There are many reasons why someone may need to be on a rooftop. It could be for cleaning or roof maintenance but no matter what the task is, safety is a priority. Whether it’s at a construction site or on your house roof, you should look into every possible way to protect anyone that’s on your roof.
For this, there are many safety precautions that can be implemented such as roof anchor points and roof safety rails. However, if you’re trying to decide between the two, a roof safety rail could be the better option. For one thing, it rates higher on the hierarchy of control compared to some other roof safety equipment. Continue reading to find out why.
Roof safety rails – Providing unrivalled height safety and support
Roof railings are used for the same purpose as stair railings – to provide safety and support to users. It creates a physical barrier for people on the roof who may need to get close to the edge. With the help of the roof safety rail, anyone who is on the roof will feel safe while they work.
What is it made of?
Roof safety rails are typically manufactured from high-grade aluminium. The benefit of having a roof railing being made from aluminium is that it won’t corrode when exposed to rain and it’s UV resistant.
Another added benefit to a roof safety railing is you can get them custom-made. This is to give you the best in terms of safety as well as design. The railing won’t negatively affect the aesthetics of your house or building, even as a permanent fixture.
Why a permanent roof safety rail is the better option
When it comes to a permanent roof safety railing, it prevents anyone from getting too close to the edge and potentially falling off the elevated surface. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that anyone working on your rooftop won’t be at risk if they’re near the edge. The barrier from the roof railing will ensure they stay safe while working on the roof.
Of course, roof anchor points are also a piece of fall arrest equipment for fall protection that help to prevent someone from impacting after a fall has occurred. But the correct use of roof anchors determines their efficiency, meaning it’s rated differently than safety rails in terms of the hierarchy of control for working at heights. A roof safety rail is intended to prevent the fall from occurring, hence why it is rated highly in the hierarchy of control.
So, a roof anchor point may be your first thought when thinking about roof safety, but a permanent roof safety rail is more impressive when you’re using the higher hierarchy of control to guide your decisions. This makes it the best piece of height safety equipment in many instances.
Note: You’ll need to make sure that whatever safety equipment you choose is installed correctly as efficiency is not only about how it’s made but how it’s installed.
More height safety equipment to consider
You shouldn’t think of just one way to manage height safety as working at an extreme height is dangerous. Instead, you should consider as many options available to you as possible. This way the likelihood of an accident or fall happening is reduced dramatically. Here are a few other options:
- Roof walkways
- Roof platforms
- Static lines
- Roof ladders
- Roof access hatches
Having all of these options available helps you provide the best possible roof safety no matter who is going onto the rooftop. Accidents can happen at any point, so make sure you’ve covered all your bases which includes safety gear. Ensure that your crew is wearing the correct safety gear on-site and on rooftops.
Remove the danger for anyone that needs to be on the rooftop of your house or building by installing roof safety railing.
Do you need a permanent roof safety rail installed on your building? Contact Austral Height Safety today for your height safety needs!
