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In Australia, 26 workers die, and 8,000 are injured annually from falling from heights. As a manager or a roofing business owner, maintain standard safety protocols to ensure your workers’ safety and win the trust of your clients.
However, if you’re uncertain where to start, here are some simple precautions you must embrace immediately!
1. Place safety rails and perimeter flag lines
Roofers must not work on any roof (6 feet or higher) with unprotected edges. These must always be protected with protective measures, including guardrail systems, warning line systems, safety net systems, and personal fall arrest systems.
Install perimeter flag lines 6 feet from the edges on all sides. This way, nobody will go beyond the bounds and will be safe from falls. The bright-colored flags automatically alert all workers that they must not get too close to them.
Additionally, invest in perimeter safety rails to prevent rooftop falls, especially if the task requires working on the edges.
2. Use strong scaffolding systems
If there’s a “break in elevation” of 19 inches or more, you must hire a scaffolding Auckland from a reliable and affordable provider. Ensure they have a complete set with ladders, handrails, access platforms, and toeboards.
Communicate the exact height of the scaffold required, and they’ll be there for you with tailored solutions.
If you’re thinking of getting only a few ladders, remember that a scaffolding system is stronger, which is important to ensure workers’ safety.
It has enough space and capacity to carry the weight of two people, along with the necessary equipment and tools. The system can also help you reach heights that a single ladder can’t.
3. Buy protective equipment
Workers must wear long-sleeved shirts and full pants. If roofing is done during rainy seasons, arrange waterproof clothes. Besides that, buy these protective gear.
Gloves
Similar to the ones used in other construction industries such as house painting, pool fencing or flooring. These are necessary to prevent cuts and scrapes, leading to infections from sharp tools. Gloves also offer better grip on slippery places, providing better balance and preventing falls.
Safety boots
These will protect the feet from sharp objects on the roof and the surrounding ground and better grip on the roof.
Hard hat
Hard hats are specially designed to protect the head from the impact of falling heavy and hard objects from above. It not only prevents head injuries, but also minimises dehydration and slows down heat exhaustion.
Inspect hard hats for signs of wearing, such as dents and cracks. Replace them if there’s any damage.
Additionally, hard hats help everyone identify each other from afar. People are more likely to exercise caution and follow all safety regulations when they notice someone else from their workplace.
Safety goggles
These protect workers’ eyes from flying dust and debris during work and protect the eyes from asbestos (found in older roofs).
Earplugs
Hammering, sawing, and other roof-repairing activities are extremely loud. So, invest in quality earplugs for all workers and not disposable foam ones. This gear lowers inner ear stress and minimises the chances of ear damage.
Anyone that feels their earplug isn’t working must switch it out instantly. Regularly inspect earplugs and change them whenever there’s visible damage.
4. Train all workers
Provide proper training to all workers on the safe usage of scaffolds, ladders, safety equipment using fall protection systems, and caring for both light and heavy equipment. All workers must have updated qualifications.
Enroll the team in training for roof hazard recognition so they can inspect and take instant action whenever necessary.
Enforce rules and regulations and ensure nobody violates them. Have strict punishment for rule violation. Perform regular inspection on the fall protection gear and heavy equipment maintenance. This ensures that workers take the rules seriously.
5. Ensure everyone is hydrated
Commercial roofing tasks are usually conducted on hot, sunny days. Hydration is important to ensure good health and safety. Ensure all workers drink 7 oz of water around every 15-20 minutes.
If possible, fix a drinking water station on the roof. If not, arrange for a setup to send water bottles on the rooftop at intervals.
Workers must also be taught about signs of heat exhaustion and seek help when they feel unwell. They must not force themselves too much and learn to understand their limits. Everyone must also keep an eye on fellow team members.
Conclusion
Roof repair site safety is extremely important. With these steps, create a safe and secure environment for all workers and ensure their healthy lives ahead!
