Roof Shoveling Safety

Wear boots that are slip resistant spike shoes for example warm clothes a suitable jacket and gloves.

Roof shoveling safety.

Shoveling snow off the roof is a dangerous job. Here are a few pointers to make it easier and safer. Extend the top of the ladder at least 3 ft. In many cases you can clear away enough snow from ground level using a roof rake pictured above or from off a ladder.

Avoid making snow piles on the roof. Begin the chore with the roof rake. Read understand and follow all manufacturers instructions for the safe use of snow blowers and similar mechanical. If possible avoid carrying anything up the ladder.

Remove snow uniformly across the roof. A roof rake is a good option as it allows the homeowner to stand on the ground and rake the snow from a slanted roof. To prevent unbalanced loading during snow removal workers should. Ensure that powered equipment is not used within 15 feet of any roof edge.

Extenders are available if you need them. Shoveling or raking a roof without using the proper procedures can also increase the risk of roof collapse by creating an unbalanced load on the roof. Along with these necessities be sure to dress appropriately for the task. Use required fall protection.

Above the roof edge so you ll have something to hang on to as you step onto. Don t let snow pile too high. For those who do not feel comfortable on their roofs or who have slanted roofs it is definitely not a good idea to attempt shoveling the snow off. If you don t step foot on the roof your odds of injury are much lower and you can often minimize the need for shoveling by applying deicer along the eave.