Maximize Year-End Budgets: Turn Roof Safety into a Smart Investment
As the calendar year draws to a close, many facilities managers find themselves with unspent capital expenditures (CapEx) funds. This presents a prime opportunity to invest in long-term safety and compliance upgrades, particularly for your facility’s roof.
Why Roof Safety Matters
Rooftop safety is often overlooked, yet it’s critical for protecting your team and your facility. OSHA mandates fall protection for employees working at heights of 4 feet or more in general industry settings and 6 feet or more in construction. Beyond regulatory compliance, ensuring safe rooftop access reduces injury risks, minimizes liability, and demonstrates proactive facility management. Upgrading your roof’s safety features such as guardrails, walk pads and access systems, mitigate hazards like skylights, roof edges, ladders, and areas with heavy machinery.
Strategic Safety Upgrades to Maximize Your Budget
Year-end budget dollars can go a long way toward improving rooftop safety. Consider these strategic installations:
- Crossover Platforms & Stairs: Facilitate safe passage across rooftops, especially over equipment or parapets. Modular systems like ErectaStep® provide pre-engineered, bolt-together metal stairs and platforms that are OSHA-compliant, quick to install, and durable.
- Walk Pads: Protect roofing materials and provide stable footing, particularly in winter when warranties often require them.
- Safety Rails & Hatch Guards: Prevent falls around roof hatches and skylights, common hazards across facilities.
- Ladder Access Systems: Replace risky traditional ladders with systems designed for compliance and ease of use.
Spotting Risk Areas
Evaluate your roof with a critical eye. Common areas needing additional protection include:
- Ladders and hatch access points
- Loading docks and production areas
- Skylights and roof edges
- Areas with heavy machinery
Go Beyond Roof Safety: Comprehensive Building Envelope Services
Greenwood Industries can help with building upkeep beyond rooftop safety. Our roofing maintenance and repair packages provide ongoing inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs to extend roof life. Our waterproofing solutions protect structures from moisture intrusion, while historic restoration and masonry services ensure the longevity and performance of critical architectural elements. Together, these services support safe, durable, and code-compliant facilities.
Take Action: Schedule a Safety Audit
To assess your facility’s roof safety and overall envelope, consider scheduling a Safety Audit with Greenwood Industries. Our team evaluates your current systems and recommends upgrades to ensure compliance, enhance safety, and protect your investment.
Wrap-Up
Using expendable dollars to improve rooftop safety is an investment in your team, your compliance, and your facility’s long-term performance. Combine safety upgrades with proactive maintenance, waterproofing, and restoration services to maximize the value of your budget while safeguarding employees and your building.
