Skylight Safety

When considering the outdoor elements roof skylights are subject to, the skylight can become brittle over time. Even those Skylights that are rated to hold the weight of a person walking on them are prone to degrading over time, with the risk of cracking or breaking. As a result, a slip on the roof can lead to a fall through the skylight. During winter, skylights can be covered by snow, making the hazard invisible while navigating the rooftop. For this reason, it is important that we understand the safety risks of having roof skylights and proactively protect roof workers from a fall.

The codes vary around the safety requirements of working around skylights, although the national building code states “Workers should not be assigned to work near a skylight without appropriate fall protection measures and procedures to ensure their safety.”. The OHSA also has documentation about skylight safety, and the use of specific fall protection solutions such as guardrails and roof barriers.

Yes, skylights can be equipped with a non-penetrating guardrail to prevent roof workers from accidentally falling or stepping on the skylight. This would stop any roof worker from getting too close to the hazard and be just as effective during the winter.

The manufacturer and installer of the commercial skylight will be able to provide manuals and guidance around maintenance and inspection of their units.

Yes, especially if you’re expecting the skylight to withstand the weight of a roof worker. The manufacturer and installer of the commercial skylight will be able to provide manuals and guidance around maintenance and inspection of their units.

The penalties do not relate to not using a specific solution. The standards and regulations are focused on creating a safe environment while working near and around a fall hazard like a skylight. That being said, if an injury occurs, the building owner and/or site lead can be held criminally liable per the Westray Law (Bill C-45).

We prefer non-penetrating roof guardrails and barriers as they do not penetrate the roof membrane and are quick and easy to install around a skylight. They are also extremely easy to customize on-site, making it the right solution regardless of your skylight design. When it comes to fall protection for a skylight, you want to ensure that the system you select creates a fixed barrier between the roof worker and the skylight. Use a safety solution that proactively protects you from a fall, versus one that protects you once a fall occurs, such as a harness.