Everwhite

Roofline Roundup

Edward Leigh MP, Chairman of Public Accounts, in December 2004 stated: “The UK construction industry has a better health and safety record than other EU countries. But the industry’s record is still worse than in any other UK sector, and accounts for one in three fatalities from workplace accidents. It is simply unacceptable that 70 construction workers are killed each year and thousands more suffer major injuries.”

Over 14,000 serious injuries in construction were reported in the latest published statistics. These figures are frightening. And, these are just accident and injury statistics. They don’t even include the musculoskeletal disorders or the 3,500 deaths a year from exposure to asbestos.

For roofline installers the biggest risk is working at height. The government recognises falling from height in their ‘High 5’ leaflet aimed at small construction sites, businesses and individuals. It makes four key recommendations:

Work from a safe and secure platform with proper edge protection

Use scaffold or towers that are competently erected

Use powered access equipment safely

Protect holes and leading edges, eg with guard rails and toe boards

There are few exceptions in domestic roofline installation where working heights are below two metres. Gable ends can be even higher. And spanning over glazed conservatory roofs has its own set of problems. Making sure you have the proper access equipment is vital especially when erecting it on uneven ground. Domestic properties, unlike construction sites, are often more difficult to keep safe. Using scaffold towers over rockeries and sloping lawns, around bay windows and spanning garages, conservatories and extensions are all problems unique to the home. But it’s a false economy to save on rigid scaffolding where installers might be at risk.

All these guidelines are to keep you safe. But also remember to keep your customers safe too. Tell them not to come out while you are working in case something falls off the scaffolding. Make sure children don’t play on the scaffolding.

The penalties for employers and directors who do not take adequate care are also becoming more severe as society and the government make safety a high priority. The statistics for injury are frightening. Don’t take unnecessary risks and become one of them. Keep Safe.

Roof Line Round Up