Roofing Safety

Working on any roof can be dangerous. You should take every safety precaution possible and always use extreme care while working on the roof.
Use common sense while working on the roof. Let someone know you are up there – or better yet, work with a helper.
Use a ladder that is high enough and strong enough for the job you are doing. Secure the ladder at the top and bottom before climbing it.
Use extreme caution when working near power lines, conduits or TV antennas. Never touch them or allow a metal ladder to come in contact with them.
Never start a roofing job in cold or wet weather. Also, allow early morning dew to disappear before beginning your work.
Wear heavy, rubber-soled shoes with a non-skid tread to prevent slips and avoid wearing loose clothing.
If the roof slopes more than a 6:12 pitch, use roof brackets and boards to provide extra footing support. Place all tools and shingles within easy reach and where they will not slide off the roof.
Keep the roof surface clean and free from loose nails and shingles. These can cause you to slip and fall.
Keep people away from below the area where you will be working.
A safety harness, used in conjunction with a fall-arrest rope, is an added precaution when working on steep inclines and will keep you from sliding off the roof.