Roofing Law

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Ladder Safety

Is your jobsite using ladders safely? Working in the roofing industry can be lucrative, but very dangerous. Roofing employers must be sure that the jobsite is set up to encourage safety. Ladder safety consists of selecting the right ladders and safely using and maintaining them. If ladder safety is neglected, the following can cause ladder-related accidents.

  • Wearing the wrong footwear
  • Using damaged ladders
  • Lack of training and attention
  • Failing to stabilize the ladder

Ladder Fall Protection

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to provide a stairway or ladder for breaks in elevation of 19 inches or more when there is no available ramp, runway, embankment, or hoist or when there is only one point of access. Every work should understand load support, proper storage, and spacing for rungs, cleats, and steps. Additionally, periodic ladder inspection and training sessions should be held. Before work begins, ladder fall protection equipment should be in place. Roofers will require equipment such as guardrail systems, safety net systems, and fall arrest systems. Roofers are also allowed to use controlled access zones, positioning devices, and warning lines.

Complying With OSHA

Are you fostering a safe and healthy work environment? Employers will foster a safe and healthy work environment by doing the following:

  • Training workers to recognize hazards
  • Training workers on proper ladder usage
  • Protect workers from falling objects
  • Provide proper protective gear (i.e., eye, face, head)

Ladder Safety Tips

Safe and efficient use of ladders requires users to practice proper safety habits. The key is to think before you climb. The following ladder safety tips will help prevent unnecessary injuries or death:

  • Set-up the ladder according to safety instructions and warnings.
  • Inspect the ladder before using
  • Select the right ladder for the task you are performing
  • Use caution when carrying anything on a ladder
  • Request assistance when moving a heavy ladder and when climbing
  • Use ladder on firm, level surface
  • Always climb facing the ladder with two hands and one foot or one hand and both feet in contact with the ladder
  • Do not use ladders in high winds or storms
  • Wear slip-resistant shoes

How We Help Clients

It can be overwhelming to know and understanding every law, rest assured that our attorneys have an intimate understanding of OSHA law. We help clients manage critical legal issues, and increase workplace safety. On the behalf of our clients, we respond to citations and provide representation at both the local and regional level at informal conferences. We specialize in serious, repeat, and willful OSHA violations and guide clients during the inspection process.

If you would like to speak with one of our roofing lawyers, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.