Starting the Year Right
Making Safety a Priority in Roofing
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 the new year begins, roofing contractors across the country are preparing for another busy season. While most plans revolve around project timelines, budgets, and workforce management, there is one area that deserves equal, if not greater, attention: safety. Starting the year with a solid safety plan can set the tone for your company, protect your workers, and even bolster your bottom line. Here’s how a commitment to safety can create a strong foundation for success in the roofing industry.
Why Safety Should Be a Top Priority
Roofing is one of the most dangerous professions, with falls, electrical hazards, and heat-related illnesses ranking among the leading causes of workplace injuries. For workers, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For companies, the costs of neglecting safety can be devastating, including lost time, increased insurance premiums, fines, and damage to reputation.
A proactive approach to safety is not just about compliance; it’s about creating a culture that values human life above all else. This mindset not only reduces accidents but also improves morale, productivity, and long-term profitability.
Building a Safety Plan for Success
Safety starts at the top. Company leaders must demonstrate a visible commitment to safety by setting clear expectations and providing the resources necessary to meet them. This includes: allocating budget for safety training and equipment, hiring or assigning a dedicated safety officer, and regularly communicating the importance of safety in company meetings and written materials. When leadership is engaged, it sets the tone for the entire organization and emphasizes that safety is non-negotiable.
Training is the cornerstone of any effective safety program. Start the year with refresher courses that ensure all employees are up to date on safety protocols. Key training topics should include fall protection, heat illness protection, ladder safety, and using personal protective equipment. Hands-on training is particularly effective. By giving workers practical, on-the-job demonstrations, they can better understand how to apply safety measures in real-world scenarios.
Creating an environment where workers feel comfortable reporting hazards or asking questions is critical. Encourage open communication by holding regular toolbox talks where employees can discuss safety concerns, establishing a no-retaliation policy for reporting unsafe conditions, or providing anonymous channels for feedback, such as suggestion boxes or online forms. When workers know their voices are heard, they are more likely to engage with the company’s safety efforts and take ownership of their role in maintaining a safe job site.
Documentation is more than a regulatory requirement; it’s a vital tool for evaluating and improving your safety program. Maintain detailed records of training sessions, including attendance and topics covered, inspections of equipment and job sites, and incident reports and near-miss analyses. This data not only helps identify trends and areas for improvement but also serves as evidence of your commitment to safety in the event of an audit or claim.
The Benefits of a Strong Safety Culture
The most obvious benefit of a robust safety program is the prevention of accidents. Every injury avoided means a worker goes home to their family safe and sound. Beyond the human cost, fewer accidents mean less downtime, reduced stress for your team, and a smoother workflow.
Investing in safety may seem like an upfront expense, but the long-term savings are undeniable. Consider these cost-saving benefits:
Lower Insurance Premiums: A clean safety record can result in significant reductions in workers’ compensation and liability insurance costs.
Fewer OSHA Penalties: Compliance with safety standards minimizes the risk of costly fines.
Increased Productivity: Healthy workers are more efficient and focused, reducing project delays.
Retention and Recruitment: A reputation for safety attracts skilled workers who value a company that prioritizes their well-being.
A company known for its safety practices earns the trust of clients, partners, and the community. This reputation can lead to repeat business, referrals, and a competitive edge in bidding for projects. Clients appreciate contractors who demonstrate professionalism and care for their workforce, viewing it as an extension of the quality they bring to the job.
Examples of Success in Safety
One roofing contractor implemented a comprehensive fall protection program at the start of the year, including training, regular inspections, and strict adherence to anchor point guidelines. Midway through the year, a worker slipped on a steep slope but was safely suspended by their harness. Thanks to the company’s proactive approach, the worker walked away unscathed, and the incident underscored the value of their investment in safety.
Another company introduced weekly safety meetings and an anonymous reporting system. Within months, the number of reported hazards tripled, a sign that workers were more engaged. By addressing these issues promptly, the company saw a dramatic drop in near-miss incidents, reinforcing the importance of open communication.
Conclusion
As roofing contractors, we operate in one of the most hazardous industries. But with a thoughtful safety plan that prioritizes training, hands-on learning, open communication, and thorough documentation, the risks can be significantly mitigated. Starting the year with a renewed focus on safety is not just a moral obligation, it’s a smart business decision that protects workers and ensures long-term success.
Let 2025 be the year your company strengthens its safety culture, proving that a commitment to protecting lives is also a commitment to building a thriving, resilient business.
