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Holiday lighting can be a demanding task. It is typically required by many customers around the same time and comes with several risk factors we will discuss below.
Areas to Consider:
Ladder Safety:
Ensure the ladders used are in good condition and set up on a solid stable base. Avoid carrying tools or light strands up the ladder. Instead, use a hook and pulley to attach and pull lights up once on the roof. Always use three points of contact when ascending and descending. Make sure they are extended properly and locked into place. Avoid overreaching when working from the ladder.
Fall Protection:
Temporary residential fall protection can be a challenge however, it is one worth tackling to prevent serious injury or death. Anyone working at heights should have appropriate fall protection. This can be achieved with a harness, lanyard, and an appropriate anchor.
- There are eve-anchor systems that can be attached to each side of the home for a horizontal line to be strung from. The worker then attaches to this line.
- Also available are many types of permanent or temporary roof anchors that can be installed and attached to.
Material Handling:
Lighting can be planned out and positioned on the ground in appropriate order before starting. Extension poles can be used to assist the roof worker in maneuvering the lighting into position. Other tools and equipment can be hooked onto the worker before ascending or descending the ladder.
Personal Protective Equipment:
Workers on the ground should wear hard hats to protect them from falling objects. Workers on the roof should have custom roofing shoes with extra grip padding.
Another area to note is the weather. Ensure appropriate layered clothing, protective head, and face gear as well as gloves are worn to protect from the cold. Hand warmers can be used and breaks to warm up should be taken when needed.