As professional roof lifeline system installers, we’ve heard our fair share of fall protection statements in the past. Some of them true and others completely false. And since roof accidents are of a serious nature, it’s vital to know the truth before the unthinkable happens due to incorrect information. So, we’ve decided to set the record straight on some of the most ridiculous fall protection statements we’ve come across.

Myth 1: “You Don’t Need to Wear Safety Equipment If It’s Only Going to Take a Few Minutes”

The amount of time spent on a roof has nothing to do with the terms of using or wearing fall protection, making this statement completely untrue. Whether you spend 2 minutes or 2 hours at height, the risk of falling remains the same. No matter how long the work is going to take, the employer is responsible for providing the worker with proper fall protection equipment.

Myth 2: “Fall Protection Equipment Is One-Size-Fits-All”

This statement can’t be further from the truth. You can use the same fall protection for every application. Working on a beam in a factory hall requires different equipment than working on a roof. Fall arrest requires different equipment than working in fall restraint. An evaluation of your worksite should be carried out to see what type of fall protection to use.

Myth 3: “Fall Protection Is an Unnecessary Expense”

Many people believe that fall protection is costly but it all depends on what you deem important. Employee safety IS important. Preventing accidents IS important. Accidents that could lead to permanent disability or even death. Medical expenses are expensive and so are the cost of fines and compensation to the family of the victim. If you look at it this way, you’ll find that installing proper fall protection isn’t that expensive after all.

These untrue statements are dangerous if people believe them to be true. It’s our job to educate everyone on staying safe when working at height.  For more information about roof lifeline systems in Johannesburg or Cape Town, get in touch with Africa Anchor Systems today.

 

Roof safety should be high on the priority list of every business owner or property manager. It’s vital to take the necessary precautions to avoid accidents and dangerous situations every time you or your team works on a rooftop. But you already know that, right?

Sometimes it’s just good to get a reminder of what to look out for, so below is a list of 5 rooftop safety hazards to keep in mind when accessing a rooftop.

Stability of the Roof

Before you access the roof, make sure the roof is stable and strong enough to support your weight. Assess the trusses and check the underlayment before stepping onto the roof.

Holes on the Roof

Roof holes can be as dangerous as roof edges. Make sure all skylights and other holes are covered according to OSHA 1910.23(a)(4) regulations or have a railing on all sides that are exposed.

Split Level Roofs

If your team engages in roofing maintenance or repairs on split-level or low-slope roofs with unprotected edges and sides more than 1.8 metres above lower levels, they are required to wear the proper fall protection equipment.

Incorrect Use of Fall Protection Equipment

It is critical that your team understand how to use fall protection equipment properly. A too-long lanyard, poorly anchored railing or weak tie-off point might have detrimental consequences.

Poor Roof Safety Training

Anyone working on a roof that hasn’t been trained properly is a rooftop hazard. Not only could they cause serious injury to themselves but to others as well.

No matter what the situation, it’s crucial to use fall protection when accessing a roof to ensure the safety of your team. If combined with proper training, the risk of your team falling victim to severe accidents become extremely slim. For more information about roof anchor fall prevention in Johannesburg, get in touch with the team at Africa Anchor Systems today!