Even though some jobs and some situations are still subject to question and controversy, we now assume fall protection is a routine and necessary part of our lives in the roofing industry.

We will discuss two new schemes, both developed by former contractors, that answer a couple of basic questions. The first is one that the industry has struggled with for many decades: “OK, I will tie off when near the roof edge on this low-slope roof. Now would you tell me where to do that? And will it provide a proper and sufficient anchor?” The next question involves an emerging trend, long ago recognized by OSHA, and that is: “OK, Mr. Building Owner. The contractors are gone, but your maintenance people are still on the roof hanging around the edges, climbing up through hatches, and milling around skylight and other roof openings. How are you protecting them from falls?”