Roof Inspection, Downpipes and Guttering, and Height Safety Systems Guidelines
For the purposes of this policy, 'working at heights’ means working in any place where there is a risk of falling more than 2 metres, measured from the soles of the feet to the ground. This also applies in situations that involve a hole, trench, or pit where a person could fall more than 2 metres. All working at heights related work must be identified, and associated hazards and risks must be managed and controlled, in accordance with the guidance contained in this chapter and the Prevention of Falls when Working at Heights policy. The principal or their delegate is responsible for identifying tasks that involve working at heights and implementing appropriate safety controls, which includes during the inspection activities discussed in this guidance chapter. This guidance chapter should be read in conjunction with the Prevention of Falls when Working at Heights Procedure which provides further details for ensuring the safety of anyone engaging in working at heights tasks on school grounds.
Roof inspection
Schools must arrange annual visual inspections of school roofs to identify and address potential safety hazards and structural issues. These inspections must be completed by a competent person who is able to work safely at heights, which is generally a qualified roof plumber.
These inspections are essential for preventing water ingress, which can cause significant damage to school buildings, including structural deterioration, health hazards like mould growth, and risks associated with electrical system failures. The inspection process involves the following key steps.
Step 1 – Ensure safety controls
Before any roof maintenance, ensure all necessary safety measures are in place. This includes setting up ladders or other height-access equipment, using personal protective equipment (PPE) like safety harnesses, hard hats, and non-slip shoes, and cordoning off the area below the roof to prevent unauthorized access.
Step 2 – Inspect roof fixtures and flashings
Check roof fixtures such as gutters, downpipes, skylights, and roof vents for damage or wear. Inspect flashings and sealants for integrity, ensuring they are watertight. Remove any debris like dirt, moss, or leaf litter to prevent premature wear, and repair or replace any damaged components.
Step 3 - Check fascias and fixings
Examine the fascia, eaves, and soffits, particularly around fixings like nails, screws, and bolts, for signs of rust, rot, or structural weakness. Repair or replace any compromised fixings to ensure the roof’s structural integrity.
Step 4 - Inspect roof cladding
Assess the roof cladding, including iron sheeting and tiles, for any signs of damage such as cracks, looseness, or corrosion. Ensure that all fasteners are secure and replace or repair any damaged cladding to prevent water ingress.
Step 5 – Assess structural integrity
Examine the roof surface for structural issues such as cracking, lifting, or sagging, paying special attention to areas around chimneys, flues, and skylights. Address any identified issues to maintain the roof's overall integrity and prevent further damage.
Extra care should be taken when inspecting areas with roof penetrations (for example, for equipment or ductwork), as these are vulnerable to leaks and require careful inspection to prevent water ingress.
Despite regular inspection, maintenance and repairs, roofs can fail in the event of extreme weather events. Should the school notice, or be notified of major roof leaks or flooding during severe weather or torrential rains, schools must secure and evacuate the area and call MakeSafe as soon as practical.
Downpipes and guttering
Schools must arrange annual inspections and cleaning of school downpipes and gutters to prevent blockages and ensure the efficient discharge of rainwater from roofs. Blocked or damaged gutters and downpipes can cause water overflow, leading to staining, damage to eaves and soffits, and potential water ingress into school buildings.
The inspection and maintenance process includes the following steps.
Step 1 – Ensure safety controls
Before starting any inspection or cleaning of gutters and downpipes, ensure that all necessary safety measures are in place. This includes using ladders or other height-access equipment, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety harnesses, hard hats, gloves, and non-slip shoes, and cordoning off the area below the roof to prevent unauthorized access.
Step 2 – Inspect gutter and downpipe condition
Thoroughly check the condition of all guttering, downpipes, and rain heads for leaks, corrosion, or damage. Pay special attention to joints, pops, mitres, and fixings, as well as internal and box gutters. Ensure that rain heads are free of damage or obstructions and that all connections between gutters, downpipes, and stormwater drains are watertight and functioning properly.
Step 3 – Remove debris
Clear leaves and other debris from gutters and downpipes using appropriate tools like scoops or trowels. Gloves should be worn to protect against sharp edges. If debris is dry, a leaf blower can be used, but be mindful of the mess it may create on the ground. All cleared debris should be bagged and properly disposed of to prevent it from causing blockages in the stormwater system.
Step 4 – Repair damage
Address any damage found during the inspection. Replace any damaged gutters, downpipes, or fixings, ensuring that all components are securely fastened and in good condition. Treat any corrosion and repair leaks using suitable materials like silicone or anti-corrosion treatments. Replace screws and rivets if they show signs of wear or corrosion. Schools in Bushfire At-Risk Areas (BARR) may also require additional inspections during summer months as per the Bushfire and Grassfire Preparedness policy.
Height safety systems
Schools that have height safety equipment and systems must arrange height safety systems inspections in accordance with the below guidance.
Roof anchor points are equipment typically installed on roofs or other places where work is conducted at heights. These roof anchor points are an anchoring system for workers to connect height safety equipment (such as lanyards or lifelines) and aid in fall restraint and fall arrest. Roof anchor points are crucial for tasks involving heights, such as roof maintenance, air conditioner servicing, and gutter cleaning.
Height safety system – recertification
Existing roof anchor points must be recertified by a professional height safety specialist at least annually or when a safety issue is suspected.
To organise a height safety system audit for recertification, schools must take the following steps.
Step 1 – Engage a certified contractor
Contact an external contractor specializing in height safety system recertification. If needed, use the ‘HEIGHTSAFETY’ option in the ‘Trade Type’ column of AIMS under ‘Contractors’ to find qualified companies.
Step 2 – Schedule and plan the work
Arrange a time, date, and estimated cost for the recertification work. Book the contractor and complete the necessary induction process. Review the Prevention of Falls when Working at Heights policy as part of the preparation.
Step 3 – Obtain compliance documentation
After the work is completed, ensure the school receives a report and certificate of compliance. Schools must save these documents to 'School Documents' on AIMS and keep a hard copy in the office for records.
For full guidance on height safety system recertification refer to the Routine Maintenance Tasks Guides (also available on the Resources tab).
Height safety system – harnesses (6-monthly inspection)
Regular 6-monthly inspections of harnesses by a qualified inspector are required to check for damage to buckles, webbing, D-rings, and associated fittings like lanyards, snap hooks, shock absorbers, carabiners and anchors. Harnesses and associated equipment must also be visually inspected before and after each use.
Check the harness (minimum of every 6 months)
- Inspect buckles, webbing, D-rings, and the manufacturer’s label/manual.
- Do not use the harness if it is damaged or worn.
- Ensure buckles are secure, and check for any frayed, cracked, or damaged webbing and loose or broken stitching.
- Inspect D-rings for any signs of damage.
Check associated fittings
Lanyard inspection
- Inspect the entire length of the lanyard, paying attention to eye splices.
- For three-strand rope lanyards, carefully twist the rope open to check for worn, broken, or cut fibers without overtwisting.
- Discard web lanyards if they have cuts, holes, or damaged stitching. Do not use if any deterioration or damage is found.
Snap hooks
- Ensure snap hooks are self-locking to prevent accidental roll-out.
- Inspect for any potential issues with small D-rings or other hardware that could cause the snap-hook gate to open.
Shock absorbers
- Shock absorbers reduce the force of a fall. They are often made of tear webbing, which absorbs impact by progressively tearing apart during a fall.
- Check the label for maximum elongation, and account for this extra fall distance in your personal fall protection system.
Carabiners
- Ensure carabiners have self-closing and self-locking gates, a breaking strength of at least 22 kN (5,000 lb), and that the manufacturer’s identity and load capacity are clearly marked.
- Inspect carabiners before each use to ensure they are free of damage, deformities, or excessive wear.
Anchors
Anchors, which secure your lanyard or lifeline, are critical to any fall protection system. They can be straps or slings attached to a structural member or a manufactured component that is permanently or temporarily fixed to a structure.
Repair as required
- Remove any damaged or unsafe equipment from service immediately.
- Document the results of all inspections.
- Engage a professional repairer to make necessary repairs to ensure the harness and associated fittings are safe for use.
Schools are strongly encouraged to prioritise the maintenance of existing systems and to seek the advice of the VSBA in instances where a contractor proposes installation of new anchor points and height safety systems.
For full guidance on inspecting roofs, downpipes and guttering, height safety systems and harnesses refer to the Routine Maintenance Tasks Guides (also available on the Resources tab).
Contacts
Schools may contact the School Asset Leadership Unit for any additional support: schoolasset.leadership@education.vic.gov.au
Central and regional offices provide a range of supports and services to assist principals and employees to be safe and well, including access to the OHS Advisory Service and local regional officers who can provide free advice on managing risks related to working at heights including where contractors are engaged to undertake the inspection activities detailed in this policy.
Reviewed 19 August 2024