When in comes to the roofing industry, safety should be a number-one priority for everyone involved. Skipping out on preventative safety measures because they take up too much time makes it all the more common for an accident to happen — so why take the chance? Our roofing contractors in Orlando remind roofing personnel across the nation to continuously keep safety observations as a top concern, and we’re here with a few reminders to help you do just that.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there were close to 5,000 workers killed on the job across the United States in 2014. On average, that’s more than 90 a week (or more than 13 each day). Fatal work injuries involving contractors accounted for more than 15 percent of all recorded fatal work injuries for the same year. In construction, OSHA has deemed the four most common causes of workplace fatalities as the “Fatal Four”. These causes include falls, electrocutions, struck by object and caught-in/between incidents. Eliminating the “Fatal Four” would help to save more than 540 workers’ lives in the US each year. Our Winter Springs roofing contractors are here with a few general roofing safety tips to help keep you and your crews safe out there on every job.
General Roofing Safety:
- Ensure that your workplace is always clean, organized and blocked off from non-roofers. Be sure to note each potentially dangerous area within your work site, including unsafe roof access and low-hanging power lines.
- Never go onto a roof alone. Always have someone with you just in case.
- Never work on a roof that is slippery or wet.
- Avoid working on a roof when it’s too hot. In 2014, there were more than 2,600 workers who suffered from heat illness on the job. Close to 20 died that same year from heat stroke and other related causes. These injuries and fatalities are completely preventable.
- When you’re not using your power tools, secure them with short lengths of rope or Bungee cords.
- Don’t forget your roof harness. A harness set typically includes a roof anchor, harness, rope, and lanyard.
- Wear proper footwear. Be sure to wear boots or shoes with good tread and rubber soles.
Ladder Safety:
- Be sure to follow all warning and instruction labels on ladders.
- Never use a ladder that is damaged or broken.
- Be sure to always maintain three points on contact with the ladder when climbing.
- Only use ladders for their intended purpose.
- Check all rung locks and spreader braces on your ladder to make sure they are set.
- Only one person at a time is permitted on a ladder unless the ladder is specifically designed for more than one climber (such as a Trestle Ladder).
- Climb facing the ladder, move one step at a time and firmly set one foot before moving the other.
- Never place a ladder on a box, barrel or other object to gain additional height.
- Once your ladder is fully extended and leaning against the roof, fasten the ladder’s top to a rafter using roof anchors.
Electrical Safety:
- It’s critical to avoid power lines at all costs. When they are unavoidable, be sure to contact your local utility company before you begin working in the area.
- Be sure to use a fiberglass or wooden ladder instead of metal. Be extremely cautious when installing metal flashings as nearby electricity can jump or “arc” to metal objects located several feet away.
- Never, ever touch hot wires with your tools or your hands.
- Don’t attempt to operate machines unless you’ve been trained and authorized to do so.
- Assume all wires are energized.
Material Safety:
- A lot of time and materials go into each roofing project. While you may be inclined to carry as much as you can to minimize trips, it’s a very dangerous move. This is especially relevant when climbing ladders or walking across rooftops.
- Be sure that you store your materials close to the roof to save both energy and time when retrieving the necessities.
- Lift with your legs. Do not lift with your back. Take breaks when tired to avoid injuries.
- Ensure that you and your fellow roofers are following the material manufacturer’s instructions.
If you’re considering having work done on your roof, call our Orlando roofing contractors at (855) 685-3850 today for a free estimate. Not only do we provide regular inspections, but we can help to repair current roofing systems that may be failing or we can install new roofing systems to best help you, your family and your business stay safe. There’s no job too small and no task too big. With offices in Fort Myers, Orlando, Sarasota and Miami, we’re here to help with all of your roofing needs.