Working In Attics

Work in the attic early in the morning or late in the evening when the outside temperature is lower and the sun is not directly overhead.

Working in attics.

One of the main reasons for this is how hot an attic can get not only during the summer months but also throughout the year. Employees moving through these spaces may be exposed to fall hazards at the openings between truss chords. According to osha unfinished attics are chock full of hazards for home builders and homeowners. Drink plenty of water and use an osha approved particulate respirator or double strap dust mask to prevent inhalation of hazardous substances.

Working in attics protecting workers from falls while working in attics can be challenging for some employers. Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents. These gable vents can be painted to match either the siding or the trim work. Working in a low attic can be difficult.

The recent osha action clarifies the standard. They re often dark confined spaces that are hard to move around in safely. This fact sheet highlights some of the hazards of attic work and details some practical methods that employers can use to protect those who work in attics. Take precautions to avoid a dangerous working environment in the attic.

Evaluate every worksite prior to doing any work. Exposed nails cables wires low hanging rafters or cross beams hot conditions poor lighting and truss chords hidden by deep insulation can add to the risk of. During hot weather start working early as attics heat up as the day moves on. Recently we restarted our air sealing insulation articles again and in the most recent article on hot roofs we mentioned that now is a good time to work in your attic at least if you live in the south.

We all have a duty to protect ourselves and our employees. Always cover the tops of the ceiling joists to make sure the insulation is deep enough to reach your target r value and to prevent thermal bridging the heat loss that occurs through the wood framing. Deal with it if you can t. 2 drink plenty of water prior to working in the attic.

Attics crawlspaces have been covered by osha for 20 years. Working in your attic especially if it s the unfinished variety is never anyone s favorite pastime. Also remember to watch your step. Eliminate the hazard if you can.