Federal guidelines mandate that employers provide a safe work environment, which is especially important for industrial and on-site construction settings. But in addition to the importance of following official OSHA rules and guidelines, it’s a well-known fact that safe workplaces increase productivity and contribute to overall job satisfaction.

For those workers who perform required job tasks on rooftops or other elevated locations, metal walkway systems and handrails can prevent falls, slips, and other on-the-job accidents. Not counting highway collisions, more construction workers died from falls last year than any other cause. And OSHA reports that more companies were cited for failing to meet fall protection standards in 2016 than any other standard.

Whether you need safe access across a rooftop, or a protected method of access to the roof, consulting with a company who has expertise for installing metal building roof walkway systems in Houston, TX, is the first step in ensuring your company is meeting all statutes and safety regulations for providing a safe work environment.

There are several reasons why a rooftop metal walkway system install will enhance safety protocols, and here are the top three.

Slip-Resistant Surface

The grated, elevated walkway design of a METALWALK® system allows water to drain instead of collecting on the walkway itself, which reduces the risk of slips and falls. Steep-pitched roofs are an additional safety concern, due to the difficulty in not only walking, but balancing while performing work duties. A METALWALK® system can be customized to fit a variety of roof pitches, providing a sturdy, safe, and structurally sound surface which also reduces the risk of slips, slides, and skids that can lead to serious falls.

Even Load Distribution

Metal roofs without a walkway system may contribute to increased risks of trips and falls due to hazards such as the pitch, seams, roof fans, ridge vents, or added features such as skylights. Metal roofs can also be damaged by foot traffic, and a METALWALK® rooftop system prevents structural damage. The walkway is designed to distribute the load evenly on the rooftop, which reduces wear and tear and increases safety for workers.

Handrails and Toeboards

Providers for rooftop METALWALK® system services in Houston, TX, also suggest handrails and toeboards to increase worker safety.

Handrails provide an additional safety feature for workers. Whether it is a railing around the roof edge to protect against falls, or a slip or slide preventative during inclement weather conditions, rails provide an added safety precaution. OSHA requires specific heights and other specifications for guardrails. Consulting with an experienced metal walkway rooftop system provider will allow the customization needed for your roof.

Toeboards protect those below who might be injured if a hammer or other tool fell off of the edge of the roof. They are an OSHA requirement under certain specifications and are considered a part of the handrail system.

For questions or additional information about rooftop METALWALK® system safety in Houston, TX, call Design Components.