Cal/OSHA launches roofer safety campaign

Oakland, CA – California’s occupational safety and health agency has launched a campaign aimed at protecting roofers from falls and other hazardous conditions.

The Roofing Maximum Enforcement Program is scheduled to run from March 1 to Nov. 1. It will feature targeted inspections of roofing operations to help ensure workers are provided the necessary training and safety equipment.

Falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries and deaths among California roofers, according to a Cal/OSHA press release, which stated that most falls can be avoided by following safety rules. During site visits, Cal/OSHA inspectors will check for the presence of railings on buildings and personal devices such as hooks on vests. Other areas of focus include electrical hazards and employers’ heat illness prevention programs.

“Cal/OSHA inspectors will carefully review safety measures at roofing operations and address safety issues they encounter,” Cal/OSHA Chief Juliann Sum said in the release. “Our goal is to raise awareness for on-the-job safety in the roofing industry so that hazards are identified and corrected.”