Safe Access and Maintenance

It is essential to go on to the roof at least once a year to remove debris, check drainage and apply fertiliser, and it's even more essential that whoever carries out the maintenance should take sensible precautions to ensure his or her safety.

  • Firstly, the roof should be strong enough to carry the extra weight or "live loading" (see structural requirements)
  • The roof should be fitted with a fall restraint system to keep you 2 metres from the roof edge.(see photographs below)
  • People working on the roof should use a harness.
  • Safety provision must be adapted to meet the individual roof's requirements for access/maintenance. Safety needs will vary according to aspect, slope etc. If in doubt, check with your local Health and Safety office


Fall restraint system in place


Fall restraint system - detail