Roof safety - openings and guards

 

Did you know that when accessing a roof via a hatch and it is left open, the hatch itself is considered a fall hazard? OSHA standard 26 CFR 1910.23 states that, “every ladder-way, floor opening, or platform shall be guarded by a standard railing with standard toe-board on all exposed sides (except at the entrance to an opening), with the passage through the railing either provided with a swinging gate or so offset that a person cannot walk directly into an opening.”

Many roof top safety manufacturers have their own offerings, with the aid of modern technology. Fully engineered, non-penetrating rooftop safety equipment is now widely available throughout the industry. These weighted systems meet all standards and regulations without putting any holes into your roof or façade. Although some roof access designs are more challenging than others; these systems are fully customizable to fit any hatch/placement that you may have.

Remember, your existing safety systems may have already been in place for 20-plus years. Unless your equipment is being inspected annually, it may be time to re-evaluate your rooftop safety. Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) is a superior product in comparison to industry standard materials used in the past. They can better withstand exposure to the elements without corroding, are lighter in weight, have exceptional strength to weight ratio and come in contrasting colours.

For more information contact ktusim@tremco.ca.