Summer is around the corner, and as any commercial building owner knows, the season brings about all sorts of challenging weather conditions. Scorching heat, pouring rain, high humidity, and potentially damaging winds; not only are these conditions unpleasant but they also negatively impact your commercial roof. To protect your business’s #1 investment, roofing oversight and regular maintenance are critical during summertime. But, to assure your teams stays safe above ground and that you continue to meet all OSHA requirements, your building should be outfitted with safe rooftop walkway products.
The Challenges of Summer Commercial Roof Maintenance
Your commercial roof plays such an important role in keeping the structural integrity of the building. In the summer, to uphold that integrity, here are the roofing issues that you need to be on the lookout for:
- Prematurely warped, cracked or rusted roofing materials
- Damaged and overhanging tree limbs
- Water damage on your ceiling or in the attic
- Moss and algae growth (especially with flat roofs)
- Missing bolts, connectors, or fasteners
In addition, you especially need to keep an eye on pieces of equipment housed on the rooftop that need regular maintenance, such as HVAC systems, air ducts, roof fans, and solar panels.
The Importance of Safe Rooftop Walkway Products
A Rooftop METALWALK® System provides safe access to the rooftop without direct foot traffic that causes roof damage. It also keeps your employees safe and helps your company avoid significant liability.
There are many safe rooftop walkway products that can be paired with your rooftop walkway system, these include: ladders, stairs, and roof hatches.
Ladders
Every building has its unique commercial needs. Therefore, it’s crucial that commercial building owners identify what those needs are to choose the right product. Here are a few factors to consider before purchasing a commercial-grade ladder:
- Type (multi-position, step, extension, or platform)
- Material (fiberglass or aluminum)
- Height
- Safety cage
- Walk-through handrails
- Stand-off platforms
DON’T FORGET! OSHA requires companies to meet standards for a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS)
No matter what the season, it is important to remember that OSHA has stringent requirements for a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS). While this “system” most importantly protects workers’ lives, it is also critical for the health of your company. Having adequate Ladder Fall Protection does not have to be a mystery, as always Design Components, Inc. is available to help you with a customized plan that meets all OSHA PFAS standards with great functionality, style and safety.
Stairs
Stairs are a critical consideration when planning for rooftop access or crossover. Just like walkways, roof access stairs prevent maintenance workers from injuries. Without roof access stairs, maintenance workers may have to attempt access in ways that are unsafe. Not only does improper roof access expose your team to potential falls, but it can also cause damage to your building.
For your reference, here are the standard stair options that we offer at Design Components, Inc.:
- IBC or OSHA
- Grip-Strut grating or concrete treads
- Galvanized steel
- Extra-wide treads
- Picket railings
- Lexan / Plexiglass Railings
Roof hatches
Roof hatches make a convenient and affordable option to access the rooftop of your building safely. They can also be a great addition to your rooftop walkway system. They come in a large variety of sizes and shapes and work great with roof curbs to form a single, seamless way to get to the rooftop.
Let Us Provide You with The Best Rooftop Walkway Products!
Want to learn more about which rooftop walkway products would be the best fit for your business this summer? Our experienced team is ready to help guide you through this process. With 40 years of experience as a metal building accessories supplier, whether it’s ladders, stairs, or hatches, we have what it takes to create an excellent rooftop walkway system that will meet your needs.
To speak with an expert ready to help you, give us a call today at (800) 868-9910 or by requesting a quote on our website. Learn more by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
