Trident Roofing: Safety First for Roofing Contractor
The roof is the highest point of the house so dealing with it requires extra precaution.
According to MSN there are approximately 37 fatalities annually among roofers for every 100,000.
Any work on a roof is a risk. The nature of the precautions needed to work safe may vary from one job to another, roofing companies like Trident Roofing may implement their own safety rules but not providing safeguards is unacceptable. There are many factors that could contribute to avoidable accidents when working on roofs these are:
• Pitch of the roof – the steeper the pitch, the more difficult it is to maintain your footing.
• Moisture – rain, snow or frost may cause slippery conditions on the roof.
• Dirt or Sawdust – may cause slippery conditions on the roof.
• Footwear – the traction of shoes/boots varies, always wear good traction shoes/boots.
• Tripping hazards – tools, electric cords, etc. can create a tripping hazard.
All of these can be avoided if certain precautions are taken. Before any roof work is done roofing companies like Trident Roofing should have a risk assessment. A risk assessment can identify the risks that will be encountered before performing the specific tasks required for the job. If any risks are identified it could be addressed right away before any harm could be done. There should also be a secured way to get on or off the roof for this is a major risk point. Roofing companies like Trident Roofing should also provide their workers with a fall arrest system. A fall arrest system is required if a worker may fall from an elevated position. As a general rule, the fall arrest system should be used if the working height is greater than six feet which is the case when working in the roof. Another way to prevent any injury and damage is that roof workers should the knowledge, skills and experience to work safely just like the workers of Trident Roofing.
Observing safe work practices is very vital to ensure the safety of the workers. Roofers need ladders when they are working. Proper use of the ladder is a must know for roof workers. When using a ladder roofers should always make sure the ladder is at a set level and at safe distance from the structure. Some method of stabilizing the ladder should be used. A roofer should not walk on a roof any more than is necessary or they may cause more damage. They shouldn’t walk on tile and slate roofs at all they're slippery and breakable. Also, they should remember to keep their center of gravity low and over their feet to keep their balance and keep them from falling.
These are just few of the countless of safety precautions roofers should take. But no matter what the situation may be presence of mind and common sense could save a life.
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