Working on roofs and siding can be challenging and risky, especially if you have to deal with different heights and slopes. You need to follow some best practices to ensure your safety and the quality of your work. In this article, we will share some tips on how to prepare, plan, and perform roofing and siding tasks safely and efficiently.
Before you start working on roofs and siding, you need to assess the site and identify any potential hazards or obstacles. For example, you should check the condition of the roof, the slope, the weather, the access points, the power lines, the trees, and the ground. You should also inspect your tools and equipment and make sure they are in good shape and suitable for the job. If you find any issues or risks, you should address them or report them to your supervisor.
Another important key assessment to the site is to identify how you will gain access to these elevated areas of work. If it is a roof or elevated area of a structure, how you will access these areas and what types of working platforms will be used must be considered. Approved and OSHA compliant stair towers or scaffolding with daily inspections by a Competent Person prior to each work shift is a must for these types access, with required PPE, fall protection and fall arrest systems in accordance with OSHA to be utilized. Making good use and practice of a Pre-task or JHA before work is also a must for all persons that will be performing roof or siding scope at elevated areas of work.
Another important aspect of working safely on roofs and siding is using the right gear and protective equipment. You should always wear a hard hat, gloves, boots, eye protection, and a harness. You should also use ladders, scaffolds, or lifts that are stable, secure, and appropriate for the height and slope of the roof. You should avoid working on roofs or siding that are wet, slippery, or damaged. You should also keep your work area clean and organized and avoid tripping or falling hazards.
Women in construction need to ensure their PPE fit properly provide adequate protection. Using gloves, harnesses, and other protective gear designed for men could compromise their safety in crucial times.
All workers involved in a roofing project must wear the necessary safety equipment at all times to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the job site. This includes properly wearing hard hats to protect against falling objects and debris, using protective eyewear to shield the eyes from dirt and dust, wearing gloves to provide grip and protection from sharp edges on materials like shingles, utilizing harnesses to prevent falls from heights, and installing guardrails to provide an additional layer of protection against falls. It is crucial to adhere to these safety measures to maintain the integrity of the project and prevent accidents or injuries.
When working on roofs and siding, you should follow the standards and regulations that apply to your industry and location. For example, you should follow the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for fall protection, ladder safety, and scaffold safety. You should also follow the manufacturer's instructions and specifications for installing and repairing roofs and siding. You should also use the best practices and techniques for cutting, nailing, flashing, and sealing roofs and siding.
Working on roofs and siding often involves working with other people, such as your co-workers, your supervisor, your clients, or your subcontractors. You should communicate and coordinate with them effectively and regularly to ensure a smooth and safe workflow. You should also be aware of your surroundings and watch out for each other. You should also have an emergency plan and a first aid kit in case of accidents or injuries.
One of the best ways to work safely on roofs and siding is to train and update your skills and knowledge regularly. You should attend safety courses, workshops, or webinars that cover topics such as roofing and siding materials, methods, tools, and hazards. You should also keep up with the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in your field. You should also seek feedback and advice from your peers, mentors, or experts to improve your performance and quality.
After completing a roofing or siding project, you should review and evaluate your work and your safety practices. You should check the quality and durability of your roofs and siding and make sure they meet the client's expectations and standards. You should also identify any mistakes, errors, or problems that occurred during the project and learn from them. You should also celebrate your achievements and recognize your efforts and contributions.
It seems that more and more, people either don't want to consider (as it's a hard question), or are totally oblivious to how they are going to get injured people down, escape from safety netting or just exit in case of fire. Basically because it all comes down to money. You should have separate access, e.g. a cherry picker and maybe even backup. You're not supposed to rely on 999 or 911. What is the answer, to remain cost effective?