The Safest Route

by Jonathan McGaha | 2 February 2014 12:00 am

Metal roof walkways address safety concerns

Metal roofs have numerous advantages, but they also pose a particular set of problems when it comes to accessing the rooftop. Metal roofs become especially slippery when wet. Inclined metal roofs can be difficult to traverse and climb. The profile of some metal roofs creates significant trip hazards. Put that all together and you have significant fall hazards that need to be addressed.

Walkways for metal roofs can address all of these major safety problems. For starters, the tread is made with a grip surface to prevent slipping. Walkways for metal roofs are also made to provide a level surface while traversing and climbing the roof. Finally, because the surface is elevated, the seams no longer pose a dangerous trip hazard.

Make a clear walking path

Another advantage of walkways on metal roofs is that it directs the person accessing the roof along the safest route. Safety experts will say the safest way to walk on a roof is not necessarily a line from point A to point B. Walkways can be used to funnel people, accessing the roof, along the safest possible path. Lifelines and/or guardrails can also be used in conjunction with roof walkways to eliminate fall hazards all together.

Walkways not only get people around on the roof safely, they can also be used in a functional way to form a flat walking and working surface on an otherwise sloped roof. A piece of HVAC equipment that is perched on the sloped section can be difficult to access. Imagine trying to work when your tools are sliding off the roof! Walkways such as the Kee- Walk Metal Roof walkway from Simplified Safety, Rochester, N.Y., can be used to create a flat working surface around the rooftop mechanical equipment. Creating a flat working surface means safety for the worker and more efficiency for the employer.

Modular and custom walkway systems

Walkway systems for metal roofs come in two primary forms: modular and custom. Custom walkways are designed to meet the exact specifications and dimensions of a rooftop. Custom systems can give an accurate finish, but can be difficult to specify and build, and expensive for shorter walkways. Modular systems are made up of standard lengths and configurations. Some modular walkway systems come in standard 5- and 10-foot sections that are flat, traversing and stair step. This type of system simplifies the configuration and ordering process. Modular systems are also Walkways are an investment in the safety and productivity of employees. made to handle multi-angles and are usually adjustable in nature.

Attaching the walkway

A big concern for anything that attaches to the roof is ensuring that it does not penetrate the roof. Penetrating the roof membrane can void warrantees and create leaks. If your roof is corrugated, then you’ll have to settle for penetrations, but make sure that the contractor uses the proper fasteners and sealants to eliminate and seal off leaks. If you have a standing seam roof it is best to rely on a nonpenetrating fastening system such as S-5! clamps from Colorado Springs, Colo.-based S-5! Attachment Solutions.

Walkways are an investment in the safety and productivity of employees. Walkways clear away dangerous obstacles and set up a solid foundation for productive work. Be sure to consider all the options listed above and look for the walkway solution that will most efficiently address the safety and productivity of everyone who accesses the roof.

Chris Pollock is the general manager of Simplified Safety, Rochester, N.Y. For more information, visit www.simplifiedsafety.com[1].

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/the-safest-route/

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