This Code of Practice for Safe Work on Roofs – Part 1: Commercial and Industrial Buildings (the Code) provides clients, employers, self-employed persons, contractors, subcontractors and workers with practical advice on preventing injury to persons engaged in work on roofs. This edition of the Code replaces and revokes the version published in 1993. It has been updated to reflect changes in legislation and industry practice since that time.

The Code has been developed by an industry working party and has involved extensive consultation with construction industry stakeholders.

The scope of the Code:

a. applies to the planning, preparation and conduct of work for the installation and maintenance of roofs, the maintenance of roof-mounted equipment and structures, the removal of roof coverings, and the movement of those working on roofs, on commercial and industrial buildings
b. does not apply to work carried out by emergency service personnel – including the state emergency service, fire, police and ambulance personnel – as part of emergency procedures
c. does not apply to work associated with the erection of the roof supporting structure.

This is an industry code of practice approved by the Minister under section 43 of the OHS Act on the recommendation of WorkCover NSW.

The Code takes effect on 1 October 2009.

The Code incorporates several Australian Standards, listed under ‘further information’ at the end of this document.