Working Safely Around Skylights and Roof Openings
The Problem
Skylights and roof openings are hidden hazards that many workers underestimate. Each year in New Zealand, workers are seriously injured or killed after falling through unprotected or poorly guarded openings. These incidents are 100% preventable when the right 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 openings increases the chance of slipping or tripping near a fall risk.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
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 in place.
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 able to withstand at least twice the maximum expected load.
- Ensure covers are clearly marked and fixed in place to prevent accidental displacement.
Mark Hazard Zones:
- Clearly mark areas containing skylights or roof openings using hazard tape, barriers, or warning signs.
- Discuss hazard zones during pre-start meetings and site briefings.
Communicate with the Team:
- Review the location of skylights and openings before work begins.
- Make sure everyone on the team knows the location of fall hazards and understands the control measures in place.
Housekeeping:
- Keep work areas around skylights and openings clear of tools, debris, and trip hazards.
- Maintain clear access to fall protection systems and hazard barriers.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker stepped onto a skylight, assuming it was part of the roof. The skylight gave way, and the worker fell over 4 metres, suffering severe injuries. This 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.
- Report damaged or missing covers or guardrails to your supervisor immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide fall protection systems and barriers compliant with WorkSafe NZ and AS/NZS 1891 standards.
- Supply and maintain properly rated covers and guardrails for all roof openings.
- Train workers in fall protection use and conduct regular site inspections to identify new or evolving hazards.
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 correct procedures, and complying with WorkSafe NZ guidelines, we can prevent falls and keep everyone on-site safe. Thank you for making safety your priority.
Standards Overview
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) and WorkSafe NZ guidance:
- All roof penetrations and skylights must be guarded, covered, or controlled to prevent falls.
- Personal fall arrest systems must comply with AS/NZS 1891.
- Where temporary covers are used, they must be clearly marked, secured, and strong enough to support at least twice the expected load.
- WorkSafe NZ’s “Good Practice Guidelines for Working on Roofs” provides detailed information on managing these hazards.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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