Roof Work Safety: Tips for Preventing Falls
The Problem
Falls from roofs are one of the leading causes of fatalities in construction work. Whether it’s a small residential roof or a large commercial project, the risk remains the same. Unsafe practices, unprotected edges, and improper use of safety equipment can result in serious injuries or death. Today, we’ll discuss how to work safely on roofs and prevent falls by following best practices and guidelines from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS).
Identify the Hazards
- Unprotected Edges: Working near edges without guardrails or fall protection systems.
- Slippery Surfaces: Wet, icy, or dusty roofs increase the risk of slipping.
- Improper Use of Ladders: Accessing the roof using unstable or incorrectly positioned ladders.
- Improper Equipment Use: Using damaged or unsuitable fall protection gear, or failing to inspect it.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Use Proper Fall Protection
- Wear a full-body harness that fits properly and connect it to a certified anchor point.
- Ensure your fall arrest system is rated for your weight and the type of work being done.
- Always inspect fall protection equipment for damage or defects before use.
Guardrails and Warning Lines
- Install guardrails around unprotected edges where practicable, especially where work is conducted 3 metres (10 feet) or more above ground.
- Where guardrails aren’t feasible, use temporary warning lines or designated no-go zones to mark roof edges.
Safe Ladder Use
- Place ladders on firm, level ground and secure them to prevent movement.
- Ladders should extend at least 1 metre (3 feet) above the landing point.
- Regularly inspect ladders for signs of wear or damage.
Keep Roof Surfaces Clear
- Remove debris, tools, and loose materials from walking paths.
- Avoid working on roofs during wet, icy, or excessively windy conditions.
- Use slip-resistant footwear appropriate for roof surfaces.
Team Communication
- Use a spotter when working near roof edges.
- Maintain clear communication with your team and coordinate movements to reduce risks.
Training
- Ensure everyone working on roofs is trained in fall protection systems and understands the risks involved.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
In one incident, a worker fell 6 metres (20 feet) from a commercial roof while installing flashings. They were not wearing a harness and had no anchor point in place. The fall resulted in serious injuries that could have been prevented with a fall arrest system and a proper job hazard analysis before starting work.
Employee Responsibilities
- Always wear fall protection gear and inspect it before each use.
- Report any unsafe conditions — such as missing guardrails or damaged ladders — to your supervisor immediately.
- Follow all safety training and only perform tasks you are trained and competent to do.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide fall protection systems, such as harnesses, anchor points, guardrails, and edge protection.
- Ensure all workers are trained to identify and control hazards associated with roof work.
- Maintain and regularly inspect fall protection equipment.
- Develop and enforce a clear Safe Work Procedure or task-specific plan for roof work.
Discussion & Questions
- What fall hazards have you noticed while working on roofs?
- Does anyone have questions about using their fall protection gear?
- Has anyone witnessed or experienced a near-miss involving a fall? What could have prevented it?
Allow time for team members to share their experiences or concerns.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to always using fall protection when working at heights. Starting today, take five minutes before your next roofing task to inspect your harness and anchor points, and review your plan with your team.
Wrap-Up
Roof work is one of the highest-risk activities in construction, but it can be done safely. By following these safety practices and guidelines from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), we can reduce the risk of injury or death. Thank you for making safety a team effort.
Standards Overview
Under the Canada Labour Code and provincial/territorial occupational health and safety regulations:
- Fall protection is required for all work at heights of 3 metres (10 feet) or more.
- Employers must provide appropriate edge protection, fall restraint, or fall arrest systems.
- All workers must be trained in safe working-at-height practices in accordance with guidelines from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and applicable provincial standards.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
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