Engaging in tasks on rooftops carries significant hazards, regardless of the brief duration of the job.
Effective measures are essential for mitigating risks
Individuals responsible for the task must undergo proper training, exhibit competence, and receive clear instructions regarding the necessary safety measures. Employing a ‘method statement’ is a typical approach to oversee roof-related activities and convey precautionary steps to all parties involved.
When operating within commercial premises, contractors should establish a close collaboration with the client to mutually define strategies for overseeing the project
Essential Information
Comprehensive awareness is necessary for all those responsible for supervising or conducting roof-related tasks. Consider the following information:
Elevated Risk: Roof-related work contributes to nearly 20% of fatalities within the construction industry. This pertains not only to specialised roofers but also to individuals engaged in tasks like roof repairs and maintenance. Primary Causes: The leading factors behind fatalities and injuries involve falls from roof edges or openings, as well as accidents occurring through fragile roofs and rooflights. Equipment and Personnel: The potential for accidents could be significantly reduced by utilising appropriate equipment and ensuring that workers involved receive sufficient details, instructions, training, and oversight.
Ensuring Safe Roof Access
Establishing safe entry points to rooftops necessitates meticulous planning, especially when tasks are carried out along the roofline.
For instance, during the process of roof cleaning the methods employed for gaining access to roofs are as follows:
- General access scaffolds
- Stair towers
- Fixed or mobile scaffold towers
- Mobile access equipment (MEWP)
- Roof ladders and harnesses
- Roof access hatches
It’s astonishing to witness the risks individuals are willing to take even in today’s era. I’ve observed people on roofs during heavy rain without proper equipment such as roof ladders and harnesses, completely disregarding safety measures. A single misstep or slip can lead to a fatal fall from a considerable height. To avert endangering lives, it’s crucial to engage the services of a professional roof cleaning team.
Addressing Roof Edges and Openings
Accidents stemming from falls off roof edges are prevalent in both commercial and residential projects, spanning new constructions and renovations. Unfortunately, numerous fatalities occur each year involving smaller construction crews working on residential rooftops.
Sloping Roofs: To prevent individuals and materials from falling, scaffolding is necessary for sloping roofs. Edge protection must also be affixed to the eaves of all roofs and, on terraced properties, to both the front and rear sections. In cases where tasks are brief (taking only a few minutes), securely anchored ladders for roof access and appropriate roof ladders can be utilised.
Flat Roofs: Implementing simple edge protection measures like a reliable double guardrail and toeboard along the edge can prevent falls from flat roof edges.
Fragile Surfaces
Prioritise the Adoption of a Safe Work Approach
Whenever possible, adhere to a secure work methodology that involves the use of a platform positioned beneath the roof. When dealing with fragile roof surfaces or engaging in tasks in proximity to such areas, it’s essential to implement a comprehensive set of precautions. This includes employing staging, guardrails, fall restraint mechanisms, fall arrest systems, and safety nets that are positioned beneath the roof and in close proximity to it.
Dealing with Fragile Roofs:
It’s vital to treat all roofs as fragile until a qualified individual confirms otherwise. It’s unsafe to assume that any sheeted roof, regardless of the material, can support the weight of a person. This precaution extends to the roof ridge and purlins.
Fragile rooflights pose a specific risk. Some may be difficult to spot under certain lighting conditions, while others might be obscured by paint. Adequate protection must be established in these regions, either through the use of secure barriers or covers that are properly affixed and marked with a warning label.
How Cleancore UK does it with Correct Access
Cleancore UK: Uncompromised Safety and Effectiveness in Roof Cleaning
At Cleancore UK, we prioritise both safety and efficacy in our roof cleaning approach. Our method is not only gentle on your roof but also highly effective. When selecting a contractor to handle your roofing needs, it’s essential to ensure they have thoroughly considered all safety aspects of the job. This not only safeguards their team members but also places a priority on the safety of you, the homeowner or property manager, as well as your visitors.
Introducing Cleancore UK: Elevated Safety and Care
Cleancore UK stands firm on a principle of ensuring utmost safety while delivering top-notch service. To guarantee this, we’ve adopted a stringent policy: our team abstains from walking on roofs. Instead, we opt for the use of tower scaffolds or cherry pickers, particularly when access proves to be challenging.
Exploring the Cherry Picker Advantage
Cherry pickers, also known as aerial work platforms, offer an array of benefits in terms of safety, efficiency, and precision. These elevated platforms enable our professionals to access difficult-to-reach areas without endangering the structural integrity of your roof or compromising their own safety. Here’s why cherry pickers are an exceptional choice:
- Height Accessibility: Cherry pickers can be extended to significant heights, making them suitable for multi-story buildings and roofs with varying elevations.
- Stability: These platforms provide a stable and secure base, allowing our team to work comfortably without the risks associated with walking on roofs.
- Precision: Cherry pickers allow for precise positioning, ensuring that every corner and spot on your roof receives proper attention without the risk of damaging delicate materials.
- Safety: By working from a stable platform, our professionals significantly reduce the risk of falls and accidents, providing a safer environment for both them and your property.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: The efficiency of cherry pickers allows us to complete tasks promptly, potentially reducing labour costs and minimising disruption.
- Minimized Roof Stress: By eliminating the need to step on the roof itself, we avoid unnecessary stress on the roofing materials, extending their lifespan.
At Cleancore UK, our commitment to safety and excellence drives our approach to roof maintenance. With cherry pickers as part of our toolkit, we ensure both our team’s security and your property’s well-being, providing an optimal solution for even the most challenging roof access scenarios.
For a FREE consultation get in touch on 07735529727