We use can use a warning line system for fall prevention whenever we are working on a roof has a slope of 4/12 or less, is wider than fifty feet and has parapet walls less than 39″ high.
There’s a whole lot more to it than meets the eye. Let’s take a look at the some of the basics and see how we do.
The warning lines can be made of wire, rope, or chain and flagged every six feet.
The warning lines must be supported by stanchion posts that can withstand a tipping force of at least 16 pounds.
The height of the warning line from the roof surface must be between 34 and 39 inches.
The tensile breaking strength of the warning line should be at least 500 lbs.
The open edges around the roof work site should be guarded by warning lines. These have to be set six feet from all edges when no mechanical equipment is being used. When mechanical equipment is being operated, the warning lines must be 10 feet from the edge in the direction the equipment is traveling and six feet from the roof edge or the sides of the work area.
No materials or mechanical equipment can be stored outside the warning lines.
You may not work outside of the warning line area without additional fall protection (such as a personal fall arrest system or guardrails)
A safety monitor system is used in conjunction with a warning line system with a 4/12 or less slope and 50 feet wide or wider roofs.
The safety monitor must be trained and able to recognize and anticipate hazards. He/she also is authorized to take immediate corrective action.
A safety monitor must be a “competent person” and have no other duties which could interfere with their responsibility.
A safety monitor must be able to see the employees he/she is monitoring; must be on the same working level; and must be able to communicate with them verbally.
