WAH/Roof Work/TBT-WAH-011

Roof Work Risk Assessment

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Roof Work Risk Assessment

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-WAH-011  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Roof work is the single largest cause of fatal falls from height in UK construction.
  • A specific risk assessment is required for every roof work activity before work begins.
  • The assessment must identify edge risks, fragile surfaces, and access arrangements.
  • The hierarchy of control requires collective protection before personal PPE.
  • Falls through fragile materials including cement sheets and roof lights are common.
  • The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require planning and competent supervision.
  • Weather — wind, rain, ice, and frost — significantly increases the risk of falls.
  • Emergency rescue procedures must be planned before anyone accesses the roof.
  • The assessment must be reviewed when conditions change or the scope alters.
  • Materials stored on roofs create additional slip, trip, and loading hazards.

Why?

Prevent fatal fallsFalls from roofs are the number one killer in UK construction.
Fragile surfacesWorkers fall through roof lights and fragile sheets due to inadequate assessment.
Legal requirementWork at Height Regulations require documented assessment for all roof work.
Control selectionThe assessment determines whether edge protection, nets, or harnesses are needed.
Do Don't
  • Complete a roof work risk assessment before anyone accesses the roof.
  • Identify all fragile surfaces, roof lights, and unprotected edges.
  • Specify collective protection measures as the first choice.
  • Plan safe access and egress routes to and from the roof.
  • Include a rescue plan for anyone who may fall.
  • Check weather conditions and set stop-work criteria for wind and ice.
  • Brief all roof workers on the assessment findings before starting.
  • Review the assessment if the work area or conditions change.
  • Ensure all roof workers are trained and competent for the task.
  • Confirm all control measures are in place before permitting access.
  • DON'T access any roof without a completed risk assessment.
  • DON'T assume a roof surface is non-fragile without checking.
  • DON'T rely on harnesses as the first control — use collective protection.
  • DON'T carry out roof work in high winds, heavy rain, or icy conditions.
  • DON'T allow roof access without briefing workers on the hazards.
  • DON'T use a generic assessment — it must be specific to each roof.
  • DON'T store excessive materials on the roof without checking load capacity.
  • DON'T work near unprotected edges without edge protection installed.
  • DON'T skip the rescue plan — falls need immediate planned response.
  • DON'T let unqualified workers carry out any roof work.

See also: Falls From Height Awareness | Edge Protection Requirements
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