Safe roof access: What is important to remember?

Safe roof access starts with choosing the right roof access solution.

Roofs need to be accessible for inspections, solar panel maintenance and work on technical installations. However, it is not just the roof hatch that matters, but the entire access route from inside the building to the roof.

Safe roof access therefore requires a combination of a suitable roof hatch, appropriate access equipment and measures to prevent falls from height.

What are the risks when accessing a roof?

The greatest risks often occur when climbing and stepping onto the roof. An unsecured ladder can slip, there may be insufficient handholds, and there may be a risk of falling immediately next to the roof access point.

When designing a safe roof access solution, several factors should be considered:

• The height of the building;
• How frequently the roof is accessed;
• The available space beneath the roof hatch;
• Safe entry and exit;
• Sufficient handholds when stepping onto the roof;
• The distance between the roof hatch and the roof edge;
• Any permanent fall protection systems on the roof.

By considering these aspects together, a safe access route can be created from inside the building to the roof.

Accessing a roof with a ladder

For occasional roof access, a ladder can be a suitable solution. The ladder must be positioned securely and prevented from slipping during use.

It should therefore be placed on a firm, level surface and secured correctly. Particular attention should also be paid to the transition from the ladder through the roof hatch onto the roof. Users must have sufficient handholds when climbing and stepping onto the roof. It is also important that the ladder complies with the applicable safety requirements for portable access equipment.

Gorter® offers roof hatches that can be combined with matching ladders. By selecting the roof hatch and ladder as a complete combination, the dimensions and safety features are properly aligned.

Roof hatch with scissor stair for regular access

When a roof needs to be accessed more frequently, a scissor stair offers greater convenience. Users climb using steps rather than ladder rungs.

After use, the scissor stair can be folded away compactly, leaving the space beneath the roof hatch available when roof access is not required.

Gorter® offers complete roof access combinations in which the roof hatch and scissor stair are designed to work together and have been tested as a complete system.

Fixed staircase for frequent use

When a roof is accessed frequently, a fixed staircase may be the most suitable solution. This is particularly relevant for buildings where rooftop installations require regular inspection or maintenance.

A fixed staircase provides greater comfort and makes it easier to access the roof regularly. Depending on the situation, the roof access solution can be supplemented with guardrails and permanent fall protection.

Gorter® offers roof hatches that can be combined with a fixed staircase to create a complete roof access solution.

Safely stepping from the roof hatch onto the roof

The transition from the access equipment onto the roof is an important aspect of safe roof access. When stepping out, users must have sufficient handholds and be able to step onto the roof safely and securely.

Gorter® roof hatches are therefore equipped with a distinctive handrail on the inside of the upstand. This provides additional support when entering and exiting the roof.

The position of the roof hatch is also important. If the roof access point is located close to the roof edge, additional fall protection measures may be necessary.

Fall protection around the roof hatch

Safe roof access does not end once someone has stepped through the roof hatch. The route from the roof hatch to the area where work is carried out must also be safe.

Depending on the situation, various safety measures can be used, including:

• Roof edge protection;
• Guardrails around the roof access point;
• Lifeline systems;
• Clearly marked walkways;
• Additional anchor points and fall protection systems.

Particularly when a roof is accessed regularly, it is important to consider roof access and rooftop safety as one complete system.

Which roof access solution is suitable for different frequencies of use?

As a practical starting point, the frequency of roof access can help determine the most suitable solution.

Occasional maintenance

A roof hatch with a ladder and appropriate securing equipment may be sufficient.

Regular inspections and maintenance

A roof hatch with a scissor stair offers greater comfort and ease of use.

Frequent roof access

A roof hatch with a fixed staircase, optionally combined with guardrails and permanent fall protection, provides a comfortable solution for frequent use.

The most suitable configuration always depends on the building, its intended use and the applicable safety requirements.

Complete and certified roof access solutions from Gorter®

Gorter® develops not only roof hatches but also complete roof access combinations with ladders, scissor stairs and fixed staircases. These combinations are designed for professional applications and tested in accordance with relevant safety standards.

By selecting the roof hatch and access equipment as one complete system, the clear opening, operation and access equipment can be properly coordinated.

Would you like to know which roof access solution is suitable for your building? Explore the Gorter® range of roof hatches and complete roof access combinations, or contact a Gorter® advisor.