Install guardrails, warning lines or safety nets.When installing plastic sheeting, permanently mark areas where structural support is inadequate “Danger – No Step”.Covers must support two times the weight (body, equipment, materials) that may be imposed. Cover or guard holes with warning lines.Be aware of wet/slippery surfaces, obstacles, or uneven surfaces.Ensure scaffolding is secured, properly planked, and includes guardrails on platforms 10 ft or higher.Ensure ladders are set on firm stable ground, maintain “3 point contact” and always extend 3 feet above landings.Use a body harness or restraining belt with lanyard attached to the boom or basket of lift if using aerial lifts. ![]() Limit access or set up controlled access zones.As an employer, there are many protective measures you can implement to ensure the safety of your employees. OSHA code 1926.501(b)(1) mandates that fall protection systems are utilized when working on roofs or surfaces that are more than 6 feet high. The OSHA Act of 1970 requires all employers to provide employees with working conditions free of known dangers. Potential hazards include steep, slippery surfaces, obstacles, holes, and weakened structures. These activities require workers to access roofs to remove debris, install reinforced plastic tarps (blue roofs) or other roofing materials such as shingles and tile. Roof inspection, repair, and replacement activities are a dangerous yet necessary part of recovery from any natural disaster. Of all of the hazard observations identified in OSHA’s situational reports, Fall Hazards were the most prevalent. A total of 6 people lost their lives in the post-storm efforts of Roof Inspection, Tarping and Repair, and Assessment, Cleanup and Structural Repair. 129 internal situation reports were filed containing 4,000 entries detailing hazardous work conditions. The Hazard Exposure and Risk Assessment Matrix was compiled summarizing their findings. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Rita, and Wilma in 2005, OSHA monitored response and recovery related injuries and fatalities. Structural damage involving holes or weakened roofs can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal. Some of these hazards include mold, contaminated or toxic floodwaters, electrical danger, and structural damage. Post hurricane clean up involves many potential hazards of which employers and workers need to be aware. Employers have a responsibility to both their employees and communities to ensure necessary steps are taken to provide a safe work environment during this difficult rebuilding process. ![]() With any natural disaster comes the aftermath where the people impacted must come together to pick up the pieces and begin to rebuild their communities. Hurricane season is upon us and in the wake of Hurricane Florence, it is imperative that we address the many hazards response and recovery workers face – particularly in terms of rooftop safety.
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