Essential safety for green roofs

Today's requirement for sustainable planning and construction has seen an increase in green roofs. The benefits of this technology are substantial. As well as being aesthetically pleasing and cost effectively enhancing biodiversity, green roofs also have the benefits of increasing the life expectancy of the roof membrane, protecting it from UV degradation and weather damage, reducing fuel costs and improving air quality.

There is, however, a common misconception that green roofs are self-sustaining so do not require maintenance. This is not the case, green roofs require maintenance at least twice a year, not only to maintain the vegetation, but also to check drain outlets and fire breaks, inspect flashings, mastic and roofing as well as to clean and service rooflights, solar panels or antennae.

Maintenance requirements should be planned for at the design stage and provision made for safety systems so that this work can be carried out safely. When considering a safety system, the general rule is for collective measures such as guardrails to be the first priority, especially when those accessing the roof could have limited experience of working at height.

For occasions, such as technical or aesthetics, where collective measures are not suitable, fall restraint or fall arrest systems including roof anchors and lifelines provide an alternative solution. Ideally these systems should be used as fall restraint, preventing the user from reaching the leading edge. If, however, the user needs to work in an area where a fall is possible, the system becomes fall arrest and should only be used by those who have had training on both the equipment and rescue.

As with any form of work at height, safety on green roofs must be a priority. By considering safety at the design stage, systems can be installed before planting allowing the green roof to grow 'around' the system, making it less obtrusive but still ensuring the roof and equipment can be safely maintained.