Skylights are one of the most underestimated hazards when working at heights. But, with an average of 7 fatalities each year from falling through skylights or fragile areas of roofs, they’re a risk that needs to be taken seriously. This is where fall protection measures come into play, designed to prevent falls from happening at all.
Skylights are fragile surfaces that require proper fall protection solutions to deal with the risk they pose. Thankfully, at Altus Safety we offer just that.
With clever systems to reduce the risks of these common roof hazards, you can improve the safety of your site for everyone who accesses it. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the top methods of skylight fall protection and the differences between each so that you can choose the best solution for your roof.
Unsure which is right for you? Simply contact our customer service team today and we’ll talk you through your options.
What Is Skylight Fall Protection?
Skylight fall protection refers to high-quality safety solutions that cover skylights or roof lights installed on roofs. They can also be used to cover areas of the roof that have been identified as weak, removing the risk of someone falling through. They act as collective fall protection systems, designed to protect workers and contractors on your site all at once, rather than offering individual protection. Collective protection solutions are preferred according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Typically, skylight protection is created using a frame that outlines the area and, if needed, a covering so that the skylight or fragile area is completely inaccessible. Adequate fall protection solutions are only required if people will be working at height on the roof or it’s a space that’s frequently accessed, like a communal rooftop garden.
What Are The Different Types Of Roof Light Fall Protection?
Worker safety should always be your priority. Sometimes that looks like personal fall arrest systems designed for workers carrying out a specific task, and sometimes it looks like preventative measures like skylight protection which enhances worker safety by simply preventing falls from occurring in the first place.
When looking into skylight protection systems, there are various solutions tailored to meet your specific needs – all of which still let in the natural light you expect from a skylight but all still provide the proper protection you need to keep everybody safe on your site. Let’s take a look at the different skylight fall protection solutions designed to protect against fall hazards relating to skylights.
Modular Skylight Protection
Modular skylight protection is entirely freestanding, meaning it doesn’t have to be drilled into the surface of your roof – ideal for delicate roof membranes and materials. Sturdy and stable, it’s a reliable solution that can be used for both permanent and temporary protection.
It’s also excellent for listed buildings or those where you don’t want to drill into the roof, providing a system that can be removed without leaving any marks when required.
UPVC Skylight Protection
uPVC skylight protection is a lightweight alternative to metal systems, utilizing uPVC to make your designs portable and easy to install. These are suitable for a wide range of roof types, too, and can be permanently attached for a long-term, low-maintenance solution.
uPVC skylight fall protection could prove to be the right fall protection measure for you if you’re looking for a solution that is affordable and sturdy. uPVC solutions are generally relatively cheap because of the ease of access to materials whilst also being robust enough to withstand most weather conditions.
Galvanised Mesh Skylights
Galvanised mesh skylight protection is some of the strongest on offer. Making use of hardy galvanised steel, the mesh design also allows for plenty of natural light, yet the steel stands out from your roof, making it very obvious that workers and contractors should avoid the area for their safety.
These come at a higher cost than uPVC solutions, but they’re made of stronger stuff and could prove to be a long-term solution to your skylight fall risk problem.
Skylight Safety Netting
Skylight safety netting – if you’re unfamiliar with the system – is exactly what you think it is. A net is fitted beneath fragile skylights and surfaces to ensure that, if the worst should happen and a fall through the surface occurs, then the netting – fitted with a secure ratchet strap – is on hand to stop that fall.
Skylight safety netting is an affordable solution and a great option B. There’s no reason why you can’t install uPVC skylight protection above the skylight to prevent access, and skylight safety netting below for extra protection. Contact our team today for further advice and support.
Do You Need Skylight Fall Protection Testing?
Yes, skylight fall protection systems need to be inspected in accordance with BS EN 14122 regulations. You’ll need a professional to inspect your fall protection at least every 12 months, ensuring it complies with UK health and safety laws and keeping anyone who accesses the site safe from falls.
At Altus Safety, we offer a complete compliance testing service which ensures your skylight protection is still in appropriate condition and position every 12 months in accordance with all relevant regulations. Work with our testing team today.
Secure Your Roof With Roof Light Fall Protection
Skylight fall protection isn’t just a nice to have. With statistics surrounding fatalities and skylights staggering, it’s your duty to protect workers and contractors on your site when they access your roof. We can help.
Meet health and safety regulations and make securing your roof simple with our experienced team of height safety specialists. We can match your site with the right skylight roof protection, install your systems, and test them once a year to reduce the risk of falls on your site.
Ready to choose your roof light fall protection? Get in touch with us today.