Fallarrest.com has recently read a report published by the Rooflight Association and would like to provide the following information in response. Due to the rise of PV and solar panels being installed on roofs, with a high percentage of buildings that are over 25 years old, roof-lights are a huge concern and risk to personal safety and life, so this is a critical area.
We feel that it is extremely important to note, when you are reading the Rooflight Association’s report, that more rooflight covers = fewer rooflight sales.
Fallarrest.com is concerned that a critically tested safety product is being discouraged, and cannot understand why any organisation would speak negatively about products designed to protect people’s wellbeing and save lives. Time and again, we see tragic reports of falls through rooflights. These systems exist to prevent exactly that.
Let’s break down a few key points and separate fact from fiction
• Rooflight covers damage the roof
Not true for all systems. Our MESH OVERNET is fixed to the crowns on either side of the rooflight, meaning no fixings penetrate the rooflight.
• They’re difficult to maintain
False. In reality, our systems are simple to remove and reinstall. We’ve worked on roofs for 25+ years old where panels were lifted easily for maintenance and refitted in minutes.
• They cause damage or hazards
Any system can fail if installed poorly; that’s why professional installation matters. It’s no different from hiring an untrained roofer who walks all over panels. Trip hazards? The same could be said for PV panels, yet we continue to install those safely every day.
• They reduce light into buildings
Most clients tell us this simply isn’t an issue. With modern energy-efficient lighting and PV generation, natural light levels are easily supplemented.
• They’re unnecessary if rooflights are safe
It’s extremely important to note that once a rooflight leaves the factory, it’s no longer guaranteed safe, and over time, materials degrade, and risk increases.
Our (professional) view – from experience:
The reports are less about safety and more about protecting the sale of rooflights. The industry will naturally defend against products that could impact their revenue, but our only focus is on safeguarding injury and protecting lives.
At fallarrest.com and rooflightcovers.com, our advice remains consistent:
👉 Choose tested systems.
👉 Use professional installers.
👉 Do your due diligence.
Because when it comes to working at height, safety isn’t optional
Should you have any concerns or require further information and reassurance, please do not hesitate to contact us. You can also use our platforms below for further information.