Commercial and industrial rooftops face increasing challenges from extreme weather events and environmental factors, putting the integrity of roofs and the equipment on them at risk. To safeguard against these challenges, businesses need resilient roof systems built for longevity, durability, and worker safety.
This is true for commercial and industrial settings alike. PHP Roofing Solutions emerges as a key player in this arena, offering a wide range of rooftop equipment support structures designed to enhance workforce safety and ensure the longevity of commercial and industrial roofs.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the importance on rooftop equipment support systems and how they help in keeping your property and workers safe.
The Role of Resilient Rooftop Support Systems
Investing in a reliable rooftop support system is a fundamental step toward improving the functionality and accessibility of commercial rooftops. The goal is to support a resilient roof system capable of withstanding wind, impacts, extreme weather, and environmental challenges.
Furthermore, these systems also help keep equipment off your roof, prolonging their useful life. For example, duct support systems keep air flowing around the ducts, preventing rust on them. It also protects what is inside the ducts from water and other forms of damage. For electrical wires, there are cable trays and cable tray supports, reducing maintenance expense considerably.
Similarly, walkways, ramps, crossovers, stairs, and pathways help your employees get safe passage towards your equipment. This essentially makes your rooftop safer, preventing them from stepping into ponds, reducing slip and fall risks, and more. They are a critical part of ensuring OSHA compliance for rooftop workers.
Commercial rooftops face increased stress due to the changing climate, which brings about more powerful rainstorms and wetter winters. These factors necessitate a closer look at how different stressors impact rooftops and the measures that can be taken to mitigate these challenges.
Stressors on Commercial/Industrial Roofs
Some prevalent risk factors that commercial and industrial rooftops need to keep in mind include:
- Warmer Summers and Thermal Stress: The rise in temperatures during hot summer days poses a significant challenge to standard rooftops. PHP Roofing Solutions addresses this by advocating for advanced materials like TPO or EPDM, which offer superior UV resistance compared to traditional materials. The use of reflective coatings or paints further aids in reducing rooftop temperatures, preventing thermal damage.
- Intensified Weather Events: With weather events becoming more frequent and intense, traditional roofs face accelerated wear and tear. Resilient roofs, as advocated by PHP Roofing Solutions, incorporate strategies such as thicker roofing decks, reinforced attachments, water-tight membranes, and enhanced insulation to withstand the force of extreme weather events. These strategies go beyond standard regulations, ensuring a roof that can endure unexpected challenges.
- Increased Maintenance and Safety Risks: While increasing maintenance might seem like a logical solution, it comes with its own set of challenges. Sending workers onto the roof for frequent maintenance poses risks such as damage to the roof and potential hazards to the workforce. PHP Roofing Solutions emphasizes the importance of safety by offering Zero penetration supports, walkways, and crossovers constructed from hot-dip galvanized steel. These durable materials ensure a resilient rooftop support system, integral for maintaining safety and structural integrity.
Understanding Rooftop Safety Hazards
Ensuring the safety of workers on commercial rooftops is a critical aspect of PHP Roofing Solutions' approach. While rooftop supports play a vital role, it's essential to be aware of common rooftop safety hazards.
Whether your business is involved in construction, maintenance, solar panel installation, or HVAC repair, understanding and addressing these hazards is crucial.
Common Rooftop Safety Hazards:
- Falling From Heights: Falls from heights are a significant risk, emphasizing the need for proper safety measures such as guardrails, fall-protection systems, and training programs.
- Slippery Surfaces: Rooftop surfaces can become slippery due to weather conditions or debris. Regular cleaning, appropriate footwear, and anti-slip materials help mitigate this hazard.
- Poor Lighting: Insufficient lighting can lead to accidents. Proper lighting assessments, portable lighting, and scheduling work during daylight hours contribute to improved visibility.
- Unprotected Holes: Holes, including skylights and ventilation ducts, pose serious risks. Guarding solutions, routine inspections, and worker education are crucial for preventing accidents.
- Electrical Hazards: Electrical systems on rooftops require regular inspections, worker training, insulated tools, and compliance with safety regulations to prevent electrical accidents.
- Ventilation Issues: Inadequate ventilation can lead to health risks. Regular inspections, air quality monitoring, and task-specific ventilation solutions help maintain a safe rooftop environment.
- Weak Structures: Rooftop structures must support the weight of workers and equipment. Structural assessments, worker training, and clear weight limit communication contribute to safety.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather can pose dangers. Monitoring weather forecasts, worker training on weather-related hazards, and adapting work schedules ensure safety.
- Unsecured Equipment: Tools and equipment left unsecured create hazards. Effective tool management, worker training, and pre-work inspections contribute to a safe work environment.
- Improper Training: Inadequate training increases the risk of accidents. Thorough safety training, verification of safety qualifications, and hands-on exercises are essential for rooftop work.
- Unfamiliar Terrain: Rooftops can have uneven surfaces. Pre-work assessments, appropriate safety equipment, worker training, and visible markings help prevent accidents related to unfamiliar terrain.
Building a Resilient Future with PHP Roofing Solutions
PHP Roofing Solutions stands as a reliable partner in building resilient rooftop support systems. While the focus remains on safety and durability, understanding and mitigating common rooftop hazards is equally crucial.
By combining innovative support structures with proactive safety measures, businesses can navigate the challenges posed by climate change and ensure a safe and efficient environment for their workforce. As businesses continue to evolve and adapt to a changing climate, PHP Roofing Solutions remains committed to providing top-notch rooftop support solutions.
From pipe supports and cable tray supports to solar panel mounts and more, PHP Roofing Solutions is dedicated to enhancing the longevity and safety of commercial and industrial rooftops. By investing in resilient rooftop support, businesses can fortify their structures, protect their workforce, and build a sustainable future. Call us today to get quote, learn more about our products, and see how we can help!
