Osha Regulations Roof Access

Parapet ladders must have an access level at the roof if the parapet is cut to permit passage through it.

Osha regulations roof access.

1910 23 osha s requirements for locking type snaphooks on pole strap systems 03 13 1996 1910 23 platforms and ladders on communication towers. Osha considers it a working area. Conversely they can leave it up to individual contractors to provide safe access to the roof during maintenance activities. The osha general industry standards exclude construction as well as agriculture and marine industries which also have their own standards but both standards can sometimes apply to the same.

These standards are flexible providing multiple options for maintaining compliance. If the parapet is continuous the access level is the top of the parapet. How far the d ring shifts and the harness stretches when it supports the full weight of a fallen worker including the weight of tool belts and other attached equipment or tools. Osha requires that this distance be no greater than 3 5 feet 29 cfr 1926 502 d 16 iv but it may be less for some pfas equipment.

More importantly the risk of injury or even death from this hazard creates a serious safety and liability concern for building owners. Osha has set forth regulations codifying the steps building owners must take to protect roof openings including roof hatches. This means that the building owner needs to work with their maintenance staff to develop a safe work plan for any work on the roof.