It is not uncommon to be nervous when completing simple roofing maintenance. Jobs like cleaning gutters require you to get up high onto the roof, not just an intimidating task but a dangerous one. In the case of professionals, they can be seen accompanied by all the required safety gear and this allows for them to easily and safely conduct any repairs or installations.
However, it is not only the people conducting the repairs that are required to be alert to safety. Injuries can also be sourced from tools or materials that fall off the roof whilst they are being repaired. This results in injuries being caused to other people in the vicinity or even bystanders. Consequently, we are required to barricade off areas near and below high places that are being worked on, in order to see that no bystanders are injured. Similarly, nets can be installed to ‘catch’ any falling materials or tools.
Safety harnesses must be used when repairs, inspections or any actions need to be taken on a roof. It is critical that the safety harness is attached to something that is firm and sturdy. This is in the case that somebody falls or slips, you will be saved by the harness. Having a harness is vital for steeper roofing but roofs with less slope still require extreme caution.
Ice, rain, dew and snow can all result in a slippery roof, this poses a huge safety hazard. To resolve this issue, it is wise to simply just let the roof dry out. Similarly, excess debris present on the roof can also result in issues and it is critical that any debris present is carefully swept away prior to any working on the roof. Ensure that anyone working on the roof is wearing traction shoes, shoes with rubber soles that supply lots of traction on the roof. When on the roof, exercising caution to be aware of any displaced or loose tiles, putting a lot of pressure on one of these can result in the worker falling off or into the roof. This can be avoided by making sure you test each area by lightly putting your weight onto it, ensuring that you are holding your harness when doing so. If the roof is not structurally sound, it is very wise to construct some scaffolding around it. Alongside boards to walk on (that are thoroughly installed) allows for the transportation of workers and materials around the building in a safe and secure manner.
By ensuring that all your tools are in a tool carrying box or in a belt and by not traversing the roof whilst holding tools, you can further make sure safety is a priority. Additionally, by having a person on the ground that ensures that the area below the roof is clear and can supply help if needed is an incredibly wise idea.