Roof access hatches serve numerous functions in large buildings, allowing workers to reach rooftops via ladders or stairs. As such, safety regulations must be put in place to keep people safe.
Installing guard rails at the opening of a roof hatch is one key measure to provide complete fall protection on a roof. Learn about the roof access hatches safety standards.
Lifting Mechanisms
Roof hatches can include lifting mechanisms designed to minimise physical exertion for opening and closing them, with several manufacturers offering these devices that include spring cylinders that extend approximately 6 inches above their access hatch covers.
Lifting mechanisms must be strong enough to accommodate a worker standing on a ladder or steps as they enter or exit a hatch, thus eliminating the need for both hands to be free while also avoiding accidental falls into openings that could cause debilitating injuries.
Local building codes may require guard rails around the edge of a hatch to decrease the chances of someone tripping and falling while entering or exiting.
Gas-Charged Opening Devices
Roof hatches typically feature polycarbonate dome covers that let natural light into a building, potentially lowering energy costs while making employees’ workspaces more pleasant. Furthermore, louvres may be added for ventilation purposes or special finishes are offered for corrosion resistance or aesthetic purposes – stainless steel is often chosen in chemical plants, while copper keeps historical districts looking their best.
Rooftop workers at an increased risk from working around open hatches when working from rooftops are vulnerable to falling through them; according to OSHA guidelines, any open roof opening should have protective guardrails to prevent potential falls.
Building owners and managers must understand the regulations and options available to them for complying with OSHA standards and liability concerns regarding roof access hatches. Our team of fall safety experts can assist them in choosing an effective solution. Learn about the roof access hatches safety standards.
Self-Closing Gates
Roof access hatches are often utilised in commercial and industrial facilities as an entryway into rooftop maintenance for maintenance workers. Since these individuals often need to access this access hatch while standing on ladders or stairs with tools, the hatch must open and close smoothly to prevent accidental slamming shut.
Self-closing gates provide the most effective solution to this issue as they take the decision-making power away from users and help prevent accidental falls. Spring-loaded and automatic swing-shut gates automatically close whenever someone exits a hatchway, creating a safe barrier around people that needs protecting.
OSHA regulations stipulate that roof openings – hatches and holes alike – be protected with guardrails to comply with OSHA standards. Our team can assist in assessing areas of concern to find solutions to meet compliance requirements.
Safety Hinges
Safety hinges provide an easy solution to meeting fall protection regulations by preventing hatches from abruptly opening or closing on workers, thus avoiding unexpected closures while workers are on rooftops that could result in serious injuries. Learn about the roof access hatches safety standards.
How employees access roofs can determine the optimal hatch size. If workers use ladders to climb onto the roof, the hatch may need to be larger to accommodate its rungs.
Maintenance professionals often have tools or parts in their hands when opening hatches, so the lifting mechanisms must be designed for smooth operation to prevent sudden closure of the cover slamming closed on someone. An effective mechanism is a cablock and internal padlock tabs that lock into place when opened. The SRHP range of roof access hatches utilises this mechanism, with gas spring assistance that adheres to manual handling guidelines.
Grab bars
The type of grab bar used will depend on the application. For example, ADA guidelines require continuous grab bars in public locations, such as behind toilets and beside showers, but they don’t prescribe a style. In fact, grab bars are now available in a wide range of finishes and styles, including designer curved bar models that blend into bathroom decor.
P0-If a worker falls through an existing roof opening, it could result in severe injury or death. It is why it’s essential to follow OSHA rules and install guardrails around holes and openings in a roof. Some products are specifically designed for use with ladders, including ladder safety posts and railing extensions. They are mounted to the top two rungs of fixed ladders and provide steady handholds to help workers maintain a balanced position.