Within the past year and a half, there have been several new rooftop safety standards added. To make it easier to become compliant, we have listed the top 5 that you should be taking immediate action to remedy.
1) Certification of Anchorages
Due by November 20, 2017 [Section 1910.27(b)(1)]
How to Become Compliant:
Anchorage points should be certified by a qualified person. This will ensure that your anchorage points are up to current standards and in the appropriate locations for frequent use. Having certified anchorage points will provide the optimal level of contractor and worker safety when they are accessing and working on rooftops.
2) Must Equip Existing Fixed Ladders with a Cage, Well, Ladder Safety System, or Personal Fall Arrest System
Due by November 19, 2018 [Section 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(A)]
How to Become Compliant:
Rooftop Guardrail: Rooftop guardrail can be placed around the top of the fixed access ladder to protect users when entering and exiting a rooftop. RoofGuard by Liftsafe is a non-penetrating rooftop guardrail system, designed to eliminate the potential hazard from rooftop falls. With simplicity in mind when developed, this rooftop guardrail system can be quickly and easily assembled and installed onto most rooftops.
RoofGuard Restraint Anchor: Restraint Anchors enable workers to safely work near the leading edge. For example, the RoofGuard Restraint Anchor by Liftsafe is designed specifically for individuals working near the roof edge. This portable system is a non-penetrating counterweight anchor and allows for users to have the flexibility needed to place anchor points exactly where they need them. This system will allow for safe work near the roof edge to occur and can be attached to the user’s lanyard.
Install a Ladder Cage: Ladder cages offer a safe way to reach your rooftop. They can often be engineered and custom fabricated for your specific application needs.
3) Must Begin Equipping New Fixed Ladders with Ladders Safety System or Personal Fall Arrest
Due by November 19, 2018 [Section 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(B)]
How to Become Compliant:
Rooftop Guardrail: Rooftop guardrail can be placed around the top of the fixed access ladder to protect users when entering and exiting a rooftop. RoofGuard by Liftsafe is a non-penetrating rooftop guardrail system, designed to eliminate the potential hazard from rooftop falls. With simplicity in mind when developed, this rooftop guardrail system can be quickly and easily assembled and installed onto most rooftops.
RoofGuard Restraint Anchor: Restraint Anchors enable workers to safely work near the leading edge. For example, the RoofGuard Restraint Anchor by Liftsafe is designed specifically for individuals working near the roof edge. This portable system is a non-penetrating counterweight anchor and allows for users to have the flexibility needed to place anchor points exactly where they need them. This system will allow for safe work near the roof edge to occur and can be attached to the user’s lanyard.
Install a Ladder Cage: Ladder cages offer a safe way to reach your rooftop. They can often be engineered and custom fabricated for your specific application needs.
4) Fixed Ladders Must be Equipped with a Ladder Safety System or Personal Fall Arrest System
Due by November 18, 2036 [Section 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(D)]
How to Become Compliant:
Rooftop Guardrail: Rooftop guardrail can be placed around the top of the fixed access ladder to protect users when entering and exiting a rooftop. RoofGuard by Liftasafe is a non-penetrating rooftop guardrail system, designed to eliminate the potential hazard from rooftop falls. With simplicity in mind when developed, this rooftop guardrail system can be quickly and easily assembled and installed onto most rooftops.
RoofGuard Restraint Anchor: Restraint Anchors enable workers to safely work near the leading edge. For example, the RoofGuard Restraint Anchor by Liftsafe is designed specifically for individuals working near the roof edge. This portable system is a non-penetrating counterweight anchor and allows for users to have the flexibility needed to place anchor points exactly where they need them. This system will allow for safe work near the roof edge to occur and can be attached to the user’s lanyard.
Install a Ladder Cage: Ladder cages offer a safe way to reach your rooftop. They can often be engineered and custom fabricated for your specific application needs.
5) Must Train Employees on Fall and Equipment Hazards
Due by May 17, 2017 [Section 1910.30(a)and(b)]
How to Become Compliant:
To become compliant employees must receive regular training to understand any potential hazards that they may encounter when working on rooftops and have working equipment.
Bonus: Fixed Access Ladder Inspections
Make sure your fixed access ladders have their annual inspections and are regularly maintained to ensure that your contractors and employees will be safe when they use them.