In order to provide a safe workplace, Building Owners, Property Managers, Architects, Planners, and Engineers are required to incorporate safe design measures to eliminate, prevent, or otherwise control fall hazards in the design phase.
There are many options for reduction of fall hazards, but the ultimate goal is total elimination of hazards wherever possible. One such method of fall hazard elimination is the incorporation of ground support equipment into the mechanical design of the building, eliminating the need to go on the roof to inspect or maintain equipment.
How Can Fall Risks Be Reduced?
Another such method of fall hazard elimination is the incorporation of interstitial space into the design of the building, which provides a full-fledged walking surface for inspection of elevated equipment.
Parapets and portable guard rails do not completely eliminate fall hazards, but do offer strong protection.
Presumably harmless aspects of a building's roof can still represent fall hazards. Features such as skylights should be caged or covered to prevent workers from falling through them.
