WORKING ON THE ROOF? HERE'S HOW TO DO IT SAFELY

Because it's better to be safe than sorry. While it's not necessarily wise to get up on your roof, there may be times when you need to make the climb to fix a slipped or broken tile or install a skylight, for instance

- 

If you want to do your own DIY jobs then you need this step by-step guide and checklist to make sure it all goes without a hitch. A safety harness may seem over the top, but one slip could have drastic consequences. Even if you're only up there briefly removing a branch, five minutes spent securing your safety is priceless.

Hazards associated with working on roofs

There are several potential hazards associated with working on roofs. Here are the most common ones:

Falls: Roofs are typically uneven, and it's easy to slip and fall. Falling off the roof is one of the most significant risks when working on a top.

Heat exhaustion: Working in the heat can lead to dehydration, sunburns, and even heat exhaustion.

Slippery surfaces: Wet or icy surfaces can make it easy to slip and fall.

Working with power tools: Power tools can be dangerous if not used properly.

Unstable structures: If the structure isn't stable, it could collapse when being worked on, resulting in injury or death.

Debris: Loose debris such as nails, screws, and other objects can cause injuries if not cleared away.

Electrical hazards: Electrical wiring or equipment can become dangerous if not handled carefully.

Falling objects: Loose materials or tools can drop off the roof and cause injury.

Poorly installed materials: Poorly installed materials, such as shingles or flashing, can make the roof unsafe to work on.

Unstable ladders: These can cause workers to lose their balance and fall.

Overhead hazards: Objects such as trees, power lines, and other overhead hazards can be hazardous if not considered when working on a roof.