Why Installing Roof Access Is Important?

24 Feb Why Installing Roof Access Is Important?

There are multiple reasons why you may require access to a roof. Though often required, it can be a high risk and difficult activity to undertake. That is why it is important to follow regulations and guidance to reduce the danger involved and make the process easier and more productive.

Many safety features and equipment exist that can be employed to reduce falls risk and increase efficiency once a worker is on or inside a roof. In this post, we will look more specifically at several ways to achieve access to a building’s roof and why it can be important to install an effective roof access feature.

Australian Height Safety Services can help you identify what type of roof access can work best for you and supply and install this safely. This may be a roof access hatch, caged ladders, step bridges, or platforms depending on your requirements and preferences.

Why Is Roof Access Required?

You may need to access the outside or inside of a roof for a variety of tasks and requirements. This may include reasons such as:

• Structural repairs.
• Installation and maintenance of air conditioning and heating ducts.
• Renovations
• Painting.
• Ventilation.
• Legal requirements for safety in larger buildings, such as office buildings, for emergency situations.
• Transference of equipment, tools, or heavy machinery in industrial complexes or warehouses.
• Extension of useable space in homes.
• Workers can refuse a project if access is deemed to not comply with regulations or is unsafe.

What Are The Benefits Of Installing A Roof Access Feature

Installing a form of roof access avoids the need to climb up the side of a house to the roof, which can involve dangers such as falling ladders, equipment being dropped from a great height, and additional trips being made to be able to carry required items.

There are a few access options to choose from. This generally includes:

• Roof access hatches.
• Caged ladders.
• Step bridges.
• Platforms.

Each type of roof access options possess different benefits and suit varying requirements and building types. Factors to consider that will help you make the most of the benefits on offer include:

• How often access is required.
• How frequently equipment will be required to be taken up to the roof.
• The number of people typically in need of accessing the roof.
• Your budget.
• The skills and training the people accessing the roof have.
• The security needs involved in relation to the type of building.
• The weather and climate of the area.

Also read: How much does it cost to install a roof access hatch?

Which Roof Access Type Should You Choose?

Installing a form of roof access can be important and highly beneficial and therefore, it is vital you understand the options. We can assess your building and identify your needs to assist in deciding what will work best for you.

We generally recommend one of the following:

Roof Access Hatches

These are often considered the safest solution and there is a range of designs on offer to cater for different building types and personal requirements. Hutches consist of a door that is installed into the roof, following its slope, and opens up to allow access. Designs include a range of sizes and materials and hinged or sliding door options.

Safety features also exist to reduce risks associated with roof access hatches such as falling through the open hatch or having the door shut unexpectedly. These include offset railings, interior and exterior locks, automatic hold-open latches, hinged or sliding mechanisms, and gas-charged opening devices.

AHSS offers the following roof access hatches:

Commercial Skydore sliding roof access hatch.

This is a commercial and industrial rated access option that involves a sliding lid mechanism and high strength welded framework construction. It is ideal for windy conditions and comes in standard or custom sizes.

Commercial Skydore hinged roof access hatch

This hatch uses a hinged, double skin lid mechanism with twin struts that open to a 90° angle. These have a low profile, come in corrugated or tray deck designs, and have a gas strut assisted opening and closing, which is beneficial for situations that involve frequent use. They also work well with our Vista fold down access ladder system.

As well as increased safety and efficiency, access hatches can improve thermal performance due to insulation and have a reduced risk of outdoor noise entering the building than some other types of roof access.

Access Ladders

AHSS can also supply and install permanent access ladders. We choose the Sayfa range due to their durability and manufacturing quality. These allow for access to roofs and can be installed with falls arrest mechanisms and cages.

We offer design and construction choices including industrial grade aluminium, non-corrosive materials, and prefabricated modular components that avoid the need for on-site welding.

Others also read: Top 9 safety tips for using roof access ladders

Step Bridges

We typically choose the Alto step bridge for safe and simple roof access and avoidance of hazardous obstacles. These can be combined with knee rails, handrails, guard rails, and walkways. These step bridges are durable and high quality with a choice of designs. They are easy to use and are ideal for frequent access needs.

AHSS Can Install Your Choice Of Roof Access

There are several types of roof access options that suit different requirements and buildings. At AHSS, we are experienced in installing durable and high-quality designs. Contact us to discuss which will be best for you.

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