Having confidence while installing your dream type of roof begins with adhering to roofing safety measures. Roofing a house is risky, and failure to be careful when installing the new roof can lead to fatal accidents and significant damages.
Although most homeowners prefer DIYs to save money, it is advisable to always get an expert to do the job. Experts have more experience and have a better know-how of roofing safety during the installation process.
Risks a Roofing Contractor Faces
Before we look at the safety measures, let’s first look at the challenges a contractor faces to know how to prevent them.
- Weather
Weather is hard to predict because sometimes it changes abruptly. When it is cold and snowy, roof shingles become slippery, making it hard for them to hold your feet in place. It is easy to slide on these roofs, and falling can lead to fractured and broken bones.
Also, strong winds are hard to deal with when installing a roof. Although most roofers prefer a warm day, sometimes it gets too hot that you cannot work on the roof anymore. These weather changes are a great hindrance to roof installation.
- Weak Ladders
You need a ladder to climb up the roof. Unstable and weak ladders can cause accidents. Before climbing up a ladder, always ensure it is secure. This way, you will not worry about falling.
- Debris On The Roof
Loose debris like tree branches and construction materials are a huge cause of accidents. Contractors can easily trip on the debris, resulting in bad injuries. Always ensure the roof is clean before working on it.
- Improper Knowledge On Use Of The Equipment
Safety equipment is not helpful if wrongly used. The roofers have a responsibility to learn the importance of each tool and its use. For example, when tying a rope around the waist, always ensure the tie-off point is strong enough to hold you if you fall.
- Improper Clothing
Roof masters should have enough knowledge of the roofing clothes and how to wear them. Ensure the clothes you are wearing enable you to walk around the roof easily and freely.
Wear closed shoes with soft soles and ensure the surface gives you a good grip. Wearing gloves protects your hands from injuries.
Roofing Safety Tips
Now that you know the dangers that roofing experts face, here are some tips to ensure you are safe. Take a look.
- Don’t Work In Wet And Windy Weather
Wet weather makes the roof slippery, and wet shingles are easy to slide on. Also, when it rains, the leaves and debris on the roof become damp, and you can easily slide on them. If it rains the day before your installation, you can wait for the roof to dry.
It is also advisable to avoid windy weather. Strong winds will make you lose balance leading to falls. Step down and wait until the weather calms down if it gets windy in the middle of a roof installation process.
- Use A Firm And Functional Ladder
Check the ladder before you step on it to ensure it is firm enough to carry your weight. If it is squeaky, you can fix it first. Mind your steps on the ladder too. Even if it is new and robust, stepping on it carefully will minimize the chances of falling.
- Use Harness
Most roof installers will not consider wearing harnesses because they are not the most comfortable to be in. These safety accessories are essential because they protect you from falling.
- Wear Protective Garments
Protective garments are anything from clothes, to shoes, to helmets, to gloves. You should tightly tie your shoelaces to protect yourself from tripping when walking on the roof.
Ensure the soles are soft but hard enough not to be pricked through by small and hard-to-see objects like pins and thorns. The sole should also have an excellent grip to keep you safe on slippery roofs.
A helmet might seem uncomfortable to work in, but with a helmet, your head gets maximum protection in case of a fall. Keep the helmet correctly fastened to your head. Wear gloves to avoid hand injuries and also for enough grip.
- Clean The Site
A dirty site is another reason accidents occur. Sweep all the leaves and tree branches off of the roof before you begin the work. Also, ensure the working tools are not near your working place. There will be nothing to trip on, minimizing the accidents.
- Don’t Use Your Phone
Using your phone while on the roof shifts your attention and could lead to tripping on objects resulting in serious injuries. Do not go up the ladder with the phone.
- Get Training
Knowing what you need to do during a roof installation is essential. If you did not learn this in school, the internet is an excellent place to find the safety measures you need. You can also visit a roofing company and learn about a proper roofing safety plan.
- Get Insurance
Insurance for a roofing master is essential. If an accident occurs, the insurance will cover the bills. When hiring a roof master, ask them if they have insurance. This is because failure to have insurance can cost you a lot of money.
Final Words
Installing a new roof or renovating old and worn-out shingles is a significant project to undertake. When you hire a roofing company, ensure they are qualified, experienced, and know all the roofing safety tips to avoid accidents and losses.
Contact us today to get a free inspection, and we’ll be glad to serve you.
