Roof work is one of the highest-risk activities in UK construction, accounting for a significant proportion of fatal falls from height each year. A thorough risk assessment must be completed before any person accesses a roof, covering fragile surfaces, edge protection, weather conditions, and rescue arrangements. This talk explains the risk assessment process and the planning steps required before roof work begins.
Key Hazards
Fatal falls from unprotected roof edges or through fragile surfaces
Fragile roof coverings failing under foot traffic without prior assessment
Weather conditions deteriorating and creating unsafe working conditions on the roof
Inadequate rescue planning leaving injured workers stranded at height
Control Measures
Complete a site-specific risk assessment for every roof work activity before access is permitted.
Identify all fragile surfaces and ensure they are covered, marked, or barriered before work begins.
Select collective fall protection such as edge protection or safety netting as the first-choice control.
Prepare a rescue plan specific to the roof layout and access arrangements before work starts.
Check the weather forecast and set wind speed and rain limits for the planned roof activities.
Brief all operatives on the risk assessment findings, controls, and rescue plan before accessing the roof.
Ensure a safe means of access to the roof is provided such as a scaffold stair tower or fixed ladder.
Review the assessment if roof conditions change during the work or a new hazard is identified.
Record the assessment in writing and retain it in the project safety file for future reference.
Emergency / Rescue
If a worker falls on a roof and cannot self-rescue, activate the rescue plan immediately. Do not improvise a rescue. Call 999 if the casualty is injured and keep them warm while awaiting emergency services.
Remember
A site-specific risk assessment must be completed before anyone accesses any roof area
All fragile surfaces must be identified, covered, or barriered before roof work begins
Collective fall protection such as edge protection is always the first-choice control measure
A rescue plan specific to the roof layout must be prepared before any work starts at height
Check the weather forecast and set clear wind and rain limits for all planned roof activities
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · CDM Regulations 2015 · HSE ACR[PS] Advisory Committee Guidance · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974