Polycarbonate roofing has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. However, like any roofing material, it comes with its own set of risks and challenges. One of the most significant concerns with polycarbonate roofing is the potential for falls and accidents during installation and maintenance. But there are things you can do to improve safety when working on roofing.
Recently, we came across an unfortunate incident reported by WorkSafe Australia. This was when WorkSafe charged a horticulture supply company following a tragic incident where a worker sustained deadly head injuries due to a 3.5-metre fall through a polycarbonate roof sheeting onto a concrete floor.
Similarly, many commercial roofers feature Skylight covers that will not withstand human weight, meaning where they can fall through the skylights, causing injury or even death.
That’s where the Pro-Vis Safety Mesh comes in. In this blog, we’ll explore how this innovative product can safeguard against risks in polycarbonate roofing.
The Risks of Polycarbonate Roofing
Polycarbonate roofing is lightweight and flexible, making it easy to install and work with. However, this also means it can be more prone to damage and accidents during installation and maintenance.
The risk of falls is especially high when working on sloped roofs, as the material can be slippery and unstable. Additionally, polycarbonate roofing requires specific screws and fasteners to secure it properly, and using the wrong ones can lead to leaks and structural issues.
Top 3 Questions we are asked about Skylight Covers
Is there a product available that meets AS/NZ standards?
Pro-Vis Safety Mesh is a specially designed product that provides a safe working platform for installers and maintenance workers on skylight covers—certified to ASNZS:4389.
Is there a product available that has been engineering tested?
This fully certified product combines a mounting system, carabiners and a safety mesh that can be installed in about 12 minutes. Independent engineers have thoroughly tested each component and the whole system to ensure the highest safety.
The importance of having a product that is certified by engineers cannot be understated. Peace of mind comes from knowing the product you provide your workers and roofers is fit for purpose.
Is there a product available that is lightweight and can easily be transported up to the roof and back down?
Made from high-quality, UV-treated, high-tenacity polypropylene and is designed to be lightweight and durable.
Traditional plastic or timber overlays can be heavy to transport, and many, in fact, create additional safety risks. Our research suggests a mesh combined with certified mounting systems is the best solution.
The mesh can be placed over the polycarbonate sheets, providing a stable, non-slip surface for workers to walk on. This significantly reduces the risk of falls and accidents for your roofers, making it an essential safety measure for any polycarbonate roofing project.
Combine the Pro-Vis Safety Mesh with the EBracket® Edge Protection System for different roof types to provide an extra safety platform for on-the-roof projects.
Safety is the main essential
Polycarbonate roofing offers many benefits but comes with risks and challenges. When working at heights, the Pro-Vis Safety Mesh is an essential safety measure that can safeguard against these risks and provide a stable working platform for installers and maintenance workers.
Pro-Vis Safety Mesh is compatible with all types of polycarbonate roofing screws and can be used with both polycarbonate and other skylight material. Talk to our experienced Safety team to learn more about the Pro-Vis Safety Mesh application.
Shop now or download our brochure for more information.