Roof safety RI&E (Risk Inventory and Evaluation)

Objective

When assessing and evaluating the risks for the performance of short-term work on existing and new roofs, the way in which risks can be minimised is specified. Clear roof plan drawings indicate where and what kind of safety devices should be installed.

Legal framework

The Working Conditions Act (‘Arbowet’ in Dutch) relates to health, safety and welfare in connection with work. The general rules and objectives have been defined and specified in the Working Conditions Decree, the Working Conditions Regulations and H&S catalogues. The Pitched Roofs and Flat Roofs H&S catalogues apply to the roof sector. The Flat Roofs H&S Catalogue applies to employers and employees who are subject to the Bituminous and Synthetic Roofing Sector Collective Agreement. The Pitched Roofs H&S Catalogue applies to almost all principals, employers and employees in the building industry who are involved in the pitched roof sector.

Inspections

In order to be able to provide a sound recommendation, all roofs need to be inspected in relation to the maintenance on the roof and the installations present on it. The maintenance frequency is also considered. The frequency of any maintenance depends on the design and the type of roofing.

Inventory & Evaluation

The inspection findings are used to assess the risks relating to the following aspects:
- Access to the roof;
- The performance of short-term work;
- Walking on the roofs;
- Accessibility of the installations and devices;
- etc.
Following the inventory, the risks are evaluated and a statement is provided regarding the risks present during work on the roof. Recommendations are made in order to minimise these risks. This can be done by installing safety systems on roofs, for example permanent access protection, mobile or permanent fall protection systems, by fencing off a high-risk area or by indicating safety zones.

Reporting

The findings are recorded in a report in which the risks are evaluated. Following this, a recommendation is provided on the best way to make the roofs safe. A roof plan drawing, indicating where and what kind of devices have to be installed, is usually part of the report. A detailed roof plan drawing is a prerequisite.