A roof hatch is necessary to provide a safe, convenient place where workers can get up onto the roof in a safe manner. This access ladder point is the safest way to access the roof. For added convenience, an access ladder can be installed that is easy to operate and only requires one hand.
The roof hatch is constructed from galvanized steel, aluminium or stainless steel and has a dome cover. This brings in the natural sunlight and improves lighting conditions. In today’s article, we’ll explain more about what a roof access hatch is and why it’s important for any building to have one.
Roof Access Hatch Defined
When workers need to carry out repairs on the roof, they need a safe way to onto the roof. A standard ladder that you lean against a building isn’t sturdy enough. That is why a special access point is necessary. A roof access hatch allows workers to get onto a flat roof in the safest manner.
In the past, workers used a fixed cage ladder that was mounted to the outside of the building. Unfortunately, the ladder access point did nothing to improve the appearance of the building and the climb proved difficult for some workers.
A change needed to be made! And that is how the roof access hatch came about.
Advantages of Roof Access Hatches
Roof access hatches offer a safe way to access the rooftops of buildings. The main advantage is that you only need to bridge one floor. This means that the worker will be able to climb indoors. If there is an existing staircase this can be used to reach the top floor of the building.
From the first floor to the roof is only 2.5 to 3 meters which makes the climb a great deal easier. Other advantages of an access hatch are the following:
- Less expensive: A roof access point is much less expensive than installing a fixed cage ladder. It’s made from different materials so there is one to suit every budget.
- No heat loss: If you use a roof access point, you can install a skylight. This point is the highest point of the building. Hot air rises so it will be the warmest point. By closing off this point you won’t waste energy by heating the entire open space in the roof.
- Easy to install: The hatch is delivered fully assembled so all you need to do is mount it into the correct place.
- Won’t close accidentally: A roof access hatch is a safe access point that won’t slam down on you during high winds.
- Customized options: Access ladders come in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can be rectangular, square or round and can be customised to suit your requirements.
Why Are They Important?
The main purpose of a roof access hatch is so that workers can easily and safely access the roof. The best type of roof hatch is the kind that allows sunlight to enter the building. This improves lighting conditions and makes climbing much easier.
The access hatch should be weather-resistant and have special safety features that prevent slipping. The correct hatch will help limit work-related injuries. They need to comply with special Australian safety laws and regulations.
These roof hatches are durable and carry an internal locking capability to prevent access for security reasons.
What to Look for in a Roof Access Ladder
If work needs to be carried out above the ground or higher than 19 meters the regulations require you to provide workers with a roof access ladder. There needs to be at least two access points that are kept free from any obstructions.
The ladder needs to be inspected for any damage, and the rungs tested to make sure there are no issues. The rungs must be covered with an anti-slip surface for added safety.
Extremely tall ladders should also be fitted with a fall arrest system.
Advantages of Roof Access Ladders
The main advantage of a roof access ladder is to assist workers and help them safely access the roof. The number of ladders you will need will depend on a few factors:
- The height of the roof
- How many staff members will be using the ladder
- If there’s more than one area you need to access
Ladders must only be used by authorised personnel. When they aren’t in use, the ladder should be barricaded or have a locked access gate. This is so it can’t be used without permission. The roof should also be fitted with an edge guardrail for fall protection and added safety precautions.
Other advantages include:
- Faster access to the roof
- Easy to customise to suit each job requirements
- Can be enclosed with a cage and self-closing gates to prevent unauthorised access
Final Thoughts
Roof access hatches are important safety features that are required by law to protect workers. If work needs to be carried out on the roof, an access ladder and hatch ensure that workers can easily carry out the necessary repairs.
This is an important safety feature that shouldn’t be overlooked.