Let’s face it: working on roofs is dangerous. In addition to routine workplace hazards, workers face the consistent risk of fatal falls and accidents. That’s why effective rooftop safety and fall protection is so important.
Typically, when people think of fall protection, they might imagine safety harnesses, lifelines, and other types of personal protective equipment (PPE). But did you know that employers can implement several other fall protection measures in addition to these systems? It’s true: installing handrails, guardrails, safety gates, and even modular work platforms can help create a comprehensive rooftop safety system that you can count on. In this post, we’ll explain how to take proper precautions when working on a roof and all the safety equipment you’ll need to protect your workers at every turn.
Common Rooftop Hazards
Uncontrolled edges are the most common hazard workers encounter when working on a rooftop. However, there are several other risks you should be aware of, including:
- Sloped or uneven surfaces
- Challenging weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice
- Cable trays, HVAC ducting & piping
- Parapet walls
Every rooftop will have different risks and challenges. That’s why it is important to assess your workplace and identify any potential hazards thoroughly. Review all your access points, unprotected edges, and common walking paths. Next, once you’ve determined where you need fall protection, partner with a trusted supplier like Northern Platforms. We’ll help make your rooftop safer, provide equipment suggestions, and offer turnkey installation services.
Beyond PPE: Guardrails, Safety Swing Gates and Modular Work Platforms
One of the best ways to work safely on a roof is to remove falling hazards wherever possible. In Canada, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety requires fall protection in any situation where workers could fall from a height of 3 metres (10 feet) or more. This includes the use of fixed barriers, surface opening protections, and warning barriers, in addition to PPE.
At Northern Platforms, we regularly recommend ErectaStep’s modular industrial platforms for safe access to your facility’s rooftop. These versatile, safe access solutions can be used to get over, around, or on top of rooftop obstacles, such as cable trays, HVAC systems, or pipes. Plus, since this system is modular, you can easily customize your walkways, crossover stairs, and work platforms to avoid the unique obstacles and challenges in your workplace.
Not sure where to start? As a certified ErectaStep supplier, the Northern Platforms team can design and build your rooftop access solution quickly, no matter how complex your needs. With our digital real-time configuration tool, we plan, draw, and quote your modular work platforms within minutes. Contact us today to get started!
Northern Platforms: Your Experts in Rooftop Safety
Ready to make your operations safer, smarter, and more efficient in 2025? As Western Canada’s trusted safe access equipment supplier, Northern Platforms is here to help. We’ve been helping companies with their safe access equipment and loading systems since 2002. No matter your needs, we have the expertise and know-how to craft a solution that integrates seamlessly into your site. Don’t wait to revolutionize your operations–schedule a site assessment today!