Equipment Review August 2008:
Access to the Roof
Once re-roof or new roof is completed, building maintenance crews, or future roofers are going need access to getting up on the roof for many functions. Dragging out large ladders is inconvenient and for many taller commercial buildings impractical. Therefore, either a roof hatch or outside access ladder should be installed.
From the outside of the building, it's generally preferable to install an all steel or aluminum access ladder which is bolted directly to the side of the building. These ladders come in a variety of styles and are usually custom built for the application and depending on the height may need a safety cage, locking or non-locking, boarding rails (at the top), security doors, loading pads, etc. There are also strict OSHA standards that must be utilized in the design.
All that is generally needed to build an access ladder is the dimensions from the ground to the top of the parapet or roof edge. If you know what options you'll need, a finished design to OSHA requirements can be furnished within 24 hours for your approval to begin construction. Delivery of the finished ladder usually takes about 7-10 days.
From the inside of the building, it's preferable to install a roof hatch. There are many common and stock sizes available. They are usually made of galvanized metal (stock sizes) or aluminum (custom). The door is hinged, spring-loaded and has a two-way handle lock to open from the in or outside. They're always fire-rated and again OSHA design specs apply. When dimensions are called out, the standard sizes are the ID of the hatch.
Other considerations when specifying or installing a hatch include a safety grab-bar or a safety rail system (fence) to install around the entire hatch. The grab-bar is a small handle assembly that attaches to the outside wall of the hatch. When a person exits on to the roof, instead of only having the side of the hatch to hold on too, the grab-bar is a much more substantial superstructure to support a man's full weight to pull one's self out or lower back into the building. This is a very inexpensive accessory that's in the $100-150 range and is recommended for all applications.
The safety rail system is an expensive option that protects an open hatch during maintenance. It prevents anyone from accidentally falling through an open hatch. This option will usually cost around $1200-1400, but in safety-sensitive areas may be a wise investment.
You'll also have to give consideration to how you get up to the hatch from the inside. You may just use a step ladder if it's close to a stairway or floor. Also available are industrial wall-mounted aluminum ladders that bolt directly to the side of the building. These ladders are again custom made and are generally sold by-the-foot, but are available within 2-4 days.
We usually only consider access options on to the roof for commercial building, but more often on larger residential buildings architects are specifying roof hatches, too. Don't overlook these valuable option!
This article was submitted by John MacLaughlin, National Marketing Manager with Roofmaster Product Company. Roof Master offer over 8000 roofing tools & equipment and
