Spreading safety awareness in the roofing industry

In the wake of hurricanes Harvey and Irma, countless Texans are in need of new homes — but the task, of course, is easier said than done. For various reasons, including the high demand for contractors, there is now a massive shortage for construction workers in the industry.

This high demand certainly raises the stakes when it comes to supplying families and business with the shelter they need to get back to their normal lives. Roofing is already known as a dangerous job on its own, but in these recent crucial circumstances, that danger can become all the more prominent when workers feel rushed or pressured to complete projects quickly. Looking at the statistics and becoming more knowledgeable about the risks alone can prevent dangers down the road.

Preexisting Data

Safety magazine EHS Today shared a construction study that ranged from 1992 to 2009, revealing the results that one third of construction fall fatalities were from roof falls. The study indicated that those facing the highest risks for fatal falls were those in small companies, residential and immigrant construction workers. While the study may open the door for more questions than answers, it also found that most of these accidents occurred in the South.

Prevention Plans

Occupational Health and Safety also recognizes this serious issue in the construction industry, turning to recent efforts from organizations such as the Center for Construction Research to promote awareness. OHS adds that, almost every work day in America, a construction industry employee dies from a fall while on the job. Yet despite these sobering numbers, many contractors, safety programs and labor unions have collaborated to help spread awareness about the risks. In doing so, organizations such as these have the potential of preventing worker falls and saving lives.