Roofing
Roofers have one of the highest fatality rates of any trade, mostly from falls. Hot materials, torches, heavy bundles and summer heat add to the risk.
- Construction
Photo: roofer tied off to a roof anchor on a steep-slope roof
Top hazards
- Falls from edges, through skylights and openings, and from ladders
- Burns from hot asphalt kettles and torch-applied membranes; roof fires
- Heat illness on hot roofs
- Struck by falling materials and debris
- Strains from carrying bundles up ladders
- Power lines near roof edges and hoists
Key practices
- Use the right fall protection for the roof type. See Working on Roofs.
- Install the first roof anchor from a safe position before getting on the roof.
- Cover or guard skylights and openings.
- Use ladder hoists, conveyors or boom trucks to land materials, not your shoulders.
- Keep kettles attended, away from exits, with an extinguisher nearby. Follow hot work rules for torches.
- Use debris chutes and barricade the area below.
- Start early in summer, drink water often and take shade breaks.
Types of roofing work
| Roof type | Special hazards |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles (residential) | Steep pitch, heavy bundles, nail guns, ladder carries |
| Built-up roofing (hot tar) | Kettles at high temperatures, fumes, burns |
| Torch-applied modified bitumen | Roof fires that start under the membrane or in the deck |
| Single-ply (TPO, EPDM, PVC) | Adhesive vapors, hot-air welders, slippery membranes |
| Metal roofing | Sharp edges, slippery panels, wind catching sheets |
| Tear-off | Debris, weak decking, possible asbestos in old roofing |
Torch safety
- Never torch directly onto wood decks, near openings or into gaps where flame can reach hidden combustibles.
- Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and maintain a fire watch after torching ends. Roof fires can smolder for hours.
- Store propane cylinders upright and away from the work area. See Propane.
Heat
Roof surfaces can be much hotter than the air. New roofers who aren’t used to the heat are at highest risk in their first week. Build up gradually, drink water every 15 to 20 minutes, rest in shade, and watch each other for signs of heat illness. See Heat Illness.
Start-of-day checklist
- Fall protection plan for this roof set up before anyone goes on
- Skylights and openings covered or guarded
- Ladders extended 3 feet and tied off
- Material hoist or delivery planned
- Debris chute and barricade below
- Extinguisher and fire watch plan for hot work
- Water, shade and break schedule set
Standards & references
- 29 CFR 1926.501(b)(10)–(11): Roofing work
- OSHA: Stop Falls
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