9 Safety Precautions from a Marietta Roofer

5 years ago

Working on roofs can be risky business. If you are not financially positioned to hire a professional roofing in Marietta, GA or if you just prefer doing your own roofing services, please practice these basic roofing safety tips.

#1 – Exposure

Both extreme heat and extreme cold can create serious health hazards. Dress according to the temperature. On hot days, plan your work hours to coincide with the cooler or shady times of day. On cold days, strive to catch the sunrays.

# 2 – Slips and Tumbles

Wet roofs are slick. Get in the habit of avoiding wet roofs. When possible use a bucket truck for shingle transport. Practice utilizing safety-climbing gear, roofing jacks, and ladder jacks.

# 3 – Skin Risks

When considering roof related risks to skin, the talk often involves sunburn or scrapes and cuts. These are the common risk, but exist also the long-term risks of possible skin cancer. Use sunscreen. Wear clothing that helps reduce windburn. A hat protects the head. Safety sunglasses protect the eyes.

# 4 – Creatures With Stingers

The risk of falling from a roof or a ladder can be greatly compounded by an unexpected encounter with a nest of wasps. Yellow jackets, once disturbed, can inflict multiple painful stings and will chase the nest offender as far as 200 to 300 yards. Never begin work without surveying the area for signs of hives and nests. If any nest is present, take preventive measure before attempting to work on the roof.

# 5 – Rotted Roofs

Survey the work area. Test for any weak sections of sheathing. When forced to walk upon a rotted roof, utilize planks and the existing rafters. Work from a bucket truck if that is at all possible.

# 6 – Electrical Hazards

Improperly insulated electrical wires can be deadly to a roofer. Even wires that appear to be correctly shielded can present a serious chance of electrocution. Do not work near electrical wires without installing the proper insulator blankets before the job begins.

# 7 – Hand Tools

Accidents happen. Every roofer has experienced his or her share of minor cuts, smashes, and pinches. Some have even endured severed fingers. Take care of your tools. Perform routine inspections of your equipment. Always wear safety glasses.

# 8 – Power Tools

Set power nail guns and Air Nailers require additional attention to details. Work away from yourself and others. Always wear safety glasses. Avoid awkward positions during the setting process. Keep watch for flying debris.

# 9 – Metal Flashings

This material is sharp and quick to cut the careless roofer. Wear gloves. Fold any cut edges to reduce the risk of skin lacerations. Wear eye protection at all times.

These tips are designed to help the do-it-yourself roofer work in safety.

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