Osha Low Slope Roof Requirements

A low sloped roof is defined as a slope equal or less than a ratio of 4 to 12.

Osha low slope roof requirements.

Slope is calculated by rise over run thus a low sloped roof is a roof where for every 12 units inches feet or meters measured horizontally run the roof does not increase or decrease by. Roof slope osha defines a low slope roof as a roof having a slope of less than or equal to 4 inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches horizontal length 4 12 1926 500 b definitions. 1910 28 b 13 i when work is performed less than 6 feet 1 6 m from the roof edge the employer must ensure each employee is protected from falling by a guardrail system safety net system travel restraint system or personal fall arrest system. The extremely high danger zone less than six feet from the roof s edge requires one of the following.

Low slope roof 4 12 slope or less 29 cfr 1926 501 b 10. As explained below the answer is no. Work on low slope roofs. Osha is adding this provision to make the general industry standard more consistent with the construction fall protection standard which includes a provision addressing roofing work performed on low slope roofs 1926 501 b 10.

Each employee on a steep roof with unprotected sides and edges 6 feet 1 8 m or more above lower levels shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems with toeboards safety net systems or personal fall arrest systems. This is important because the osha definition is used as a basis for implementing low slope fall protection measures such as warning. Osha walking working surfaces standard low sloped roof fall protection defined. Final paragraph b 13 is a new provision that establishes fall protection requirements when employees perform work on low slope roofs.

Osha s fall protection standard for construction 29 cfr part 1926 subpart m beginning at 1926 500 generally requires fall protection when there is a fall distance of 6 feet or more. Osha has designated three work zones on low slope roofs with unprotected edges that are four feet or more above a lower level. Steep roof above 4 12 slope 29 cfr 1926 501 b 11. Aerial lifts may be used to transport personnel so long as the requirements in 29 cfr 1926 453 which cover aerial lifts are met.

29 cfr 1926 500 defines low slope roof as a roof having a slope less than or equal to 4 in 12 vertical to horizontal 29 cfr 1926 501 b 10 allows the use of a safety monitor on a low slope roof. Employers must provide the right equipment employers must provide fall protection and the right equipment for the job including the right kinds of ladders scaffolds and safety gear.