Workers who fall from even modest heights may get crippling and life-altering injuries, including fractures, spinal cord injuries, concussions, and brain damage. As working heights rise, there is a greater chance of suffering a significant injury or passing away in a fall.
People frequently fall from heights through flimsy roofing materials or exposed edges while there is risk assessment for roof work. Numerous prosecutions have occurred, and many of them show that inadequate planning by individuals in charge of the roof construction and ensuing shortcomings in measures, monitoring, and training were the primary causes of these disasters.
Risks and roofing work
Work on or near rooftops may be necessary for a variety of reasons. From the original building phase through the required upkeep, cleaning, repairs, and refurbishments of any plant or equipment installed on the roof to the ultimate roof stripping and disassembly. Falls through delicate materials, such as roof lights and asbestos cement roofing sheets, are the primary cause of fatalities.
The lack of competence and competency in carrying out the work activities and in the planning and organizational components of the roof work is a contributing factor in many incidents involving falls from heights which should be paid attention to.
Edge Awareness
Losing the roof’s edge might be problematic when performing roof repairs. Some workers become so engrossed in their tasks that they lose track of the roof edge.
Improper use of fall protection equipment, such as a weak tie-off point, a lanyard that is too lengthy, or a railing that is not securely fastened. It’s crucial to know how to utilize fall protective equipment effectively and receive training.
Guidelines for Avoiding Risk Assessment for Roof Work
While risk assessment for roof work has higher chances; due to that, there are some warnings for on-duty workers which are highlighted below
- Avoid heights, when possible, when working.
- If working at heights is necessary and cannot be avoided, employ safety equipment to prevent falls.
- When there is no way to avoid the danger of falls altogether, employ work equipment to reduce the length and severity of any injuries.
However, it is sure that some risk assessment for roof work and some potential roof works will need to be done. Thus, it is crucial to plan and appraise any such work before it is done. The hierarchy of control for determining how to work at height safely is laid forth in Regulation 6 of WAH. The order must be followed methodically, and the next level should only be considered when the previous level is not practically feasible.
Why You Should Never Avoid Risk Assessment for Roof Work
If you seem to be ready working on your home whether it is just remodeling your bathroom or moving furniture, most importantly, what you should avoid is checking the roofs. Neglecting the roof checking can lead to various type of roofing risks that could be lurking in the attic which you will possibly may not be aware of.
It is always advised that you seek expert advice; never try to do anything of your own in this case; otherwise, it can be dangerous if not done properly.
Below highlighted are some points associated with the risk assessment for roof work; read on to know more in detail.
- Every roofing project is meticulously organized and planned.
- Those responsible for organizing and completing the job are capable
- The work’s dangers are evaluated
- The right tools are chosen, utilized, maintained, and examined.
- Risks associated with brittle surfaces are well managed.
- The dangers of falling items are well managed
- Plans for crises and rescue (for example, if a fire occurs).
It’s crucial that everyone who will be working on the roof has received the appropriate instruction and is qualified to do so. A qualified individual must conduct a risk assessment to identify potential roof work dangers before doing any work on the roof.
Conclusion
While working on a roof, always be careful about the risk assessment for roof work. However, it is nearly certain that some roof work will need to be done. Thus, it is crucial that planning and analyzing any such work be done.