Roofer Safety: The Basics for a Professional

As a roofing professional, you know that working at heights comes with risks. Safety is not just about compliance—it’s about protecting your crew, your business, and your reputation. Accidents on the job can lead to serious injuries, costly delays, and even legal trouble. By following best practices and fostering a culture of safety, you can keep your team protected while improving efficiency and professionalism.

Here’s what you need to know to make safety a priority on every job site.

Invest in proper footwear

A roofer’s footing is one of the most important factors in preventing falls. The right shoes provide grip, stability, and comfort throughout long hours on a sloped surface.

Look for roofing boots that offer:

• Strong ankle support to prevent twists and sprains
• Slip-resistant soles that grip shingles and metal roofing without causing damage
• Reinforced toes for added protection
• Ventilation to keep feet cool and reduce fatigue

Encourage your crew to replace worn-out boots regularly. A small investment in quality footwear can prevent major accidents.

Harnesses save lives—use them every time

Falls are the leading cause of roofing-related injuries and fatalities. That’s why harnesses should be standard equipment on every job, no exceptions.

A proper harness system includes:

• A full-body harness that wraps around the shoulders, waist, and legs
• A secure lanyard or lifeline anchored to a stable point on the roof
• Regular inspections to ensure straps and buckles are in good condition

It’s not enough to provide harnesses—roofing company owners and crew leaders must enforce their use. Set the expectation that safety gear is mandatory, not optional.

Secure ladders before every climb

Ladders are one of the most common job site hazards, and an unstable setup can lead to serious injuries. Proper ladder safety starts before the first step.

Ensure ladders are:

• Equipped with hooks or stabilizers to keep them from shifting
• Placed at the correct angle for secure footing
• Set on solid, level ground to prevent tipping

Train your crew to check for ladder stability every time they climb. A few extra seconds spent securing a ladder can prevent a life-threatening fall.

Install guardrails whenever possible

Temporary guardrails offer an extra layer of protection on steep or high roofs. While they aren’t always required by law, they are a smart choice for keeping your crew safe.

Guardrails act as a safety net, catching workers who lose their balance. They also allow roofers to work with more confidence, improving efficiency and reducing fatigue.

If a job site allows for guardrails, take the time to install them. The added protection is well worth the effort.

Use roof jacks and planks for better footing

For steep roofs, roof jacks and planks provide a stable, level surface to stand on. These temporary platforms make it easier to move materials, install shingles, and navigate the roof safely.

When setting up roof jacks:

• Attach them to the roof’s structural beams for maximum stability
• Use sturdy planks that can support the weight of multiple workers
• Install them strategically to allow for efficient workflow

Encouraging your team to use roof jacks on steep-slope jobs can make a big difference in both safety and productivity.

Adjust work schedules for extreme weather

Roofing in extreme temperatures comes with additional risks. High heat can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, while icy surfaces increase the chance of slips and falls.

Best practices for weather safety include:

• Providing shaded rest areas and hydration breaks in hot weather
• Rotating crews to limit sun exposure during peak heat hours
• Delaying work on icy roofs until conditions improve
• Monitoring workers for signs of heat-related illness or cold stress

A good roofing company doesn’t rush a job at the expense of safety. Make sure your team knows that their well-being comes first, even when deadlines are tight.

The role of roofing companies in job site safety

As a roofing business owner or crew leader, you set the tone for safety on every project. Your team will follow your lead, so it’s essential to create a culture where safety is a priority, not an afterthought.

Here’s how you can foster a safer work environment:

• Provide high-quality safety gear – Ensure every worker has access to harnesses, helmets, gloves, and proper footwear.
• Offer regular safety training – Hold mandatory training sessions to review best practices, OSHA regulations, and emergency procedures.
• Enforce safety policies – Make it clear that shortcuts are not acceptable. If someone isn’t using the right equipment, correct the issue immediately.
• Encourage open communication – Make sure your crew feels comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of punishment.

Investing in safety not only protects your workers but also strengthens your business. A solid safety record builds trust with clients, reduces liability, and keeps projects running smoothly.

Make safety a standard with Roofr

Roofing safety isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about professionalism, efficiency, and taking pride in the work you do. At Roofr, we support roofing companies by providing tools that streamline your business and help you deliver quality work with confidence.

From satellite imagery for accurate estimates to professional proposals that win more jobs, Roofr makes it easier to focus on what matters: running a successful and safe roofing business.

Start using Roofr today and take your roofing company to the next level.