Getting the Job Done

Roofing Safety

Environment

Roofing jobs should ideally be performed during dry, mild weather. Rain, ice or wind not only cause a roof or ladder to become slick and dangerous, but can ruin roofing materials. Underlayment, when wet, wrinkles, and needs to be dried before applying the shingles. The roof's wood deck needs to be dry before applying underlayment. Even morning dew poses a risk against the roofer, so be sure to check that the roof surface, all equipment and materials are dry before beginning a job, and that there is no risk of rain or high winds that day.

Cold weather guidelines:

•  Traffic on the roof should be avoided as ice, snow and frost make the surface hazardous and can also cause shingles to break or crack.
•  When removing snow, avoid direct contact with the shingles as this will scrape off the protective granules.
•  When applying shingles in temperature below 0°C (32 °F), handle the product with care as the shingles become more brittle. Never force or drop shingles in cold weather as they may crack or break.
•  If shingles are installed during the colder months, the tabs of the shingles should be sealed down manually using BP Multi-Purpose Plastic Cement as the sun is not warm enough to activate the adhesive strips.

Maintain a safe distance from power lines, and ensure neither your body nor any equipment come in contact with them. When in doubt, contact your power utility to have the power lines insulated or de-energized.

Clothing

Wear comfortable clothing that you can easily move around with and work in for extended periods of time. Rubber-soled boots should be worn to provide traction. A hat for sun protection is also prudent. If the job requires you to remove fiberglass insulation, wear goggles and a respirator for added protection.

Ladder Safety

Inspect the ladder for defects and secure it by placing it on a firm, level surface. If the ladder is standing on a slick surface, make sure to have rubber safety shoes installed. The distance between the wall and foot of the ladder should be ¼ of the wall's height. The ladder should extend above the eaves by one meter (approximately 3 ¼ feet). Always ensure both hands and one foot are on the ladder while ascending or descending. Use of a CSA approved ladder is recommended.

Fall Protection

Keep the roof clean from debris such as wood, shingle parts and dirt. Be aware of loose items such as electrical cords and tools, and if possible, keep them off the roof at all times. Fall-restraint systems, that include a harness or belt attached to an anchor, are also available for use on steep roofs.

Avoid walking on the roof when not necessary as this may cause even more damage and increase your risk of falling. Avoid old, rotted wood decks. Very steep roofs should be repaired by a professional.

NOTE: This is a general safety guide to roofing. If you are unsure about anything, don't risk your well-being, please click here to contact a roofing professional in your area.