Method Statement : Cleaning of Roof

Explanation

The cleaning of roofs using a pressure washer with long reach poles and a rotary surface cleaner is a task aimed at maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the roof. This process involves the removal of dirt, debris, moss, and algae that can accumulate over time, potentially causing damage or reducing the lifespan of the roofing materials. The operation is conducted from ground level or a scaffold tower to ensure safety while providing effective cleaning. The use of specialised equipment allows for thorough cleaning without the need for direct access to the roof surface, thereby minimising the risk of falls and other associated hazards.

Responsibilities

• Site Manager: Ensure all safety protocols and procedures are in place and adhered to during the roof cleaning process.
• Health and Safety Officer: Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Supervisor: Oversee the cleaning operation, ensuring that all workers are following safe working practises.
• Operative: Use pressure washers and equipment safely, adhering to training and instructions provided.
• Equipment Inspector: Check all equipment, including pressure washers and scaffold towers, for safety and functionality before use.
• First Aider: Provide immediate medical assistance in case of an accident or injury on site.

Equipment

• Pressure washer
• Long reach poles
• Rotary surface cleaner
• Scaffold tower
• Safety harness
• Hard hat
• Non-slip footwear
• Safety goggles
• Gloves
• High-visibility clothing

Operation

• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement control measures.
• Ensure all personnel involved are trained and competent in the use of pressure washers and working at height.
• Inspect the roof for structural integrity and any potential hazards, such as loose tiles or debris.
• Verify weather conditions are suitable for roof cleaning activities.
• Inspect all equipment, including pressure washers, long reach poles, and rotary surface cleaners, for any damage or defects.
• Set up appropriate access equipment, such as scaffold towers, ensuring they are stable, secure, and comply with safety standards.
• Establish a safe work area by cordoning off the site with warning signs and barriers to prevent unauthorised access.
• Ensure all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and worn by workers, including helmets, gloves, eye protection, and non-slip footwear.
• Identify and mark any overhead power lines or electrical hazards in the vicinity.
• Develop an emergency plan, including procedures for rescue in the event of a fall or other incident.
• Communicate the plan and safety procedures to all personnel involved in the task.
• Conduct a test run of the pressure washer and rotary surface cleaner to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• Begin cleaning from the highest point of the roof and work downwards, maintaining a safe distance from the edge.
• Use controlled movements to avoid overreaching or losing balance while operating the equipment.
• Continuously assess weather conditions for any changes that may affect safety, such as increased wind or rain.
• Maintain clear communication with team members throughout the task to ensure coordination and address any issues promptly.
• Take regular breaks to prevent fatigue, especially when working in extreme temperatures or for extended periods.
• Once cleaning is complete, carefully disassemble equipment and inspect for any damage.
• Ensure the work area is left clean and free of hazards.
• Conduct a post-task review to evaluate the task and identify any areas for improvement in safety procedures or equipment use.

Risk Assessment : Cleaning of Roof

Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Scaffold tower users | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Use a scaffold tower with guardrails to provide a stable working platform.
• Ensure all workers are equipped with and use appropriate fall arrest systems, such as harnesses and lanyards.
• Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential fall hazards before commencing work.
• Install temporary edge protection or barriers around the roof perimeter where feasible.
• Provide training for workers on safe working at height practises and emergency procedures.
• Ensure that all access equipment, such as ladders and scaffold towers, is inspected and maintained regularly.
• Limit roof access to authorised personnel who have received adequate training.
• Implement a buddy system to ensure workers are not working alone at height.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Slippery surfaces : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Scaffold tower users

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure all workers wear non-slip footwear to provide better traction on wet or moss-covered surfaces.
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the roof surface prior to cleaning to identify and address any particularly slippery areas.
• Utilise scaffold towers or other stable platforms to minimise direct contact with slippery roof surfaces.
• Schedule cleaning activities during dry weather conditions to reduce the likelihood of slippery surfaces.
• Implement a buddy system where workers assist each other in maintaining balance and stability on the roof.
• Use safety harnesses and fall arrest systems to prevent falls in case of slips.
• Apply anti-slip treatments or mats on particularly hazardous areas of the roof where feasible.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Manual handling : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Scaffold tower assemblers | Equipment handlers

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Use lightweight, extendable poles to minimise the need for lifting heavy equipment.
• Ensure all equipment is transported to the roof using mechanical aids or hoists where possible.
• Provide training on proper lifting techniques and safe manual handling practises.
• Limit the weight of equipment and materials carried by individuals to reduce strain.
• Organise work areas to minimise the need for carrying equipment over long distances.
• Encourage team lifting for heavier items to distribute the load among multiple workers.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Chemical exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Nearby workers

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis | Eye Damage | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all workers are trained in the safe handling and use of cleaning chemicals specific to roof cleaning.
• Use only cleaning agents that are appropriate for the roof material and are less hazardous.
• Provide and enforce the use of appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, when handling chemicals.
• Implement a system for safe storage and labelling of chemicals to prevent accidental misuse or exposure.
• Ensure proper ventilation when using chemicals to prevent inhalation of fumes, especially in enclosed areas.
• Establish emergency procedures for chemical spills, including access to spill kits and first aid measures.
• Conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work to identify potential chemical hazards and implement necessary controls.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Electrical hazards : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Scaffold tower users | Ground-level workers

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure all electrical equipment used is properly insulated and maintained to prevent electrical faults.
• Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines, adhering to regulatory guidelines for clearance.
• Use non-conductive tools and equipment to minimise the risk of electrical shock.
• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential electrical hazards before commencing work.
• Ensure all workers are trained in recognising and avoiding electrical hazards specific to roof cleaning.
• Implement a lockout/tagout procedure for any electrical systems that may be affected during cleaning.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as rubber gloves and boots, when working near electrical sources.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Weather conditions : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Scaffold tower users

Type of harm: Cold / Pneumonia | Heat Stroke / Exhaustion | Illness

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Monitor weather forecasts and postpone roof cleaning during adverse conditions such as high winds, heavy rain, or extreme temperatures.
• Ensure workers are equipped with appropriate clothing and PPE to protect against weather-related risks, such as waterproof gear and thermal clothing.
• Implement a wind speed limit policy, ceasing operations if wind speeds exceed safe levels for working at height.
• Establish a communication plan to quickly relay weather updates and instructions to all personnel involved in the roof cleaning task.
• Schedule roof cleaning activities during times of day when weather conditions are most stable and predictable.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Structural integrity : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Maintenance personnel | Scaffold tower users

Type of harm: Crush / Entrapment | Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Conduct a thorough inspection of the roof to identify any weak or damaged areas before commencing work.
• Ensure that only trained personnel assess the structural integrity of the roof prior to cleaning.
• Use lightweight equipment to minimise additional load on the roof structure.
• Avoid working on roofs with known structural issues until repairs have been completed.
• Implement a permit-to-work system to ensure all safety checks are completed before accessing the roof.
• Limit the number of workers on the roof at any one time to reduce stress on the structure.
• Regularly review and update risk assessments to reflect any changes in roof condition.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Equipment malfunction : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Scaffold tower users | Ground-level workers | Bystanders or pedestrians

Type of harm: Cuts and Abrasions | Electrocution | Eye Damage | Head Injury | Permanent Hearing Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of pressure washers and long reach poles to ensure they are in good working condition.
• Use equipment that is specifically designed for roof cleaning to minimise the risk of malfunction.
• Train workers on the proper use and handling of pressure washers and long reach poles to prevent misuse.
• Implement a pre-use checklist for equipment to identify any potential faults before commencing work.
• Ensure that all equipment is operated within the manufacturer’s specified limits and guidelines.
• Provide workers with training on emergency procedures in case of equipment failure during roof cleaning.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Noise exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Nearby workers on site

Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all workers use appropriate hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, when operating pressure washers.
• Limit the duration of exposure to noise by implementing work rotation schedules for workers using noisy equipment.
• Conduct regular maintenance and servicing of pressure washers to ensure they operate at optimal noise levels.
• Position workers at a safe distance from the noise source whenever possible to reduce exposure.
• Provide training to workers on the risks of noise exposure and the correct use of hearing protection equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Flying debris : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives | Ground-level workers | Bystanders or pedestrians

Type of harm: Cuts and Abrasions | Eye Damage | Head Injury

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all workers and bystanders wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety goggles and helmets, to protect against flying debris.
• Establish a clear exclusion zone around the work area to prevent unauthorised access and protect bystanders from debris.
• Use barriers or netting to contain debris within the work area and prevent it from falling to the ground.
• Inspect and maintain equipment regularly to ensure it is functioning correctly and not causing excessive debris.
• Conduct a thorough risk assessment prior to commencing work to identify potential sources of debris and implement appropriate controls.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

COSHH Assessment : Cleaning of Roof

Cleaning chemicals

Cleaning chemicals are intended to effectively remove dirt, debris, and organic growth from roof surfaces, ensuring a clean and safe environment.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning workers

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Asphyxia | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse fumes.
• Use cleaning chemicals with low volatility to minimise vapour release.
• Provide and enforce the use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment.
• Implement safe storage practises to prevent accidental release of vapours.
• Train workers on the proper handling and use of cleaning chemicals.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent chemical splashes.
• Ensure proper training on the safe handling and application of cleaning chemicals.
• Use cleaning chemicals in well-ventilated areas to reduce exposure.
• Store cleaning chemicals securely to prevent accidental spills or splashes.
• Have an eyewash station readily accessible in case of accidental exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning operatives

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Wear appropriate chemical-resistant gloves to prevent direct skin exposure.
• Use long-sleeved clothing to minimise skin contact with cleaning chemicals.
• Apply barrier creams to exposed skin areas as an additional protective measure.
• Ensure proper training on safe handling and application of cleaning chemicals.
• Provide access to washing facilities for immediate decontamination if contact occurs.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Mould and mildew

Mould and mildew are not intended for use; rather, they are biological hazards that may be encountered on roofs, requiring careful removal to prevent health risks.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning workers | Nearby site personnel | Occupants of the building

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Use appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) such as masks or respirators to prevent inhalation of mould spores.
• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse airborne mould spores.
• Utilise wet cleaning methods to minimise the release of mould spores into the air.
• Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify areas with high concentrations of mould and mildew.
• Implement regular monitoring of air quality to detect elevated levels of mould spores.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning workers | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Wear safety goggles to prevent mould spores from contacting eyes.
• Use a face shield in addition to goggles for enhanced protection.
• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce airborne mould concentration near eyes.
• Avoid touching eyes with hands or gloves contaminated with mould.
• Rinse eyes immediately with clean water if contact with mould occurs.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning workers | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Wear appropriate gloves to prevent direct contact with mould and mildew.
• Use long-sleeved clothing to minimise skin exposure during cleaning.
• Apply barrier creams to exposed skin areas as an additional protective layer.
• Ensure proper hygiene by washing hands and exposed skin thoroughly after task completion.
• Dispose of contaminated clothing safely to prevent further skin contact.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Bird droppings

Bird droppings are not intended for use; rather, they are a potential hazard during roof cleaning due to the presence of harmful pathogens that can lead to respiratory illnesses.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning workers | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) such as a P3 mask to prevent inhalation of airborne particles.
• Dampen bird droppings with water before removal to minimise dust generation.
• Use mechanical methods, such as vacuum systems with HEPA filters, to safely remove droppings.
• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse airborne contaminants.
• Implement exclusion zones to prevent unauthorised personnel from entering the work area.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Ingestion : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning workers

Type of harm: Illness

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure workers wear gloves to prevent hand-to-mouth transfer of pathogens.
• Provide handwashing facilities with soap and water for use after handling droppings.
• Implement a no-eating or drinking policy in areas where droppings are present.
• Train workers on the risks of ingestion and proper hygiene practises.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning workers

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Wear safety goggles to prevent droppings from entering the eyes.
• Use a face shield in conjunction with goggles for additional protection.
• Ensure proper hand hygiene to avoid transferring droppings to the eyes.
• Implement safe work practises to minimise disturbance of droppings.
• Provide training on the risks and protective measures related to bird droppings.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Roof cleaning personnel

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Wear disposable gloves to prevent direct contact with bird droppings.
• Use long-handled tools to minimise the need for direct handling.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling droppings.
• Dispose of contaminated clothing or equipment in sealed bags.
• Apply barrier creams to exposed skin areas before commencing work.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Toolbox Talk : Cleaning of Roof

Introduction

The cleaning of roofs using a pressure washer with long reach poles and a rotary surface cleaner is a task aimed at maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the roof. This process involves the removal of dirt, debris, moss, and algae that can accumulate over time, potentially causing damage or reducing the lifespan of the roofing materials. The operation is conducted from ground level or a scaffold tower to ensure safety while providing effective cleaning. The use of specialised equipment allows for thorough cleaning without the need for direct access to the roof surface, thereby minimising the risk of falls and other associated hazards.

Hazards

The primary hazards associated with cleaning a roof using a pressure washer with long reach poles and a rotary surface cleaner include the risk of falls from height, particularly when working from a scaffold tower. There is also a significant risk of slips, trips, and falls due to wet and slippery surfaces. Manual handling hazards arise from lifting and manoeuvring the equipment, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. The use of high-pressure water jets poses a risk of injury if not handled correctly. Additionally, there is potential exposure to hazardous substances from cleaning agents. Electrical hazards must be considered, especially in proximity to overhead power lines or electrical installations. Weather conditions such as wind or rain can further exacerbate these risks, while ensuring safe access and egress is crucial to prevent accidents. Proper training, supervision, and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment are essential to mitigate these dangers.

Cleaning of Roof : Rules

• Do conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work.
• Do ensure all workers are trained and competent in using pressure washers and long reach poles.
• Do inspect equipment, including pressure washers and poles, for any damage or defects before use.
• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, gloves, eye protection, and non-slip footwear.
• Do secure the work area to prevent unauthorised access.
• Do use a scaffold tower that is properly erected and stable if working from height.
• Do maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines and electrical equipment.
• Do ensure weather conditions are suitable for roof cleaning activities.
• Do communicate clearly with team members to coordinate tasks safely.
• Do follow manufacturer’s instructions for the safe operation of pressure washers and rotary surface cleaners.
• Do ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation on the roof.
• Do take regular breaks to prevent fatigue and maintain focus on safety.

Cleaning of Roof : Warnings

• Do not work on the roof during adverse weather conditions, such as high winds or rain.
• Do not use damaged or faulty equipment, including pressure washers and poles.
• Do not work alone; always ensure there is a colleague present for assistance.
• Do not overreach or lean excessively when using long reach poles.
• Do not use makeshift platforms; only use approved scaffold towers or access equipment.
• Do not ignore the need for personal protective equipment, such as helmets and non-slip footwear.
• Do not operate pressure washers near electrical hazards without proper precautions.
• Do not leave equipment unattended in areas where it may pose a trip hazard.
• Do not use cleaning chemicals without understanding their safety data sheets.
• Do not bypass safety procedures or take shortcuts to save time.

Induction Record

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Location:		Contract No:

Subject:	Risk Assessment and Method Statement : Cleaning of Roof	Tutor:
Date:		Signature:

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