Fall protection on a roof without adding any holes to the roof.

We use this technique almost daily for safe first ascents (and final descents) as well as quick repairs without making any roof penetrations when that makes sense. Sometimes we can simply swing the bean bag over the roof. Our tie off points vary from job to job of course and we don't always add the 2nd line. It just depends on the job layout. We do always have a fall protection line in place before ever stepping off of the ground. It's just simple. You will also notice that we use sternal fall arrest rings instead of dorsal rings. This requires us to keep our ropes tight (keeping any free fall to two feet or less) in order to remain OSHA compliant.

[@GreatDataVideos]

I've watched a ton of roofing videos, being a homeowner who needed to do my own roof, and I can say that nobody was better equipped for safety than you guys. I've learned a lot of tips and tricks from this video and have already bought some of the equipment that you use here. I hadn't seen a Petzl ASAP Lock before, but it's exactly what I was looking for.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

I’m so happy it’s helpful and that you are working safely. Thanks for the feedback too!

[@johnhughes3963]

Great safety tips. Painter of 44 years..understands the importance of being safe! Took a lot of risks early in my career

[@BlueGlassLLC]

I bet you did John! I took a bunch too unfortunately. Due to, “I’ll be safe.”, “It won’t happen to me.”, “It’s just going to take a moment.”, but mostly because I’d never seen anyone working safely on a roof or in residential settings. So, I didn’t know how easy it really is to work safely. With the gear available today, it’s usually just 15-30 extra minutes. Glad we are both still around to hopefully help the next generation not repeat our unnecessary risks. Thanks for commenting. Ronny.

[@montanaranger7376]

I've made a ton of money from the ideas this video gave me. Thank you.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Well that’s good news. I’m sure you helped some folks who needed you very much, and that’s even cooler, especially if you can do it safely. Thanks for being an industry role model. 👍

[@dgroofinglimiteddean3820]

I like this very clever Very fool proof Nice and simple This is safe as soon as you lift one foot of the floor I’ve been looking for a ridge system for ages

[@robbflynn4325]

Some of the guys carrying out roof repairs on our apartment block in Florida after a hurricane had no safety gear. Certain death if they fell from the roof, minimum 40 feet drop. Couldn't bear to look, and they often worked after sun down. Mostly Hispanics, boy those guys worked hard.

[@caryatid2141]

Thank you. I did this sort of thing myself, but not nearly as safely. I will do it better next time!

[@PopgoestheWiesle]

This is an awesome idea. I had some moss to clean off my roof today and did this to secure myself. It was great because I am a climber so I already had all of the materials to set this up! Thanks for sharing.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

I’m glad it was helpful. Good job staying safe while getting things done.

[@beefing313]

As a high rise window washer, preparing to do my own roof. I appreciate this video.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

I’m sure you will do a great job.

[@Jaco3688]

Bring your own bushes! Great idea!

[@beefing313]

Great video.

[@tyroneemail]

Love it. Throw in a Petzl ID on the other side and tension it up if you want a multidirectional anchorage

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Very smart Tyrone. When we do that, we also tie a figure 8 as a back up and clip it into the carabiner holding the Rig or ID. That way if we exceed the rating on the descender and it fails, we have a back up. I’m glad you brought this up. Thanks!

[@tyroneemail]

@@BlueGlassLLC Great point The 2nd generation ID and rigs recommend a slip knot for this as it tends to bind under load with the new Cam design.

[@chuckhall5347]

Great work. This is so smart. I see a lot of roofers in Cincinnati do none of this.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Thanks. Even across the nation you are correct. Roofing can be hard, low paying, fast, tiring work and often attracts folks that cannot get work easily elsewhere because of their background. These folks are also used to taking risks without complaining. Turnover is high and little attention/investment is given to proper, practical training and so roofing continues to be one of the most dangerous occupations. And almost every fall is foreseeable and preventable.

[@microcolonel]

​@@BlueGlassLLC my employer has taken to trying to threaten and ostracize me for not wanting to attend an unpaid OSHA 10-hour on the weekend with four days' notice... Meanwhile they did not provide, and likely would not provide any fall arresting equipment except under threat of a retaliation claim lol. When my next job is lined up, I'm going to assert my rights and see what happens. Also, they are violating FLSA by misclassifying full time workers as exempt. Fun times. Actual verbatim comment from the guy who trained me, after I refused to attend the unpaid mandatory weekend overtime, and informed them that I would not be paying for the course out of pocket: "maybe this line of work is not for you".

[@microcolonel]

Gets even more hilarious when you find out that their OSHA 10-hour trainer is violating OSHA's own rules on this orientation, by conducting the 10-hour in a single day, and the 30-hour with just one additional day, even though due to the 7.5h limit per calendar day, it takes a minimum of four days to complete the 30-hour outreach... It's just so meta to violate two different classes of federal regulations to force employees to attend a VOLUNTARY outreach program of a federal regulator...

[@BlueGlassLLC]

@@microcolonel The happiest people around place a higher priority on their work environment than money. I’d have to find another place to work. Life’s far too short to waste time on unwinnable battles. Good luck! Don’t die for your employer.

[@kmac0001]

What!?! I'm in cincinnati and this is my specialty. Check out Kie Height's and Construction LLC! He is very, very prepared. That comes from years of building up that climbing gear. That is NOT cheap! I've been using a DIY "big shot" to throw over but the list of things I tried before, is extensive. Lol. L

[@stinthedude]

Funny. As a tree guy I was curious how to do this and come to watch the video and recognize most of the gear and have a bunch on hand 😂😂😂

[@shawnsteen8442]

Love it! Sure beats having to set a 40' ladder on the gable so you can reach to attach a bracket. Or even worse having to plane it out to reach as high as you can. Obviously there's the potential for damage to the roof, particularly the ridge and maybe eaves. Was the metal under the rope at the peak damaged at all? I'm guessing that with the cover and as long as you don't take a fall, damage is little to none. Unlike attaching an anchor to the roof.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

We have not damaged a ridge yet, whether standing seam double lock, ridge vent, or simple asphalt shingle ridge caps. So far, we’ve found the “rope” protect suitable for every ridge except on a slate roof if the ridge is designed so that one slate extends past the ridge (this is an uncommon design in our area fortunately). Of course it’s a function of pitch and loading. The loads created by a fall or perhaps even a suspension could easily damage many ridges.

[@Jonesocinco]

Im a concrete finisher most of the time but my mother-in-law nedded a sewing studio built on her property. I just got the roof framed and im researching fall protection systems as it's a 10/12 pitch which would be the steepest roof ive yet to work on. I wish i was set up with all the cool stuff you guys use but i absolutely dont want to be a roofer cause i don't enjoy heights. Anyway great video! Wish me luck.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

We always sub out our concrete finishing so it’s done right. If we did it ourselves and made a mistake, it’d be ugly forever or have to be jack hammered up and redone. So, we decided it is just not worth the risk. I’m sure your roof will look great if you do it. But if you fell, then you won’t be able to do your paying work. Is it worth the risk? Good luck if you decide to do it. Keep your rope tight and you can never fall far if your anchor point is solid.

[@Jonesocinco]

@@BlueGlassLLC it's a small and simple roof to build it's just too steep for me to be comfortable walking on without fall protection. I'm a cautious guy who likes my life so im taking my time and doing my homework! The difficulty with concrete is the amount of time you have before it's no longer workable. The difficulty with roofing is potential death and dismemberment.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

So true. You’ll do a great job!

[@Jonesocinco]

Hey the roof turned out really good! Thank you for all of your informative videos!

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Great job! Congratulations too.

[@giriyoung108]

great video, will come back many times as I have most of this equipment minus the big shot. what would you tie your anchor into if you were in a gated backyard with no trees and couldn't get a vehicle back there to anchor into?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

We have upon occasion hauled 45 pound weights into into location, stacked them in a desired spot, slung all 225 pounds of them together with slings and carabiners and used the entire assembly as a temporary anchor so I could safely get to the top of the roof and install our V-1 anchor or V-5 permanent anchor. If doing this, it’s very important that you maintain a tight rope at all times so that you cannot put heavy load on the anchor point.

[@jcsr47]

An intro to product/system with talking through of steps to clarify what is going through your mind on task at hand

[@RobertsMind]

Great video. Thank you for the info. What is the slingshot tool you use? That would come in handy for getting leed lines onto some trees I need to cut down on my property.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

👍 It’s the Big Shot Slingshot (around $150) and is very handy. You may also want to buy an arborist beanbag and throw line. You are right Robert. It is very handy.

[@TheChaznw]

Nice video. Just what I need to get up on roof. Do you have a link to buy the red rope pad?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

If you mean the rope protect that goes over the ridge, it’s made by PMI Rope, near Atlanta. It’s a 36” Supermantle and it’s $45. It’s the best I’ve found. pmirope.com/product/pmi-supermantle-rope-guard-usa/

[@benjaminiracheta4937]

Done that a couple of times in my career, including instead of the tree tying it to the axle of my Truck, ( make sure you take the keys with you) !!!

[@davidrangel3149]

What kind of fall equipment is that I haven't seen anything like it

[@John01GM40]

marrying up rock climbing and arborist equipment to roof work was always going to be a more logical idea to my mind than screwing things into the roof and hoping you find sound wood to penetrate and then trust. wound be great to see what other ground anchors you use in the absence of a convenient tree?

[@motherfudger6664]

Upflip interviewed a roof cleaner that used his truck to tie off.

[@columbiabasincorp5685]

Tow hitches are rated, I worked for Ericsson as a tower climber, tow hitch was used often for various tasks.

[@akaredcrossbow]

@@motherfudger6664 if you use a vehicle to tie off, make sure you take the keys or hide them so nobody can move that vehicle. It happens, but rare. Customers like to move other peoples vehicles without permission if it’s in the way. They think they can, because it’s on their property.

[@motherfudger6664]

@@akaredcrossbow I'm a 1-person show and never leave my keys anywhere so that's a plus.

[@kcchiu8569]

what brand is the red rope protector ? seems bigger than anything in the market . Thank you

[@BlueGlassLLC]

PMIROPE.COM

[@compilationhero]

On the tree was that a double figure 8 on a bite then the safety knot tied below that?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Yes, I believe that’s what he did. I do mine a little differently but I believe it’s essential for the person in charge of safety at each job site to be comfortable with the entire setup. We had one person fall on a job while he was managing for us and because they did what he required, they were simply suspended, didn’t get hurt, and were back working within 30 minutes.

[@barneywing9876]

Where did you get the standoff for the ladder? I'm trying to keep the ladder off of the gutter which is scratching the aluminum and damaging the finish.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Amazon or directly from the manufacturer, Levelok ladder stand off. Probably $60. They are awesome.

[@akaredcrossbow]

OSHA has entered the chat!

[@percyfaith11]

Can this be used on an asphalt shingle roof without damage to the shingles?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Yes. However, if the pitch is very steep or someone actually falls and loads the rope, then I’d expect damage to the ridge vent (if present). We’ve not damaged shingles yet.

[@adamlacourse6739]

What is the name of the extension ladder stabilizer system that you are using?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Levelok ladder stabilizer. It’s awesome and around $50.

[@dimabe22]

really good idea you came out here guys. chapeau! Only thing I can think about is that sternal rings are only supposed to be used when doing vertical ascending, once you get to the roof you guys should switch your anchor point to the dorsal ring. This is because in case of a fall your ribs gonna broke into pieces due the gravity and acceleration forces and probably piercing your lungs... just a heads up there. Have in mind that being anchored to the dorsal ring will also give you the opportunity to try a self-rescue once you are hanging after the fall which will be impossible if you are hanging from your sternal ring.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Thanks for commenting. That’s an interesting perspective. Do you have data that supports what you believe about ribs breaking and puncturing lungs? The dorsal ring is MUCH more dangerous in my opinion for a number of reasons and therefore I won’t use it for steep pitch roof work. It may, however, be suitable for flat roof work.

[@utubewatcher360]

Excellent advise and good forethought.

[@youdoer]

Thanks. What is the black strap connected to the orange line in the picture of the setup near the end?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

If you mean the thing I set my foot it for a little better balance on the roof, it’s just an Anneau sling from Petzl connected to their Basic rope grab.

[@youdoer]

Thanks again. I want to paint my house but falling is not worth it. Someone at Menards mentioned something similar to what you shared so I am glad I found your video. Be safe.

[@adrianstaana8343]

Hi sorry for the silly question what do you call the equipment which shoots a rope over the roof?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Not a silly question at all. It’s the Bigshot Slingshot (popular arborist tool) used with Petzl’s Jet throw bag and airline.

[@ytpass4m3]

They make tree straps that wont abraid like climbing or static rope will, plus you can just tie a bunny ear climbing knot with a carabiner

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Thanks. That’d be nice to see and learn.

[@cryptobuddha2600]

Curious, how do yoi not bend a metal ridgecap putting amy kind of weight on your lines?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

That’s a great point to bring up. Thank you. I have not done this on a “modern” metal roof with a ridge cap yet. 90% of our roof work is slate. So, it’d be an interesting experiment. I believe I would use the rope as emergency fall arrest only to avoid the potential problem that you describe. I might try doubling the rope to increase the bearing surface, but it’d still be an experiment. If the roof were standing seam style (and not the exposed fastener style) then I might have to use the standing seam anchors (although I don’t like them). Excellent point you made.

[@boashna]

what's the rule for not damaging metal roof while you are walking on it . what kind a shoes is the best

[@BlueGlassLLC]

I’m not an expert on them, and there are many different types. I’ve had great success with Vans and Converse. Let us know if you find a perfect shoe.

[@boashna]

Running shoes have a good traction and sole is white or light orange .. where do you put your foot to avoid denting

[@BlueGlassLLC]

@@boashna the roofs we work on are traditional standing seam double lock roofs. They are fully decked underneath and don’t really dent. I don’t know how you avoid denting the thin cheap barn style metal roofs on the market. We don’t work on those.

[@boashna]

Thanks

[@spade304]

This method looks way better! By the way, Why did you use two ropes and not just one? Looks like the orange was long enough to reach the tree…

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Just to show folks how to set a separate rope anchor at a ridge (if you tie off both ends of the orange rope). I didn’t need the 2nd rope this time because my inspection was on this side of the ridge only.

[@spade304]

@@BlueGlassLLC Thanks for the response. Thanks to your video I’m saving some money to buy similar gear. Some roofs are super steep and this is way better than ridge pro.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

@@spade304 you’re welcome. Every piece of gear has a problem it was created to solve and the Ridge Pro helps a lot of folks with easy stuff. However it offers zero fall protection. Once you learn and practice with rope systems though, you can go anywhere and climb almost anything safely. Have fun and stay safe. 😊

[@Yodie208]

Geez dude, Back in the day,for the amount of time it took to rig all of those lines, we would have sealed the boot on that vent with roofing cement and a piece of membrane, cleaned up,had the ladder back on the truck with check in hand. That type of safety equipment did not exist in the trades, and accidents were a rarity.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

That’s wonderful. Glad it worked for y’all. Rare is great until the day you, your buddy, or your employees is one of those rarities. Then, when you are talking to their spouse to explain why you’re at the hospital, it feels a bit different.

[@age_of_reason]

Can you provide any links to the equipment?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

No. It’s all Petzl gear, PMI gear, and the Big Shot slingshot. If there’s a specific item I am happy to name it and you can find it online though.

[@peanbean1973]

Very nice.. I knew there was a simpler way for me to monkey up me moms roof to install the Christmas light hooks!! Who needs a ladder pssht...

[@Kennelmouth]

Cool. Now do one where the knots are tied on-screen.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Thanks. There are already many wonderful folks who do great knot tieing videos.

[@dylanheisz8578]

What is the equipment used in this video? Do you happen to have a list?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Mostly Petzl gear from Petzl.com. I don’t have a Iist.

[@dylanheisz8578]

@@BlueGlassLLC sounds good! I do a lot of wildlife exclusion work and these new age steel roofs with gnarly slopes are proving to be a pain. Trying to acquire a kit such as this to help me out and keep me alive! Thank ya!

[@BlueGlassLLC]

@@dylanheisz8578 I put a lot of information about the gear we use on this page of our website. www.slator-usa.com/gear-we-love.html It’s a great place to start. Stay safe! 😊

[@kmac0001]

Anyone who has never actually been on 11/12 pitch, three stories off the ground, has no clue all the little things that go into some of these steep and high roofs. There's definitely more than one way to skin a cat!

[@jonathansykes2581]

I think you could go more times round the tree in order to lessen stress on the knot in a fall.

[@dosadoodle]

The type of knot (figure 8) at 5:25 tightens in a fall and is an incredibly resilient knot that doesn't compromise the strength of the rope. I've personally taken 15-foot falls while rock climbing using that type of knot -- it just tightens and does not slip. Those ropes also look like climbing ropes, so I suspect they're rated to 4000+ pounds.

[@travissmith3720]

Getting onto the roof from the ladder looks quit dangerous , and how would you protect the ridge from getting damaged or crushed ?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

You are right. It can be dangerous. It’s more dangerous getting from the roof onto the ladder. That’s why we use fall protection, so if a mistake is made … it’s recoverable. There are multiple ridge types and metals used today. So, I cannot say what exactly will happen at the ridge. Adding a canvas rope protector on the rope across the ridge may help for the metal ridge cap styles. If your rope always remains taught, then it will minimize any large forces the rope could transfer to the ridge. The difference between a fall and a save may be as little as 20 pounds of tension on a rope. You may want to check out our V-18 permanent ridge anchor. It is designed for use on metal roof systems (and others) at Slator-USA.

[@hwypilot1]

I'm wondering why you chose to not use a Tensionless Hitch at the anchor, tied off with a locking 'biner on a Figure Eight as the backup? Especially since that allows the rope to maintain 100% of its MBS/WLL. Would also save quite a lot of rope. Just curious ✌️

[@BlueGlassLLC]

That’s a better idea. It just didn’t occur to us I guess. Not too much risk with rope strength reduction with the way we work, but I like your idea. Thanks for sharing it.

[@hwypilot1]

@@BlueGlassLLC Ah, okay. Makes sense given the light loads you're working with. Great video!

[@Sethhaun78]

You could also tie off to both chimney s a floating anchor ..giving you freedom of movement. And a alpine butterfly with biner would be much easier to tie .used daily in arborculture

[@nofurtherwest3474]

How do you tie to both a chimney and floating anchor? And btw what is a floating anchor?

[@firefoxpete4164]

Only if you are sure that the chimney can withstand a load of at least 5000lbs. per person.

[@Sethhaun78]

What are you lifting that weights that much ?? ????.just did 90ft plus redoak .the set works great

[@firefoxpete4164]

@@Sethhaun78 OSHA regulations for work related fall protection. CFR1926 Subpart M.

[@eddieflores7509]

My guys would have been done with the roof by the time you prepped all that craziness. Cool bro you know how to tie knots.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Good for you. We could do it quicker too. So what? Who cares who is the fastest? This video show’s techniques that can be used to access difficult places safely … even if it’s steeper, slicker, and 60’ to the ground.

[@JjClark-wz7eh]

Yall really can't be in any better communication than that? Wow

[@hadols4790]

What if you don't have a tree to tie off to? Also I'm not sure this is OSHA approved as the anchor should be rated for 5000 lbs?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Actually, I could do a half day class just answering these 2 good questions and going over scenarios. OSHA: They don’t actually approve anything, but I understand the question. Either something meets the OSHA standard, or it does not. Either way, if an employee gets hurt you have a problem. The anchor must meet a 5,000 pound load requirement (per person attached to it) or be capable of handling 2 times the maximum applied load. A Qualified person needs to make the determination if the anchor will meet the loading requirement and note it in their Site-Specific fall protection plan. Your other question has too many possible answers and questions for me to address.

[@hadols4790]

@@BlueGlassLLC Thanks for the reply. You should make more videos on anchors without screws or nails. Do you ever tie off to a vehicle? I understand it can be dangerous as its possible someone drives away, but it could provide another point for anchoring.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

You’re welcome. I have (kept the keys on me), but try not to. Most of my challenges are solved with a 200’ rope. Usually that’s long enough to find something better for anchoring to. @@hadols4790

[@oscarcalles7774]

We’re could I buy all this set up ?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Petzl.com for most of it, their professional division. You’ll just have to search the internet for the “Big Shot” sling shot.

[@oscarcalles7774]

Roughly how much dose they whole set up cost ?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

$1500 - $2000 for everything someone needs to be able to climb any roof and self rescue safely.

[@kenwindsoron1399]

40 years I’ve been roofing and I’ve never seen anyone wearing a helmet ever

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Right. It’s totally atypical in residential roofing. I’ve been at it for 20 years and never see (other than our team or our clients) anyone wear them on residential roofs. We wear them on every job. GC’s require everyone to wear hard hats/helmets on commercial job sites. The helmet protects our heads, have ANSI rated eye protection attached, and have helped us work by referrals only for over 10 years. We also crawl in attics and under houses. We attach headlamps to the helmets as well. If you looked at the top of my helmet, you would easily see how often I should have ducked a little lower.

[@GreatDataVideos]

That's true, but I also see many roofers without any fall protection, even on steep roofs. I like how they use arborist tech in roofing. I've used similar on my roof and it has kept me from falling multiple times.

[@RooftopWarriors]

Is that a chest mounted rope

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Yes. Petzl’s ASAP Lock system to my sternal fall arrest ring.

[@billymarkwell1105]

Thanks for the video...........great info.......only one bit of constructive criticism.......a bit more audion on what you're doing and why would have been nice....

[@BlueGlassLLC]

That’s a fair point. Thanks. I once did training for a roofing company who’s trainees spoke either English, Spanish, or Vietnamese. So I began “showing” more and speaking less.

[@Sethhaun78]

And you have a shorter version nice

[@olsenduran1019]

what kinda of slingshot is that at 0:50?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Big shot slingshot

[@SGUITAR1972]

What about a hip roof. If you throw the line over the top then walls on the perpendicular hip you can fall and the rope will follow you to the scene of the broken back.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

You are correct. Hip roofs more challenging. We have used additional ropes to triangulate an anchor point and avoid the scenario you described, but it’s a pain. Good point. Glad you brought it up.

[@firstklass8784]

Love the content, get some walkie talkies lol

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Elite arborists have helmets with headsets because communication is so critical for them. We love those but we’re not there yet.

[@elyot4010]

I was wondering how someone could work safely on a seemed roof. Good idea not anchoring off of a truck. Someone could forget and drive off at the worst time (it happens), and it frees up a truck for food runs lol

[@theroofer3181]

There's been times where I hooked up to a truck but removed the coil wire and put it in my pocket so the truck couldn't be moved. Still very stupid to do though and I would never do that again. Mind you this was over twenty years ago. :)

[@tomnutt6022]

Seen a guy dragging his dog down the road once forgot he tied his leash to the bumper

[@Luvurenemy]

@@tomnutt6022 “poor little guy…probably tried to keep up the first few yards.”

[@shawnsteen8442]

Using the truck as an anchor should be simple enough. Have the keys on a ring that doesn't easily open and loop them in with the anchor. Or just have them in your pocket on the roof.

[@TheHavocdog]

I knew of a guy who tied off to his car. While he was on the roof, his wife got in the car and with her keys, drove away. He survived but was severely injured.

[@CurmudgeonExtraordinaire]

Around 50 years ago, I was carrying shingles to the top of a 2-story house and and I'm getting back on the extension ladder, it buckled out from under me... I ended up landing head first in the bushes (holly) that was around the house, sticking out like a lawn dart... We didn't have any fall protection or safety equipment back then... Gravity sucks...

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Ouch! You are quite lucky to be around today. Thanks for sharing.

[@CurmudgeonExtraordinaire]

@@BlueGlassLLC -- Just another case of Darwin sleeping on the job... :)

[@len2858]

What is used to shoot the rope

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Big Shot slingshot with a bean bag used by arborists. Google it. The bean bag is attached to a throw line, which is used to pull the rope over.

[@dantee323]

You could also tie it off on a tow hitch or wheel if needed

[@firefoxpete4164]

And someone gets in the truck to move it, forgets that it is an anchor point?

[@Lunde1]

why don't you have coms on your helmets?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Actually, until folks began suggesting it to us on this video, it never even crossed our minds. I can certainly see how it’d be helpful sometimes.

[@AUDIOMIND]

Why hook in the front, wouldn't that hurt tremendously in the event of a fall?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

That depends on how far you fall. OSHA permits a 2’ fall from the sternal ring. In Europe, they allow a 6’ fall.

[@billyyoung622]

@@BlueGlassLLC Does osha allow anchoring to ground on opposite side like that?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

@@billyyoung622 that depends. Are the workers properly trained to identify hazards and suitable anchor points? Are they now considered to be a competent person as related to this specific situation? Has the employer retained documentation of this training? Was the training done by a qualified person? Is there a site-specific fall protection plan that allows for the use of this anchor point? OSHA should not have any objections if these questions are answered the way you would expect. However, if someone was hurt doing this, and the investigation showed that there was no training or inadequate training, then I would expect citations and fines by OSHA.

[@akaredcrossbow]

The biggest problem is, for any reason you go on the opposite side of the roof and fall, it won’t help you whatsoever.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Very true. Also true: If I close my eyes while driving, it’s likely I’ll wreck. So, situational awareness is always important.

[@shawnsteen8442]

Honestly this is a valid point. I think it would be worth considering securing both ends of the anchor line.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Yes, true. If you do that, I recommend you tie a butterfly knot and attach your actual fall protection line to the butterfly knot, then pull it into position at the ridge. Then tighten the line and secure it at both ends. Don’t do this anywhere near a gable end of the roof. We’ve done this several times. It just depends on where the repairs are necessary. If you don’t need to work on both sides of the roof, then it’s overkill. @@shawnsteen8442

[@montanaranger7376]

@@BlueGlassLLC just did a gable roof. just ran a 3rd anchor line to keep the rope from sliding off. Thank you for your videos.

[@whatmouth]

​@@BlueGlassLLC cat ladder maybe 2 mins and your done

[@pontspontbriand7723]

I think someone is familiar with rock climbing too

[@oscarcalles7774]

We’re could I buy this ?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Petzl.com

[@SM-lr6mc]

Could have walki talki to communicate with mate.

[@jamesmclaughlin7279]

2 way radios, so you don't have to yell huh.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Haha. I’ve seen them use their phones before, but I think radio’s would be nicer for communicating, but the phone can take pictures of damaged roof areas.

[@hi-ye4rz]

Why not just tie rope around the chimney

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Fair question. Though it may sometimes be a decent option … I refrain from doing it whenever possible because: A. Chimneys are oftentimes quite unstable. B. Chimneys are not designed to handle side loads, especially 5,000 pounds as desired by OSHA for an anchor point. C. Chimneys have sharp edges. D. If that’s what you learn to do, what will you do when there is no chimney available?

[@micjisters]

all that to caulk a flashing? what is that, about an 8 pitch? i would have used a foam cushion and done just fine. all that gear, i wonder if there's any room left for a tool pouch. i used to spit cedar, number 1's and shakes, we would do 3 story 12/12 spots with just our roof seats. things have changed. your WC insurance agent should be happy. stay safe.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

I watched a guy sing a song trying out for American Idol and his song lyrics go through my head regularly, it was … “Once your dead, you can’t get deader … play for keeps.” So, we approach every roof job as if we’ll fall off (even if it’s walkable). And so, two years ago when I backed off a roof thinking I was stepping to a ladder ( and the ladder was not there) fall protection saved me. Yes, we use to do stuff that was crazy. Glad you and I both survived our youth.

[@micjisters]

yes sir. thanx for not taking my comment the wrong way. i could have worded things differently and not come off like a sidewalk critic. i remember when ropes were first issued to us. we got a belt with one ring a rope and a roof anchor. we resisted. the supervisor would drive by and see ropes on the roof but nobody hooked into one. the big boss came out and said there was no longer a place for "macho risk takers" in his company. that still makes me laugh. i took my guys and went to the competition.@@BlueGlassLLC

[@firefoxpete4164]

My only critique is that those knots in the lines reduce the strength of the line.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

True. So, it’s definitely a good idea to begin strong ropes, practice work with tight ropes, and utilize a load limiting lanyard.

[@fredheslip895]

What if you don't have a tree to anchor to? Also, if the OSHA inspector shows up, how do you prove that you either have a 5000lb rated anchor point or a safety factor of 2 when you are tied off to a tree? That tree looks substantial in the video, but what if the only tree to tie off to is questionable? It also limits you to working on one side of the roof, and let's be honest, how many of your guys can you say honestly stay off of that other side of the roof when they are working?

[@BlueGlassLLC]

It would be good to show the inspector who the competent and qualified persons are on-site, documentation of the proper training they received, and a copy of your site-specific fall protection plan. OSHA allows for odd circumstances when you can show proper training and plan implementation. There was no work to do over the ridge, the plumbing boot was the only spot we needed to go. Had we needed to go to the other side, then we’d need to tie off both ends of the orange rope or we could have used a standing seam roof anchor (but I trust those much less than a good rope). It’s fairly simple to set up logical fall protection. As to your good question about how many guys …. Well, I can only speak for my team and tell you we are the most diligent and careful roofing crew I’ve ever seen and still the temptation exists … “I’m just gonna go real quick and check on… It will only take a moment… I’ll be careful…. I won’t fall … It’s not very far down…I’ve done it before….Nobody is watching….Almost quitting time…I’m running late…Just real fast…It will only take a moment…”. I’ve met at least a hundred roofers who survived falls and this was their logic. Many have friends who died after having the same thoughts. So, we take the risk seriously and have a buddy system in place to hold us accountable and hopefully resist that temptation. Good fair question Fred. Thanks for asking. Ronny. You may also want to explore our Roofing Safety Level Program on our website to see the training our team went through. www.Slator-USA.com

[@man_vs_life]

Great attitude. 11 years of roof work clearing guttering (New Zealand). We do similar ground based anchoring. Thanks for mentioning the Big Shot Slingshot - I'll look it up.

[@man_vs_life]

Great attitude. 11 years of roof work clearing guttering (New Zealand). We do similar ground based anchoring. Thanks for mentioning the Big Shot Slingshot - I'll look it up.

[@man_vs_life]

Great attitude. 11 years of roof work clearing guttering (New Zealand). We do similar ground based anchoring. Thanks for mentioning the Big Shot Slingshot - I'll look it up.

[@man_vs_life]

Great attitude. 11 years of roof work clearing guttering (New Zealand). We do similar ground based anchoring. Thanks for mentioning the Big Shot Slingshot - I'll look it up.

[@RogerPack]

tl;dr they slingshot a line over the house and attach it to a tree trunk

[@EazzyBeezie]

All that work?! Man just fall off the roof 😂 jk Good vid

[@BlueGlassLLC]

Haha! Right. After 18 years of roofing, I got distracted on a job this past summer, and stepped backwards off the roof. Thankfully, my rope was tight and the fall protection system kicked in. You never know when, just that if you do it long enough, eventually it happens.

[@EazzyBeezie]

@@BlueGlassLLC I clean roofs but the most slippy ones are tin roofs on a slant especially after spraying the bleach on them. I had a buddy on a tin roof (RIP) slip and slid all the way off the roof and feel about 20ft. Thankfully he landed upright and in a bush. Obviously he was not harnessed because he had done it so many times he had the confidence. These days I either wash them from the ground or from a ladder.

[@BlueGlassLLC]

@@EazzyBeezie That is a dangerous occupation. Best success and safety to you Brian.

[@davidbringold5715]

I like your DAILY workvideos.. WhatsApp about Ring for rescue on your ankerside? Chefs David

[@braddebaere6826]

it wasn't long after they realized 1 customer isn't worth this kind of time ...risk ...man hours...why were you on the roof again ...here enjoy ur new pole in the yard...if you don't want that get cable ...

[@utubewatcher360]

You just wasted a lot of rope and time for your figure 8 !! you had several other options to secure your safety rope to the anchor and be done with it. But that's OK as long as you are comfortable with the end results is what counts

[@Lifeofmikedixon]

😂😂😂😂

[@slater1993]

dude on the roof (is not a seasoned roofer wtf .i can think of 5 diffrent faster holeless solution to this stupid mnt climbiing over charged drill bull shatz

[@BlueGlassLLC]

What are the 5 solutions that do that as well as provide fall protection?

[@georgetsetsakos6088]

Yeah, what are these 5 solutions?

[@donttrustnobody]

Come on guys but what you used down in the links