When we think about working on rooftops, it’s not hard to imagine the huge range of safety risks faced by facilities teams and maintenance workers. However, many of the most common risks can be addressed through careful planning, proper safety protocols and by remaining fully compliant with Canadian safety regulations. In the latest safety guide from Skyline Group, we highlight five of the most common safety risks that threaten workers at height, with tips on how these can be mitigated.
Roof maintenance and installation work are dangerous by their very nature, with these risks multiplying during adverse weather conditions. Understanding these risks and acting upon them is critical, not only in protecting your teams but also in remaining compliant with key legislation. Let’s take a look at the top five risks:
1. Falling from the Roof Edge
Falling from the edge of a roof is the most significant danger faced by any worker at height. It is a sad fact that in Ontario alone, 20 people die every year as a result of workplace falls. These falls are the leading cause of serious injury and death for workers on rooftops, with unprotected edges, open roof hatches and the potential for falling through skylights presenting an ever-present danger. It is important to note that Canadian regulations, such as those outlined by Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation, require fall protection systems for heights over 3 meters.
- Mitigating the risk: To prevent falls, a combination of passive and active fall protection systems should be implemented. This includes installing guardrails along the roof’s edge as a passive barrier and using lifeline systems or roof anchors when workers must move away from protected areas. Roof hatches should be equipped with guardrails or barriers, and warning lines or bumplines can alert workers to dangerous areas. Meanwhile, regular inspections and maintenance of fall protection equipment are essential to ensure continued compliance and safety.
2. Slips, Trips and Falls on the Roof
Workers aren’t just at risk of slipping, tripping or falling from the edge of a roof. It is important to remember that the majority of falls happen on the same level. Naturally, the risk of these incidents happening on roof level are significantly increased when surfaces become slippery due to moisture, debris or uneven materials – particularly important to bear in mind with Canada’s levels of ice, rainfall or snow. During snowy conditions, RTUs such as solar panels and roof hatches can become hidden dangers.
- Mitigating the risk: To address slip and trip hazards, the installation of anti-slip walkways or crossover bridges can provide a safer path across the rooftop, reducing the risk of slipping. These walkways should be made from materials such as aluminum or have serrated rungs that provide extra grip. Regular removal of snow and debris from the rooftop is also necessary. Additionally, workers should wear slip-resistant footwear and ensure proper visibility by clearly marking skylights, roof hatches, and obstacles.
3. Weather-Related Hazards
Working on a roof exposes workers to the elements, making them vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. Heavy rainfall, snowstorms, strong winds, and even sun exposure can compromise worker safety. High winds, in particular, are hazardous as they can cause a loss of balance, while rain and snow can obscure hazards and create slippery surfaces.
- Mitigating the risk: To mitigate weather-related risks, it’s important to schedule rooftop work during favourable weather conditions whenever possible. In cases where work must continue during adverse weather, ensure that guardrails, lifelines, and safety harnesses are in place. Workers should also be trained in seasonal safety protocols, such as recognizing early signs of heat exhaustion or the dangers of working in icy conditions. High-quality personal protective equipment (PPE), including waterproof and insulated gear, should also be provided to prevent cold stress or heat-related illnesses.
4. Skylight Hazards
Skylights can present a hidden fall risk, particularly when they are not clearly marked or if snow covers them during the winter months. Workers may unknowingly step onto or near skylights, assuming they are a solid surface, which can lead to fatal falls.
- Mitigating the risk: One of the most effective ways to prevent accidents involving skylights is to install skylight safety solutions such as skylight screens or skylight guardrails around these openings. These safety barriers prevent workers from accidentally falling through. It’s also important to ensure that all skylights are clearly marked and visible year-round, even when snow is present. Regular inspections of these protective systems are necessary to maintain compliance with safety standards.
5. Material and Equipment Handling
Handling heavy tools and materials on a rooftop is risky, as workers are often required to balance and manoeuvre bulky equipment in an environment with limited space and fall hazards. The risk of dropping equipment is high, which not only poses a danger to workers below but can also result in injuries for the person handling the materials.
- Mitigating the risk: To safely handle materials on a rooftop, mechanical systems such as hoists should be used to lift equipment, preventing the need for manual lifting. Tools and materials should be tethered with tool lanyards to prevent them from being dropped. Additionally, crossover bridges can be installed to provide safe passage over rooftop obstacles, ensuring that workers can carry tools and materials without tripping. Proper training on load handling techniques and regular inspections of equipment handling systems are also key in reducing this risk.
Elevated Work, Elevated Safety: Choose Skyline Group
Here at Skyline Group, we are more than just a safety solution provider: we’re the trusted North American choice for safe elevated work areas. To transform safety levels on your rooftop, get started by browsing our safety solutions. Alternatively, book an On-Site Consultation or request a quote.
