Don’t Wait for OSHA to Find It: 5 Roof Access Violations You Can Fix Today
- Michele Oras
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
Some safety issues are easy to overlook—until OSHA shows up. If your facility has roof access, there are five common violations that could cost you in fines, liability, or worse.
The good news? Each one has a simple, code-compliant fix.
1. Open Roof Hatches Without Guardrails
Violation: OSHA 1910.28(b)(3)(iv) requires roof hatch openings to be guarded by a railing and self-closing gate when the cover is open.
The Risk: A 36" opening in the middle of the roof is a fall hazard—even if no one is actively climbing.
The Fix: LadderPort Caged Roof Hatch Grab Bars with optional self-closing gate. Always in place, always OSHA compliant—even if the hatch is left open.
2. Extension Ladders That Aren’t Secured
Violation: OSHA 1926.1053(b)(1) mandates ladders be secured to prevent displacement.
The Risk: A shifting or falling ladder puts workers at serious risk—and exposes you to fines and claims.
The Fix: LadderPort Ladder Receiver. Permanently anchors extension ladders in place for safe, repeatable access without needing a full fixed ladder.
3. Makeshift Lifting Systems
Violation: OSHA 1926.251(c)(4) prohibits use of makeshift rigging for material hoisting.
The Risk: A dropped load can injure workers or damage critical equipment. Even worse, makeshift systems often don’t meet rated capacities.
The Fix: Cranky Portable Winch & Post. Designed for controlled rooftop lifting up to 300 lbs. OSHA-compliant and safe for daily use.
4. Hatches Too Close to the Roof Edge
Violation: If a hatch is within 10 feet of a roof edge, a full guardrail system with gate is required.
The Risk: Workers climbing in or out of the hatch are exposed to fall hazards near the unprotected edge. Without a guardrail system around the hatch, even one misstep could lead to a serious fall.
The Fix: LadderPort Caged Roof Hatch Grab Bars with gate provide the OSHA-required edge protection. Always in place, compliant, and a clean solution—no custom fabrication needed.
5. Relying on Memory or Removable Safety Equipment
Violation: Not a specific OSHA rule—but a common cause of noncompliance.
The Risk: If your system depends on someone remembering to latch a gate, raise a post, or carry a tie-off—something will be missed.
The Fix: LadderPort systems are always in place, always reliable. No moving parts. No human error.
Don’t wait for a violation notice. Call (800) 770-8851 or visit ladderport.com to fix roof access issues before they become citations.
Sources:
