1. Have the right equipment and protective gear:
Having the right equipment and protective gear is of utmost importance for all roofing projects. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should be provided to any workers involved in a roofing project, such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, non-slip shoes, a harness, and coveralls if appropriate.
2. Explain basic roofing safety rules:
Before beginning any work, employers should provide workers with an explanation of the safety rules that will be in effect for the duration of the project. These may include instructions on how to move safely around a roof and what types of materials or tools are not allowed within the confines of a particular worksite.
3. Implement safeguards against slipping and tripping:
Workers should have access to non-slip mats at all times while on a roof. Additionally, cordless tools should be used wherever possible to minimize potential tripping hazards caused by power cords or hoses lying around the roof space.
4. Train personnel thoroughly:
All workers should be properly trained for their roles. This includes training in the use of relevant equipment, such as ladders or scaffolding, as well as proper lifting and carrying techniques to prevent injury.
5. Check weather conditions regularly:
The weather can cause a roofing project to become dangerous very quickly. Employers should check the forecast regularly before commencing work and ensure that any employees working on a roof are aware of any potential hazards posed by inclement weather.
6. Monitor ladders, scaffolds and harnesses regularly:
To ensure the security of those working on roofs, ladders, scaffolds and harnesses must be thoroughly checked periodically for wear or damage. Should any issues arise, they should be reported immediately to avoid injury and remove it from service until repaired or replaced.
7. Provide warning signs for hazardous areas:
Any areas of a roof that may pose a greater risk to workers should have clearly visible warning signs that can be seen from a distance. This could include steep slopes, exposed wires, loose objects or other potential hazards.
8. Assign personnel to ensure safety protocols are followed:
Personnel should be assigned to monitor the safety protocols on site and provide additional training if necessary. These individuals need to have an in-depth knowledge of the regulations, any applicable codes and standards as well as emergency evacuation procedures.
9. Establish communication lines between workers:
Communication is key when working at heights. Set up effective communication lines between workers to ensure any potential hazards are reported quickly and efficiently.
10. Have a plan in place for responding to an emergency situation:
Employers should have a comprehensive plan in place for how to respond in the event of an emergency on site. This should include details of who will be responsible for activating the alarm, contact numbers for relevant authorities and procedures for evacuating personnel from the roof area safely and swiftly.
