The level of restriction depends on the type of fall prevention equipment and the tasks performed on the roof.
Safe roof access regulations.
The safety monitor is always a competent person 29 cfr 1926 500 b.
Most roof access hatches are made of galvanized steel or aluminum.
With regard to fall protection requirements applicable to the construction work itself 1926 501 b 10 low slope roofs requires conventional fall protection a combination of a monitoring system and warning line or on roofs of 50 feet or less in width a monitoring system alone i e without a warning line be used.
The warning line system shall consist of ropes wires or chains and supporting stanchions 29 cfr 1926 502 f 2.
No part of the body leaves the roof.
Roof access hatch safety measures roof access hatches can be installed on flat roof surfaces the maximum incline being 30 degrees.
Safe access to a roof requires careful planning particularly where work progresses along the roof.
The weight of the snow will vary depending on its water content.
Or on roofs 50 feet 15 25 m or less in width the use of a safety monitoring system alone is permitted 29 cfr 1926 501 b 10.
Keep in mind there is no distance from the edge of a roof that osha regulations deem safe without at the very least a warning line and safety monitor but they have stated that if they cite an employer because the employees were on a roof but remained more than 15 away from the edge that they would cite it as a de minimis violation meaning no monetary penalty would be attached.
The hatches should also be insulated well to prevent frost and condensation accumulation.
The minimum requirements are a safe means of access to the roof level.
Ensure that stepping onto the roof can be done safely and that the landing place is firm stable and free of obstructions.
Where there is no permanent access to roof areas provide properly constructed temporary access with clearly signposted access points on roof edge protection.
Providing proper instruction as well as having an adequate rescue plan in place are required and the building owners liability.
Typical methods to access roofs are.
Snow load is the weight of the snow as generally reported in pounds per square foot.
A high level of user skill is required for roof anchors and static lines however much lower skill levels are required for guardrail systems which justifies less restrictive access.