Safety While Cleaning The Roof

Roof holes unguarded skylights and poorly covered holes.

Safety while cleaning the roof.

Without fall protection an open hole on a roof can be just as deadly as the roof edge and according to osha 1910 23 a 4 requires a skylight screen or railing on all exposed sides. Demonstration of how to safely utilize a safety harness. Clean your roof on a cloudy calm day when the wind isn t blowing and there s no threat of precipitation. Above the roof edge so you ll have something to hang on to as you step onto.

The right protection devices and policies will ensure that employees can perform work in a secure environment. A safety harness isn t always necessary but if you re working on a roof that is steeply pitched or on the roof of a building that is several stories high then err on the side of caution and wear a safety harness that is securely fastened to a tie off. Know the pitch of the roof and follow the appropriate standard. Home accidents are one of the leading causes of injuries.

If possible avoid carrying anything up the ladder. This video includes securing the anchor point properly using the lanyard and how to wear the harnes. Extend the top of the ladder at least 3 ft. Occupational safety and health act of 1970 to assure safe and healthful working.

Edge awareness losing the edge of the roof can be a problem when you are engaged in roof work. Inspect the roofing harness for any damage. Clean your roof only after determining that you can safely walk its surface. Roof safety is a must for any building owner.

Wear a roof safety harness wearing a full body safety harness is the next essential thing when it comes to rooftop safety. Unprotected edges heights tripping hazards and extreme heat can put workers at risk for accidents. Operate efficiently while limiting the distance they could fall. How to maintain safety while cleaning written by susan m.

Here are a few pointers to make it easier and safer. Fortunately a few precautions can not only lessen our chances of injury. Keenan on sep 14 2011. The safety harness for roofing should feel snug on your body but not too tight so you could still move freely.

Low slope roof 4 12 slope or less. In fact the roof should regularly be swept clean. Use a helper and a bucket tied to a rope to hoist up tools and. While trying to clean our homes so that they sparkle and present a picture perfect image we also place ourselves at an added risk.

If the slope is too steep to easily traverse or if your house is more than one story you should hire a pro. Your roof is a landmine of potential hazards.