Working Safely Around Skylights and Roof Openings
The Problem
Skylights and roof openings are hidden hazards that many workers underestimate. Each year in Canada, workers are seriously injured or killed after falling through unprotected or poorly guarded openings. These incidents are 100% preventable when the proper safety procedures are followed. Today, we’ll focus on the risks of working around skylights and roof openings—and how to stay safe.
Identify the Hazards
- Falls Through Skylights: Uncovered or inadequately protected skylights can collapse under a person’s weight
- Falls Through Roof Openings: Unmarked or unguarded holes in the roof surface present a major fall hazard
- Tripping Hazards: Poor housekeeping around roof openings increases the risk of slipping or tripping near a fall hazard
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Here is your section rewritten in Canadian English and formatted into clear bullet points while preserving your original structure:
Inspect Skylights and Roof Openings
- Confirm all skylights have covers or safety barriers in place that meet structural strength requirements
- Ensure roof openings are surrounded by standard guardrails or have secure temporary coverings installed
Use Fall Protection
- Wear a properly fitted personal fall arrest system (PFAS) when working near skylights or roof edges
- Ensure your fall arrest system is anchored to a secure and rated anchorage point
Install and Maintain Covers
- Covers must be capable of withstanding at least twice the maximum expected load
- Ensure covers are clearly marked and secured to prevent accidental displacement
Mark Hazard Zones
- Clearly identify areas containing skylights or roof openings using hazard tape, barriers, or warning signs
- Review and discuss hazard zones during pre-start meetings and site briefings
Communicate with the Team
- Review the location of skylights and roof openings before starting work
- Make sure all team members are aware of the fall hazards and understand the control measures in place
Housekeeping
- Keep areas around skylights and roof openings free of tools, debris, and other trip hazards
- Maintain clear access to fall protection systems and barrier controls
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker stepped onto a skylight, mistakenly believing it was part of the solid roof. The skylight gave way, and the worker fell more than 4 metres, resulting in severe injuries. This incident could have been prevented with proper guarding and fall protection. Let’s ensure we don’t repeat these mistakes.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect skylight and roof opening protection before starting work
- Always wear fall protection when working near any unprotected openings
- Communicate the location of fall hazards with your team before beginning tasks
- Report any damaged or missing covers or guardrails to your supervisor immediately
Employer Responsibilities
Discussion & Questions
- “Have you encountered unprotected skylights or roof openings on-site? What was done to make them safe?”
- “What do you check first before working around a skylight or roof penetration?”
Encourage workers to raise concerns and share ideas for improving skylight and roof opening safety
Commitment/Action Plan
Starting today, let’s commit to inspecting skylight and roof opening protection before work begins. Wear your fall protection gear without exception, and speak up if you see any unprotected openings. These actions save lives.
Wrap-Up
Skylights and roof openings may seem like minor concerns—but they pose deadly risks. By staying alert, following proper procedures, and complying with CCOHS guidelines and provincial safety regulations, we can prevent falls and keep everyone on-site safe. Thank you for making safety your priority.
Standards Overview
Under Canadian occupational health and safety legislation and guidance from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS):
- All roof penetrations and skylights must be guarded, covered, or otherwise controlled to prevent falls
- Personal fall arrest systems must meet applicable CSA (Canadian Standards Association) standards and be used according to manufacturer instructions and provincial regulations
- Where temporary covers are used, they must be securely fastened, clearly marked, and strong enough to support at least twice the expected load
- CCOHS and provincial safety authorities provide detailed guidance on working safely around skylights and roof openings
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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