Stand-Down Day 4 Targets Skylight, Floor and Wall Opening Risks
State officials are urging employers to strengthen fall protection measures, training and hazard awareness as roofing work increases and risks remain high.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- May 07, 2026
Washington State’s Department of Labor & Industries is urging employers and workers to take precautions to prevent falls during roofing work, one of the most hazardous tasks in construction.
The agency said falls from roofs remain a leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities, often resulting from unprotected edges, improper ladder use and lack of fall protection systems. Officials emphasized that even short-duration tasks can pose significant risks without proper safeguards.
Employers are required to ensure workers use appropriate fall protection equipment, such as guardrails, safety nets or personal fall arrest systems, depending on the job. The agency also stressed the importance of training, hazard assessments and proper ladder setup before work begins.
State officials said increased awareness and adherence to safety requirements are critical to reducing preventable incidents, particularly as roofing activity increases during warmer months.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.