However long the work takes, the risks when accessing roof areas are substantial. Any fall from a height, whether that be from the roof, access ladder or scaffolding, can result in a life changing, debilitating injury or, even worse, a fatality. Many serious injuries and fatalities have been recorded in the construction industry which relate to short duration visits such as roof surveys and inspections where scaffolding is not in place.
Short-duration work
Short-duration work means tasks that are measured in minutes rather than hours such as roof inspections. Although it may not be reasonably practicable to provide full edge protection for short-duration work, you are however required to provide something in its place.
The minimum requirements for short-duration work on a roof are:
