June Is National Safety Month – And It’s Time to Pay Attention
Every June, the roofing industry highlights National Safety Month to bring awareness to the risks roofers face and the importance of proper safety practices. But this conversation isn’t just for roofing companies – it’s for you too: the building owner, facility manager, architect, or general contractor. Because if something goes wrong on your roof, you could be the one left holding the liability.
At GSM Roofing, safety is more than a box to check. It’s a culture. And during National Safety Month, we’re calling attention to what separates responsible roofing contractors from dangerous ones — and why that distinction matters to you.
Why Roof Safety Should Matter to You
As a facility manager, if your roofing contractor has a safety incident, it could shut down access, delay other scheduled maintenance, or increase insurance rates for your facility. Accidents mean downtime—and downtime hits your budget.
As a building owner, you might think you’re not responsible for what happens on your roof. But you can be held liable if a worker is injured on-site, especially if the contractor lacks proper training, coverage, or safety compliance.
As an architect, specifying a safe, reliable contractor protects your design and reputation. Architects aligned with high-performing contractors build trust and avoid costly errors or delays due to safety violations.
As a general contractor, your subcontractors are a reflection of your jobsite. Bringing in an unsafe roofing team puts your project timeline, inspections, and reputation at risk. Safety-forward partners keep your schedule and your professional standing intact.
The Hidden Risk of Choosing the Cheapest Bid
We get it. Budgets are tight. But if a roofing estimate seems suspiciously low, it’s worth asking: what corners are they cutting?
Roofing companies that skimp on safety training, proper equipment, or insurance can pass those “savings” on to you. Until something goes wrong. Then those savings quickly vanish in the face of fines, legal fees, or injury settlements.
When comparing bids, ask these questions:
- Does the contractor have OSHA-certified employees?
- Are they NRCA ProCertified?
- Do they conduct daily safety talks?
- Can they provide their EMR (Experience Modification Rate)?
If they can’t answer these questions, your budget isn’t protected—it’s exposed.
You Could Be Held Liable, Too
A truly safe roofing company won’t just say they prioritize safety—they’ll prove it. Look for:
- OSHA 10/30 certified crews
- NRCA ProCertified technicians
- Documented site safety plans
- Daily toolbox talks
- Clean safety record (low EMR)
- Use of safety equipment like fall protection, barriers, and warning lines
- Options like drone inspections and infrared scans to reduce risk
GSM Roofing invests in our team so your jobsite is protected. We believe safety is a shared responsibility—and one we take seriously. We practice roofing safety at all times and never make any exceptions.
Would You Let This Happen on Your Roof?
Turkey Hill Roof – No Fall Protection
Issue: No visible harnesses or guardrails on steep slope above active gas station.
Risk: Severe fall potential, public liability, OSHA fines.
GSM Approach: Full fall protection and controlled zones around public areas.
No PPE and Poor Weather Conditions
Issue: Worker present during rain without PPE or visibility gear.
Risk: Slips, miscommunication, injury.
GSM Approach: Mandatory PPE for all employees and visitors.
No Edge Protection on Flat Roof
Issue: No guardrails or visible fall restraint; cluttered workspace.
Risk: Trip and fall hazards, material blow-off. GSM Approach: Edge protection, house-keeping protocols, and tool control.
Steep Roof + No Harness
Issue: Worker standing unrestrained on roof deck.
Risk: Fatal fall risk.
GSM Approach: Harnesses and anchors on all elevated work.
Walking a Roof Ridge Unsecured
Issue: Crew walking ridge with no tie-off. Risk: Fall exposure on both sides.
GSM Approach: Tie-off protocols and training in ridge access safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Safety
What safety certifications should a roofing contractor have?
Look for OSHA 10/30 certifications, NRCA ProCertification, and a strong EMR (Experience Modification Rate). These indicate the contractor prioritizes worker safety and ongoing training.
Can a building owner or general contractor be held liable for a roofer’s accident?
Yes. Under OSHA’s Multi-Employer Worksite Policy, responsibility can extend to building owners and general contractors—especially if safety violations were overlooked or the contractor was not properly vetted.
Is it risky to hire the cheapest roofing contractor?
Often, yes. Low bids may reflect cost-cutting on safety training, insurance, or equipment—leading to higher long-term costs in the form of liability, delays, or rework.
How can I confirm a contractor takes safety seriously?
Ask for documentation—EMR score, safety training records, written safety plan, and examples of site-specific precautions like fall protection and PPE protocols.
Why is roof safety important for flat roofs?
Falls from flat roofs are still dangerous, and trip hazards, edge exposure, and unprotected tools can lead to serious accidents. OSHA requires fall protection on flat roofs above 6 feet.
Final Thoughts: Safety Is a Shared Responsibility
Cutting corners on safety doesn’t just hurt workers—it puts your team, your timeline, and your reputation at risk.
Hiring the cheapest contractor might save money upfront, but long-term it could cost far more in liability, delays, or damage.
At GSM Roofing, we believe safety is a non-negotiable part of doing the job right. Because when we protect our crews, we protect your people and your property, too.
Ready to partner with a roofing company that puts safety first?
Contact GSM Roofing today or learn about our Preventive Maintenance Programs that help extend your roof’s life while reducing risk.