Roofers are faced with daily hazards on the job site. Tripping on a roof, falling off a ladder, malfunctioning power tools and other problems can result in injury or death. However, the most common causal factor is falling off a roof. Working to prevent such incidents are employers and government officials who mandate roof fall protection systems.
What Are Roof Fall Protection Systems?
The name is indicative of the purpose. A roofing fall protection system is installed to prevent falls from occurring when workers are performing their tasks atop the roofs of buildings or other elevated structures. Federal guidelines dictate the use of specific systems and/or equipment. However, it is up to the employer to ensure they are installed correctly and used.
What Are the Basic Components of Roof Fall Protection Systems?
Fall protection systems usually comprise three basic components. These are
- Guardrail systems: These are installed around the roof’s border
- Safety nets: Webbed or mesh net structures are hung just below a roof site or skylight. If a worker falls, it catches him/her
- Personal fall arrest (PFA) systems: These are the most recognized forms of roof fall protection systems. Roofers wear these body harnesses attached to a roof anchor using a lanyard.
This basic equipment is essential to ensure workers safely, returning home unharmed at the end of the day. It reduces the risks of accidents and injuries – but only if the right equipment is supplied and the workers are trained in how to use it.
Fall Protection Distributors offer the highest quality of both fall protection equipment and standing seam roof anchor products. If you want to get the job done safely, contact them online at
