Safe Work Procedure: Working on a Roof

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

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safe practices for working on roofs, including installation, maintenance, and repair activities. It applies to all employees and contractors working at heights on roofs, particularly those with unguarded edges or steep slopes.

This procedure is applicable in environments where fall hazards exist due to unprotected sides and edges, and where weatherproofing or other roofing activities are performed.

Consult related procedures such as the Fall Protection Plan and Emergency Response Plan in conjunction with this SWP.

2. Definitions

Control Zone
An area on a roof where additional fall protection measures are required.

Safety Monitor
A competent person responsible for recognizing and warning employees of fall hazards.

Travel Restraint System
A system designed to prevent a worker from reaching an unguarded edge.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure all workers are trained and competent in roof work and fall protection.
• Conduct regular inspections of the work area and equipment.
• Enforce compliance with this SWP and related safety regulations.

3.2 Workers

• Follow all safety procedures and use required PPE.
• Report any unsafe conditions or incidents to the supervisor immediately.
• Participate in safety training and pre-job briefings.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Monitor compliance with safety procedures.
• Assist in the investigation of incidents and near-misses.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falls from height	Serious injury or death	Use of guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems [1]
Slipping or tripping	Minor to serious injury	Keep work area clean and free from debris [2]
Weather conditions	Reduced visibility or surface traction	Monitor weather conditions and cease work if unsafe [3]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to ensure safety while working on roofs.

• Hard Hat - Protects against head injuries from falling objects.
• Safety Harness - Used with a fall arrest system to prevent falls.
• Non-slip Footwear - Provides traction on roof surfaces.
• Safety Glasses - Protects eyes from debris and glare.
• Gloves - Protects hands from cuts and abrasions.

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the right equipment and tools is crucial for safety.

• Ladders - Ensure they are stable and secure before use.
• Roof Anchors - Must be capable of supporting the required loads [3].
• Warning Lines - Erected to indicate safe work zones [4].
• Hoisting Equipment - Used for lifting materials safely to the roof [5].
• Safety Nets - Installed under work areas to catch falling workers or materials [4].

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in fall protection systems and roof work procedures.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and safety measures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, and all safety systems are in place before starting work.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Accessing the Roof

Ensure safe access to the roof using ladders or scaffolding.

• Secure ladders at the top and bottom.
• Use scaffolding where necessary.
• Inspect access points for stability.

Step 2: Setting Up Fall Protection

Install and verify fall protection systems before beginning work.

• Set up guardrails or warning lines [4].
• Ensure personal fall arrest systems are properly anchored [3].
• Use a safety monitor if required [3].

Step 3: Performing Roof Work

Conduct roofing tasks while adhering to safety protocols.

• Keep tools and materials organized.
• Avoid working near edges without protection.
• Communicate with team members effectively.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Weather Monitoring - Cease work during adverse weather conditions.
• Edge Awareness - Stay aware of roof edges and maintain a safe distance.
• Communication - Use clear signals and communication devices.
• Tool Management - Secure tools to prevent them from falling.
• Emergency Preparedness - Know the location of first aid kits and emergency exits.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In case of an emergency, cease work immediately and follow the emergency response plan.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Fall Incident - Use fall arrest system to safely lower the worker.
• Severe Weather - Evacuate the roof and seek shelter.
• Injury - Provide first aid and contact emergency services.

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. Investigate incidents to determine causes and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

• General Regulation (N.B. Reg. 91-191) [3]
• Occupational Health and Safety Code [2]
• Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (OSHA) [1]

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

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