Whether you have a flat roof or a sloped one, a commercial roof is brimming with unseen hazards that can cause anyone to slip and fall. Safety risks abound, from perimeter walls and skylights to decking to simple exposure to the natural elements. We advise you never to climb up on your business’ roof. Instead, call a professional roofer at Ferris Roofing for any inspections, repairs and maintenance tasks.
Nevertheless, it’s important to know what the hazards are when it comes to your commercial roof. Taking the proper precautions is critical, such as using all the right safety equipment, limiting the people who can access the roof, and giving those who are permitted the proper training to do their jobs.
Common Roofing Hazards
Unfortunately, many accidents result from many stories high, leading to hundreds of deaths every year, not to mention the number of non-lethal injuries that occur.
While commercial roofs are designed to protect the building’s contents and occupants, roofs are not meant to be walked on, which is why all roof repairs should be handled by a professional. Even then, extreme caution should be used, especially where metal panels and membranes are involved.
Commercial roofs are prone to a multitude of damages during inspections, repairs and maintenance. If the materials are weak in any way, simply walking across them can lead to even more damage. When working with roofing technicians, make sure they are trained properly in roof work. From drilling unnecessary holes to accidentally dropping tools on the roof, high levels of damage can occur with improper management.
Commercial roofers should be aware of the following:
- Ladders: If there is no other way to access your business’ roof, a ladder will have to be used. However, keep in mind, they can easily become unstable if not properly secured to the building.
- Skylights: While ideal for letting in natural light and saving on energy costs, skylights pose major risks when weight is placed on them. Plus, it’s fairly easy to trip on the raised edges.
- Loose debris: Commercial roofing is not designed to hold any extra loads of debris. Objects such as tree branches, construction materials and equipment can damage a commercial roof.
- High Temperatures: A roof that reflects heat can make it unbearable and even dangerous to work.
- Parapet walls: The risk of falling is greater if there are short barriers or no barriers along the roof ledge.
- Chemical exposure: Some commercial roofs can emit toxic fumes, including lead or asbestos. All workers should take proper precautions.
- Slippery conditions: The winter season is one of the most dangerous for roofers due to the ice and snow. As such, they can easily slip and take a tumble in a matter of seconds.
- Electrical work: Prior to accessing the roof, roofers should familiarize themselves with where the air vents, HVAC equipment, solar panels and surrounding power lines are.
Working with a Professional Roofing Company
If those are all hazards posed to experienced and trained roofing contractors, you can imagine what could happen if you as the business owner attempt to get up on the roof. This is why all repairs, inspections and maintenance should be done by a professional commercial roofing contractor.
Contact Ferris Roofing
Here at Ferris Roofing, our technicians have years of experience and training in all roofing work as well as all safety requirements. We’re licensed and insured, delivering quality results at a cost-effective price. To learn more about our commercial roofing services, contact us at 817-440-3767.