Figures published by the Health & Safety Executive show that falls through fragile roof materials caused over one quarter of fatal accidents in the construction sector. The HSE has responded positively to an innovative new fixing system jointly developed by FILON Products and Letchworth Roofing, that is set to dramatically reduce this figure.

The new Fixsafe system allows operatives to replace roofing sheets or rooflights from below, eliminating the need to access fragile roofs. The whole operation can be carried out using safer internal access equipment, without the need for safety netting, roof staging or external scaffolding. This means that, in addition to dramatically improving safety, the system also reduces installation and access equipment costs and minimises disruption to building occupants.

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The basic concept of the system is to remove the sheet or rooflight to be replaced, by retracting it into the building. This is then used as a template for drilling the replacement sheet, prior to installing the Fixsafe fittings and securing to the roof structure.

This important development allows all those involved in repairing fragile roofs to work fully in compliance with Regulation 9 of the Working at Height Regulations, 2005.

Richard Lockwood of the Health & Safety Executive has been involved with the development of the Fixsafe system from the outset. He commented: "Falls through fragile materials have been a constant problem and a major cause of injury and death over the years. The HSE is determined to reduce these incidents to make working practices safer. With this new development the need to gain external access to the roof is taken out of the equation and this is another step along the way of saving lives."

(GK/JM)