Matt Savin, FRSA-SIF Safety Rep
A steep-sloped roof is designed with a pitch that allows water and debris to shed quickly. According to OSHA, a steep-slope is defined as any roof with a pitch greater than 4:12. This category includes many residential properties as well as certain commercial structures. Notably, OSHA’s fall protection requirements do not vary based on the type of building or the roofing material used – any steep-slope falls under the same safety guidelines.
While there are fewer choices for steep-sloped roofing than for low-sloped surfaces, fall protection is still required whenever work is being performed. The most common options include:
Guardrail systems must include:
■ A top rail positioned 45 inches, give or take three inches, above the walking surface.
■ A midrail and toe board.
■ Structural integrity capable of withstanding a 200-pound force in any direction.
■ Smooth construction to prevent injury from sharp edges or protrusions.
Though it is not common on roofing projects, safety nets can be highly effective. They must:
■ Be installed as close as possible to the work area, never more than 30 feet below.
■ Provide sufficient clearance to prevent contact with structures or objects beneath.
■ Be drop-tested with a 400-pound weight upon installation, relocation or every six months.
■ Have all caught debris removed promptly – no later than the start of the next shift.
PFAS is often the most common – but also the most frequently misused – form of fall protection. A complete system includes:
■ Full-body harness: It must fit properly and be fully secured to prevent an employee from slipping out in the event of a fall.
■ Lanyard: Connects the harness to the horizontal lifeline, adjusted to minimize fall distance. OSHA limits free falls to six feet.
■ Horizontal lifeline: Must have a breaking strength of at least 5,000 pounds and attach to the anchor with a double-locking snap hook.
■ Anchorage point: Rated for a minimum of 5,000 pounds per person. Multi-user anchors exist but are less common and standard single-user anchors should only support one worker at a time. Proper installation with the manufacturer’s specified fasteners or equivalent is required.
While each option has advantages and limitations, the selection should be based on the specific jobsite conditions, roof design and task requirements. Proper training, inspection and installation are essential for ensuring compliance and worker safety. For more specific information, visit www.osha.gov/fall-protection.
Interested in obtaining workers’ comp insurance? Contact Alexis at BrightFund by phone at 800-767-3772 ext. 206 or by email at alexis@brightfund.com.