The Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association (MCRMA) has published a new advice note entitled: ‘AN 06 Safe working practices on roofs: the distinction between ‘walkable’ and ‘non-fragility’’.
Two commonly used phrases used within the roofing industry to describe two specific aspects of roofing systems, products and components are ‘walkable’ and ‘non-fragile’. The phrases are not the same and are not interchangeable in scope or in their meaning; this document is intended to remind all those involved in roof work construction that they have a responsibility to be aware of the most up-to-date advice on safe working practices, and also to be compliant with the legal requirements.
In accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Construction (Design and Management) or CDM Regulations, buildings must be designed with safety in mind, not only for the construction period itself but also throughout the normal life of the building. This will include considering the safety of people involved in maintenance, installation of PVs, forming of penetrations, inspections, repair and even demolition.
The document is available for download at www.mcrma.co.uk.
