Working In Attics

The recent osha action clarifies the standard.

Working in attics.

Risk of falls during attic work. These gable vents can be painted to match either the siding or the trim work. 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. During hot weather start working early as attics heat up as the day moves on.

Working in your attic especially if it s the unfinished variety is never anyone s favorite pastime. 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. 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.

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. Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents. Eliminate the hazard if you can. We all have a duty to protect ourselves and our employees.

According to osha unfinished attics are chock full of hazards for home builders and homeowners. Also remember to watch your step. Take precautions to avoid a dangerous working environment in the attic. 2 drink plenty of water prior to working in the attic.

Evaluate every worksite prior to doing any work. 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. They re often dark confined spaces that are hard to move around in safely. An attic conversion is a great way to expand your home s living space but best to leave the work to a licensed contractor.

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. Working in a low attic can be difficult. Deal with it if you can t. Work from the perimeter of the attic toward the door or hatch so that you don t trample all over the insulation you just put in.