Working on a roof, whether it's a quick repair or a full installation, is always high-risk; that’s just a fact. At Apex Fibreglass Roofing Supplies, we prioritise not just high-quality materials, but also the safety of everyone using them, no matter what. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or a hands-on homeowner tackling a DIY job, no one is immune to accidents or injuries, so understanding the basics of roofing safety is critical to preventing serious injuries from occurring or, heaven forbid, even worse.

With that in mind, we gathered eight essential safety tips you should know before heading onto your roof.

1. Respect the Height

Falls from roofs or ladders are one of the leading causes of injury when it comes to construction or home improvment. Even a single misstep can result in devastating consequences. That’s why it's essential to treat every roof job with the same care and preparation, regardless of how routine it might seem.

Key Dangers Include:

1. Slippery surfaces, especially after it has rained or morning dew or in foggy, downcast weather.
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3. Unprotected edges, which can result in sudden falls after you may have taken an extra step backwards you shouldn’t have.
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5. Weak roof sections, especially on older or weather-damaged structures, sections that have not supported any heavier weight in a long time.
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2. Wear the Right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE isn’t optional or helpful convenience, it’s your first line of defence and security. Always check your gear before each job, make sure everything is in working order and not compromised in any way.

Recommended Roofing PPE:

1. Safety harness (connected to a secure anchor point)
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3. Non-slip roofing boots
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5. Helmet with chin strap so it doesn’t just slip off.
6. Gloves (to protect against cuts and hot surfaces)
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8. Protective eyewear (when cutting or using chemicals)
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10. High-visibility vest (especially on shared or commercial sites, or when working in low-visibility situations)

3. Use Proper Fall Protection Systems

Fall protection is mandatory for most roof work, at least in the UK. Depending on your site and height, this may include:

1. Guard rails or temporary edge protection
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3. Scaffolding or mobile access towers
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5. Safety nets for large-scale projects
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7. Anchored fall arrest systems for personal protection
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Never start a roofing job without the right fall protection in place, even if you think of it as just “a quick job”, things can go from fine to catastrophe in just seconds, and having a literal safety net can prevent a whole lot of serious issues from becoming serious in the first place.

4. Keep an Eye on Weather Conditions

Wind, rain, frost, and even excessive heat can make roofing dangerous. Wet or icy roofs are extremely slippery, and strong gusts can destabilise you or your tools.

Best Practice:

Check the forecast before every job. If the weather looks risky, simply reschedule. Your safety isn’t worth the gamble, and your roof will still be there the next morning.

5. Keep Your Tools and Materials Organised

Loose tools and supplies can create trip hazards, especially on angled or flat roofs, as well as perhaps falling onto the heads of unsuspecting innocents passing through below. Keep everything secured, especially:

1. Buckets of resin or topcoat
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3. Hand tools
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5. Trims and tapes
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7. Ladders and extension cords
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Using tool belts, buckets with hooks, or roof platforms can help cut down on clutter and keep you moving safely, as well as just looking the part of a serious home improver.

6. Ladder Safety Matters More Than You Think

You might be surprised to learn that many roofing accidents happen not on the roof itself, but while getting up to it. You may have seen this in numerous comedies before, so to prevent that from happening, ensure your ladder is:

1. Set on a stable, level surface
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3. Secured at the top and bottom
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5. Extended at least 1 metre above the roof edge
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7. Positioned at a safe 4:1 angle
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Always face the ladder when climbing and never carry heavy tools in your hands; you want all four limbs connected to the ladder at all times.

7. Don’t Work Alone

Working in pairs isn't just smart and more fun when it’s the right person, it's potentially life-saving. If an accident happens, having someone nearby to call for help or offer assistance may be the difference between life or death, or at the very least, some serious pain.

8. Use the Right Products the Right Way

Slips and injuries often happen when rushing or when using products you are still unfamiliar with incorrectly. Whether it’s GRP resin, topcoat, trims, or EPDM membranes, take time to:

1. Read all product instructions and pay attention closely
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3. Use catalyst and chemicals in well-ventilated areas
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5. Wear gloves and eye protection
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7. Keep surfaces clean and dry before applying
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Plan First, Work Safe

Roofing is demanding work, but with some careful preparation and the right safety practices, it doesn’t have to be dangerous. At Apex Fibreglass Roofing Supplies, we’re committed to helping both professionals and DIYers work smarter and safer.

If you are looking for advice on safe product application or the best tools for the job, simply explore our website, tutorials pages or get in touch with our team. We’re here to help, any time.

Stay safe. Work smart. And always put safety first.