Roof lights and skylights are fragile surfaces that cannot support a person's weight. They are a leading cause of fatal falls through roofs on UK construction sites. Many are difficult to see when dirty, painted over, or covered by insulation. Protecting every roof light before anyone accesses the roof is a legal requirement. This talk explains the protection methods available and the rules every operative must follow.
Key Hazards
Fatal falls through roof lights that appear solid but cannot bear weight
Roof lights hidden by dirt, moss, or paintwork giving no visual warning
Temporary covers dislodged by wind or foot traffic exposing the opening
Workers stepping onto unprotected skylights during adjacent roof activities
Control Measures
Identify every roof light and skylight from the building plans and a physical roof survey before access.
Install permanent or temporary covers over all roof lights strong enough to support a person's weight.
Secure covers against displacement using fixings or weighted edges — not just placed loosely on top.
Mark all covered roof lights with high-visibility warning signs visible from the working surface.
Install guard rails around any roof light that cannot be fully covered due to access requirements.
Brief all operatives on the number and exact locations of roof lights before anyone accesses the roof.
Inspect roof light covers daily and after adverse weather to confirm they remain secure and visible.
Assume any translucent panel in a roof is fragile until a competent person confirms otherwise.
Never step on or place loads directly onto any roof light, covered or otherwise.
Emergency / Rescue
If someone falls through a roof light, call 999 immediately. Do not walk on the same roof surface to reach them. Access the casualty from below using a safe route and administer first aid while awaiting the ambulance.
Remember
Every roof light must be covered with a load-bearing protector before anyone accesses the roof
Covers must be fixed securely against displacement and not just placed loosely over the opening
Mark all protected roof lights with high-visibility warning signs visible from the working surface
Assume all translucent roof panels are fragile until a competent person confirms they are safe
Never step on or place any load onto a roof light whether it is covered or not
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · CDM Regulations 2015 · HSE ACR[PS] Advisory Committee Guidance · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974