Safety
Safety is of the utmost importance.
Roofing is challenging and dangerous if you don't have the proper training or safety equipment. Hazards include, but are not limited to, electrical lines, cutting with sharp objects, slippery surfaces, strenuous work at difficult angles, climbing ladders, working at tall heights, wasp nests, uncovering hazardous materials and heat stroke. The two main causes for concern are falling off the roof and falling off the ladder.
Remember:
- Always maintain a three-point (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) contact on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing.
- Roofs are slippery, use the proper footwear.
- Invest in some safety gear, harness, ropes and roof anchors.
- Work slowly and carefully, be prepared.
- Call a professional roofing contractor instead, it may be cheaper in the long run.
Below are some resource regarding safety:
- U.S. Department of Labor – OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration)
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Protecting human health, safeguarding the environment)
- National Safety Council
- Ladder Safety (American Ladder Institute)
Have a question? AskARoofer.
