CPWR publishes tip sheets on preventing roofer falls

Silver Spring, MD — Two new resources from CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training are intended to help prevent falls among roofing workers.

In “Roofing Safety for Construction Workers,” available in English and Spanish, CPWR cites Bureau of Labor Statistics data showing that 1 out of 10 fatal slips, trips and falls involve roofers – 3 out of 5 of whom are Hispanic.

The organization calls on employers to:

• Eliminate or minimize fall hazards during job planning, when possible.
• Provide workers with proper tools and safety equipment to safely complete tasks.
• Train workers on inspection and use of safety equipment in a language they understand.
• Enforce safety regulations.
• Regularly review work practices that help prevent falls.

An additional CPWR fact sheet – Roof Safety: Weather to Work? – provides guidance on working safely in inclement weather. Tips include:

• Ensure workers are trained on fall protection and wearing proper personal protective equipment.
• Monitor weather conditions before work and throughout the day.
• Inspect the roof for icy, wet or slippery conditions before work starts.
• Have a plan to provide workers with cover from lightning.
• Find a stable, nonslippery surface to set up and secure a ladder.

A Spanish version of the weather-related resource is in development, CPWR says.