Staying Ahead
A Guide to the OSHA Changes for Roofing Contractors
by Stephen Zasadil, WSRCA Safety Consultant, President, SNK Services LLC
(Editor’s Note: Stephen Zasadil spent ten years as a safety of flight operator with the United States Navy before beginning his career as a safety compliance consultant in 2009. He currently works with companies across the United States to provide OSHA compliance information, documentation, and training.)
As roofing professionals, staying up to date with OSHA regulations and independent state program changes is more important than ever. Over the last year, significant shifts in compliance standards have affected safety protocols in key areas such as fall protection, heat illness prevention, and recordkeeping. Failing to adapt to these updates can expose companies to costly penalties, but more importantly, can put workers at risk. Here’s a breakdown of the key updates, how they impact roofing contractors, and the resources available to help your business stay compliant.
Fall Protection Requirements
One of the most critical updates this year has been the revision to fall protection standards. Federal OSHA mandates fall protection for workers at heights of six feet or more in construction. However, states with their own OSHA programs, such as California, Oregon, and Washington, have specific rules tailored to their industries, including roofing.
In California, the trigger height for most residential roofing work is 15 feet, however this is set to be changed to six feet in the near future. For slopes greater than 7:12, fall protection is required at any height. The methods to ensure safety include personal fall arrest systems (PFAS), catch platforms, eave barriers, and more.
Oregon OSHA’s fall protection trigger height is six feet, but for certain work conditions like steep-slope, protection is required at all heights. Oregon also allows the use of slide guards on certain roof slopes, although their use has been limited by recent updates emphasizing more robust protections like PFAS.
Washington’s fall protection trigger height for roofers is four feet in general and six feet for low slope in construction, a stricter standard than the federal requirement. However, for steep-slope roofing, fall protection is required at any height. Washington OSHA allows PFAS, guardrails, safety nets, and positioning devices but has emphasized personal fall arrest systems due to the higher risk associated with roof work.
Heat Illness Prevention Rules
As climate-related heatwaves become more frequent, both federal OSHA and state programs have tightened regulations around heat illness prevention. While federal OSHA has long required water, shade, and rest periods for outdoor workers, states like California, Washington, and Oregon have introduced stricter regulations for workers in high-heat environments, including roofers.
In California, indoor and outdoor rules require access to shade, hydration, and rest breaks, and companies must have a heat illness prevention plan in place. In Oregon, employers must provide regular breaks when temperatures exceed 80°F and ensure workers have access to cool-down areas and water. Heat illness training is also mandatory. Similar to Oregon, Washington requires frequent breaks, hydration access, and training for workers. Both states have been proactive in issuing updates to these rules to safeguard workers in the field.
Recordkeeping Updates
Accurate recordkeeping has always been a cornerstone of OSHA compliance, but recent changes highlight the growing importance of maintaining detailed records. OSHA has adjusted its electronic recordkeeping requirements, now requiring certain employers, including contractors with 20 or more employees, to submit Forms 300 and 301 electronically if they meet specific criteria.
For roofing contractors, ensuring that records related to falls, heat illness, and other workplace injuries are not only kept but also submitted on time is vital to avoid fines and ensure the business is operating within compliance. Detailed records also provide a layer of protection should an OSHA audit occur.
Why Staying Up to Date Matters for Roofers
Roofing contractors face unique safety challenges, from working at heights to exposure to extreme temperatures. Compliance with OSHA standards and state-specific changes ensures that workers are protected, projects run smoothly, and the company avoids potentially devastating penalties. Adapting quickly to regulatory updates shows a commitment to safety, which can also serve as a competitive advantage in an industry where safety records are often a deciding factor for clients.
How to Stay Compliant: Resources for Roofing Contractors
OSHA provides regular updates on federal standards, as well as links to independent state programs. Their Fall Protection and Heat Illness Prevention Campaign websites are invaluable resources. Contractors operating in states with their own OSHA programs should regularly check those sites for the most recent changes.
Groups like the Western States Roofing Contractors Association offer specialized updates for roofers, including safety apps and toolbox talks in both English and Spanish. These resources are tailored specifically to help roofing contractors stay compliant with the latest safety standards.
Consider working with safety consultants who specialize in OSHA compliance, particularly for recordkeeping and preparing for potential audits. Platforms like ISNetworld® can also assist in managing documentation and certifications relevant to OSHA standards. Keeping up with the required training for fall protection, ladder safety, and heat illness prevention is crucial. Holding regular internal safety audits can help identify any gaps before they become compliance issues.
Conclusion
Roofing contractors must stay vigilant to the changes in OSHA regulations and state-specific rules, especially concerning fall protection, heat illness prevention, and recordkeeping. By staying informed and utilizing the many resources available, contractors can ensure their teams are safe and compliant, while also protecting the company’s bottom line. In today’s regulatory environment, proactive compliance isn’t just a requirement, it’s a smart business strategy.
