As Fall settles in, so too do additional dangers that come with cooling weather, particularly, slip hazards from high places. In 2023, falls resulted in over 8 million trips to the ER in the United States, accounting for 21.3% of all visits (a leading cause). Of these, slips accounted for 12% of all fall-related injuries (over 1 million). During the fall season, additional hazards can increase the risk of these accidents on roofs.
One of the most significant hazards is leaves and other foliage, as when they are wet, they create a slippery surface and can cover up additional hazards on the ground. This is particularly dangerous when the dead leaf build-up is on commercial roofs. These leaves also keep moisture from dissipating, making walkways more slippery, and causing people to track more water indoors, creating hazards inside of entryways. In addition, leaves on these roofs clog up roof drains, gutters (downspouts), and scuppers (conductor heads), creating water plie up that is dangerous both for your roof and the people who walk on it.
An additional hazard is the plummeting temperatures, causing snow, sleet, and ice to build up, resulting in dangerous conditions that lead to increased injuries. For outdoor workers, particularly those in the roofing and construction industries, these slips can be fatal when falling from a higher level. Slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of workplace injuries during this season. PVC and TPO flat roofs are very dangerous in icy environments, “like walking on a frozen pond”. Ice can be hard to see because these membranes tend to be white, requiring cautious ‘side-steps’ to walk on the roofs. Ideally, a roofer or other technician on the roof can wait until the temperatures warm up enough to melt the ice before having to get on the roof.
These incidents can be reduced with a few straightforward strategies and tips that should be shared with both employers and employees.
- Wear appropriate footwear, including shoes with non-slip soles. If possible, wear roof-safe ice grips such as the one in the photo.
- When entering a building, be mindful of any water or slush you may have brought in, and clean it up when necessary. Be sure to remove any snow and ice from your footwear as well.
- If there is a work area where you feel is a slip, trip, or fall hazard, notify your manager immediately.
- Always monitor walk and outdoor work areas for any slippery conditions. Once identified, take steps to reduce the hazard such as shoveling snow, salting icy walkways, and posting warning signs.
- Make sure all handrails and banisters are secure, sturdy, and undamaged.
- Spot check for potential safety hazards such as potholes and cracks that may cause slips, trips, and falls.
- Check grate covers, catch basins, and drain pipes are not clogged with debris like leaves.
- Install roofing manufacturer-approved walk pads to make walking on the roofs safer – especially in cold months when ice may be a factor.
By being cautious and aware of Fall’s increased hazards, both employees and employers can prevent those on your roofs (such as your commercial roofer, HVAC technicians, electricians, Satellite employees, etc.) from getting injured from slips and falls.