Roof safety systems include:
Roof guardrails – Roof Safety Systems
Perhaps the most common roof safety systems are edge protection solutions, roof guardrails are designed to go around the border of roofs and prevent falls. Guardrails are suitable for most flat roofs, providing a clear boundary and preventing workers from getting too close to the edge.
Roof guardrails come in a range of sizes, shapes, and designs. Some are fixed to the roof, whereas others, like the KeeGuard system, are modular and freestanding, allowing them to be used either temporarily or permanently.
Roof walkways – Roof Safety Systems
Another type of collective protection solution, roof walkways create a raised route of access across the roof. Sometimes used in conjunction with guardrails, roof walkways like Kee Walk keep workers from having to walk on the roof surface, protecting them both from the roof edge and other fragile roof dangers.
Roof anchors – Roof Safety Systems
A type of personal protection, Roof anchors are usually fixed to the roof surface and provide a safe point to attach lanyards. These are a simple but powerful solution to safe working at height, as they are small, unobtrusive, and incredibly strong when fitted correctly.
You might also see non-permanent anchor solutions, such as the Weightanka system, that serve a similar purpose but utilise weights to negate the need to drill into the roof surface.
Lifelines – Roof Safety Systems
Lifelines are another alternative to fixed anchors, enabling greater reach across the roof while still keeping workers safe. Usually consisting of a long wire fixed to the roof with posts, lifelines are used in conjunction with a lanyard and traveller to allow workers to move more freely.
Workers are usually attached via a harness and work either in fall arrest or fall restraint. Some systems, like the KeeLine system, feature a traveller that can move between posts without the need to attach and reattach, ensuring work is fully hands-free.
Skylights are never safe to step on and generally become more brittle over time due to weather exposure, creating a serious fall risk if left unprotected.
You can mitigate the risk with a mesh panel cover for skylights, like the Kee Cover. These systems clearly mark areas of risk and prevent weight from being placed on the skylight itself, preventing falls.
How do I know which roof safety systems are suitable for me?
The best way to identify the correct roof safety system for your needs is by carrying out a comprehensive risk assessment. This will highlight the most prominent risks, allowing you to find the right solution.
In general, you should investigate collective systems like guardrails before implementing personal protection, as these systems protect anyone accessing the roof no matter their level of skill or training.
Do roof safety systems require recertification?
Site managers and business owners have a legal obligation to ensure safety equipment is inspected and recertified at least annually under the Safety, Health and Welfare Act at Work Act.
Fall arrest anchors, lifelines, and other types of personal protection should be inspected and recertified by a competent third party at least once every twelve months. Regular pre-use inspections should also be carried out throughout the year.
Although they are static and have fewer moving parts, collective systems such as guardrails should also be inspected annually, to make sure they remain functional and limit the risk of failure.
For more information about the roof safety systems we supply and install across Manchester and the North of England, or to find out more about our inspection and recertification services, get in touch.
