roofing contractor wears can help contribute to safe practices. Wear soft-soled shoes, work boots, or closed-sole footwear with enough tread to prevent sliding and slipping. Your outer clothing should be comfortable and not restrict movement.
Goggles and a hard hat will provide protection for both your eyes and head, while gloves will help protect your hands and allow you to safely handle materials when up there.
DON’T Work Alone
Anything could happen while you’re on the roof working, and you never know what it could be. Even simple repair jobs can sometimes lead to scenarios that result in severe injuries and even fatalities. If you work on roofs, always make sure at least two people are working together at all times, or tag someone along if you are working on a project by yourself.
One person can act as the spotter, a proactive approach that can help reduce the risks of accidents occurring. This way, if an accident does happen, there’s someone to assist the injured and call for aid.
DO Meet OSHA Protection Requirements
OSHA has many fall protection standards for roofing applications. According to OSHA, almost 90% of all fatal falls happen because there’s no fall protection system. All roofing contractors must have protection systems in place when working over 6 feet above the ground. Anyone that does work on roofs should install warning lines at least 6 feet from the edge of the roof and have fall protection past this.
Final Takeaway
This list can go on and on. However, hopefully, you get the gist. The best way to prevent workplace accidents is by following the do’s and don’t above, of course, and following the safety rules and regulations laid out by OSHA. Proper training and education can save lives. If you’re tempted to do your roofing work by yourself, following these safety tips can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.
