Safe Work Procedure: Fall Protection Plan for Working at Heights on Roofs Near Leading Edges

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the fall protection requirements for employees working at heights on roofs near leading edges. It applies to all roofing activities where there is a risk of falling 6 feet (1.8 meters) or more to a lower level. This procedure is applicable to both low-slope and steep roofs and includes the use of guardrail systems, safety net systems, and personal fall arrest systems as primary fall protection measures.

This procedure should be used in conjunction with other safety documents such as the OSHA 29 CFR 1926 regulations and any site-specific safety plans.

2. Definitions

Leading Edge
The edge of a floor, roof, or formwork for a floor or other walking/working surface which changes location as additional sections are placed, formed, or constructed. It is considered an 'unprotected side and edge' during periods when it is not actively and continuously under construction [1].

Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS)
A system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a working level. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, and a body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combinations of these [1].

Guardrail System
A barrier erected to prevent employees from falling to lower levels [1].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all employees are trained in fall protection procedures and the use of fall protection equipment.
Conduct regular inspections of the work area and equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Implement corrective actions for any identified hazards or non-compliance issues.

3.2 Workers

Attend all required training sessions and follow all fall protection procedures.
Inspect personal fall protection equipment before each use.
Report any unsafe conditions or equipment to the supervisor immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of the fall protection plan.
Conduct audits and inspections to ensure compliance with the fall protection plan.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Unprotected edges	Falls from height	Use of guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems [2]
Leading edges	Falls during construction	Implement a fall protection plan when guardrails or nets are infeasible [2]
Weather conditions	Slips and falls	Schedule work during favorable weather conditions and use non-slip footwear

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for ensuring safety when working at heights.

Full Body Harness - Must be worn at all times when working at heights and connected to a secure anchorage point.
Lanyard with Shock Absorber - Used to connect the harness to the anchorage point, reducing the impact force in the event of a fall.
Hard Hat - Protects against head injuries from falling objects.
Non-slip Footwear - Provides traction to prevent slips and falls.
Gloves - Protect hands from cuts and abrasions.

Inspect PPE before each use and maintain according to manufacturer instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safety.

Guardrail Systems - Installed around the perimeter of the roof to prevent falls.
Safety Net Systems - Installed below the work area to catch falling workers.
Anchorage Points - Secure points to which fall arrest systems are attached.
Warning Line Systems - Used to alert workers of unprotected edges [2].
Lifelines - Used in conjunction with personal fall arrest systems to provide mobility and safety.

Inspect and maintain all equipment regularly.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All workers must complete fall protection training and demonstrate competency in using fall protection systems.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to discuss the fall protection plan, identify potential hazards, and review emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is free of debris and that all fall protection systems are in place and inspected before work begins.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Assess the Work Area

Identify all potential fall hazards.
Ensure all workers are aware of the location of unprotected edges and leading edges.

Step 2: Install Fall Protection Systems

Set up guardrail systems around the perimeter of the roof.
Install safety nets where guardrails are not feasible.
Ensure all anchorage points are secure and meet strength requirements.

Step 3: Use Personal Fall Arrest Systems

Attach the lanyard to the harness and secure it to an anchorage point.
Ensure the lanyard is the correct length to prevent a fall from reaching a lower level.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Use of Guardrails - Always install guardrails where feasible to prevent falls.
Weather Monitoring - Avoid working in adverse weather conditions.
Regular Inspections - Conduct regular inspections of all fall protection equipment.
Communication - Maintain clear communication among all workers on site.
Emergency Preparedness - Ensure all workers are familiar with emergency procedures.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Stop all work immediately.
Alert all workers and supervisors.
Follow the site-specific emergency response plan.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Fall Incident - Use rescue equipment to safely lower the worker to the ground.
Weather Emergency - Evacuate the roof and seek shelter.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause and implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M - Fall Protection [2]
Manufacturer's instructions for fall protection equipment

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]