Roof Top Ohsha Solar Requirements

Single unit monolithic roofing applied to flat roofs may seem safer to some roof workers but the work is still at height and subject to many similar hazards and safety requirements as sloped roof work.

Roof top ohsha solar requirements. The court determined that rooftop solar panel installation is not roofing work under osha regulations. Workers who install and or maintain solar panels often work on roofs use ladders and scaffolding are in proximity of ledges and sunroofs and are exposed to fall hazards. Implementing osha standards can help to assure safe conditions. Osha safety standards especially for roof fall protection can be a source of confusion for many industrial companies.

Some have done so in pursuit of solsmart designations a program run by the solar foundation that distinguishes cities and counties that are open for solar business. Before a solar installation begins it s essential for the installer to visit the site identify the safety risks and develop specific plans for addressing them. Fall protection for rooftop work. Low slope roof 4 12 slope or less 29 cfr 1926 501 b 10.

As a result contractors performing solar work are subject to more stringent employee fall protection standards than typical roofing work jd supra reports. What heights for general or rooftop fall protection. Equipment to be used for safe lifting and handling of solar panels. The state of california and cities of orlando florida and tucson arizona along with others have incorporated solar ready requirements in commercial or residential building codes.

If you run a solar installation company these are important to be aware of because it is your responsibility to ensure a safe workplace. Proper fall protection measures personal protective equipment ppe and adhering to safe work practices can protect workers from fall hazards. Type and size of ladders and scaffolding if needed. Know the pitch of the roof and follow the appropriate standard.

Two osha standards can apply 29 cfr 1910 which governs general industry safety standards and 29 cfr 1926 which governs construction sites specifically the osha general industry standards exclude construction as well as agriculture and marine industries which. Steep roof above 4 12 slope 29 cfr 1926 501 b 11. Employers must provide the right equipment employers must provide fall protection and the right equipment for the. To meet osha requirements in the construction industry employers must provide workers with fall protection whenever they work at heights of six feet or more above a lower level 29 cfr 1926 501 b 1.