OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewFocus Four HazardsMedium
A worker is installing a roof on a new residential building. The roof has a pitch of 6:12 (meaning it rises 6 inches vertically for every 12 inches horizontally). The eave height is 18 feet. According to OSHA, what type of fall protection is generally required for work on this roof?
- ASafety net system
- BGuardrail system
- CPersonal fall arrest system
- DWarning line system
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Personal fall arrest system
OSHA defines a steep roof as one with a pitch greater than 4:12. For work on steep roofs, workers are generally required to use a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) or a safety net system. While guardrails can be used if feasible, PFAS is a primary and common method for steep roof work.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Safety net systems are an acceptable form of fall protection, but PFAS is also commonly used and often more practical for residential roofing.
- B. Guardrail systems can be difficult to install effectively and are not always practical on steep roofs, though acceptable if feasible.
- D. Warning line systems are typically for low-slope roofs (4:12 or less) and do not provide sufficient protection for steep roofs.
Steep Roof Fall Protection
For roofs with a pitch greater than 4:12, OSHA requires fall protection such as personal fall arrest systems or safety net systems.
- Steep roof = pitch > 4:12.
- PFAS is a common and effective method.
- Guardrails can be used if feasible, but often impractical.
Memory trick: Flat roof is lines, steep roof is harness or nets!