Roof Safety 101

Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to accessing your roof. Many Superintendents and Maintenance Technicians of commercial properties need to access the building roofs from time to time. We want to make sure, if you’re venturing up on your roof, that you’re safe and follow all of the proper precautions! Below are some safety tips that will keep you and your fellow employees safe when up on a roof.

1. NEVER go up on a roof alone. Make sure to have a buddy with you in case someone gets hurt or an issue occurs.
2. ALWAYS survey the scene before walking on the roof. Chances are, if the roof surface looks rotted and cracked, that the deck below is in the same condition and your weight won’t be supported. If there’s ANY doubt, do not proceed. Err on the side of caution and safety and call a professional.
3. ALWAYS wear rubber soled shoes or boots to help prevent slipping. Roof membrane can be slippery even if it’s not wet. Beware of leaves and other debris that can create slippery surfaces as well.
4. NEVER go up on a roof during inclement weather. This includes windy days. It may be bright and sunny with not a cloud in the sky but, being on a rooftop on a windy day is just as dangerous as being up there during a thunderstorm.
5. If you’re using a ladder to access your roof, make sure it is in proper working condition and free of damage and defects. Make sure that the surface it is placed on is level and solid. Always use a ladder stabilizer at the top.
6. ALWAYS wear a safety harness and make sure that it is tied to a sturdy part of the roof. That way, if you fall you won’t go too far and a friend can pull you to safety.
7. Be mindful of the tools and supplies that you bring onto the roof. Dropping a screwdriver or hammer or even nails/screws can puncture the roof surface which will result in roof leaks.
8. Make sure you take all of your tools and supplies with you when you leave the roof. Leaving them on the roof not only poses a tripping hazard for anyone coming onto the roof after you, they can also be blown around by wind or float around during heavy rain which could result in punctures and tears.

Need a professional to assess your commercial roof in New Jersey? Call Matrix Roofing Systems today at (267) 327-4680. We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have, and schedule an appointment to inspect your roof.

Reference:
www.safety.com