Roofing hazards are a major concern in the construction industry. Roof safety refers to a system of preventative and safety measures implemented when performing work and repairs on rooftop structures. Roof safety should be practiced while on the job to avoid personal injury and damage to the structure.
Falls, the leading cause of death in the construction industry, are among roofing hazards to workers when they work in roof maintenance. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from roofs account for 34 percent of all fall-related fatalities each year. As a responsible business owner, ensuring the safety of your employees should be a top priority, and conforming to OSHA’s guidelines is your best way of doing this.
This post looks at some common hazards for roofers.
Fall Hazards
When working at heights, keep an eye out for potential fall hazards. The following are some fundamental questions to ask yourself and your team:
Is the structure strong enough to support the weight? Is there anything to be on the lookout for? Are there any guardrails available for employees? Are the ladders or your towable boom lift in the proper location, and are they working correctly and not defective? When working from a height, use an inspection checklist to ensure that you ask the right questions and assess fall hazards.
Hazardous Materials
More common when working with older roofs is the possibility of coming into contact with hazardous materials. For example, Such materials as asbestos can be life-changing to workers who aren’t fully equipped to deal with findings of this nature. Therefore, ensure all roofers or workers who need to access this area have full training to identify the different materials and know-how to handle and approach dangerous materials.
Weather Hazards
Working on a roof needs to be undertaken in all weather conditions. It includes exposure to inclement weather such as rain or snow along with extreme temperatures. Your workers need to know how to protect themselves and work safely when facing various weather conditions. Thorough training on how to dress appropriately or handle excessive heat from tools needs to be implemented to comply with safety guidelines and ensure everyone is safe at all times.
Electrical Hazards
With electrical hazards accounting for 52 percent of all fatal workplace electrical accidents in the United States, the construction industry is particularly vulnerable. Electrical hazards pose the greatest danger to workers who work on rooftops or in close proximity to power lines. Mishandling of electrical equipment can result in massive electrical shocks, burns, fires, and even death. Carry out regular electrical safety checks to identify and control potential electrocution causes to avoid accidents from occurring.
Power Tool Hazards
There is no denying that working with power tools is vital for roofing work. However, working at a height with power tools can pose different challenges. In addition, the delay in getting help should an accident occur can be life-threatening. Therefore, implement ongoing and thorough training for all employees. Also, make sure they know how best to approach problems or concerns, and administer even basic first aid in an accident. Powering tools both off and on is vital, as is keeping a cool head in an emergency.
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