This Roof Safety Mesh Installation SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to install temporary roof safety mesh under battens or purlins as passive fall prevention before and during roof sheeting or re-roofing. It covers checking the roof structure and mesh type, rolling out, fixing and overlapping mesh, protecting skylights and openings, exclusion zones below and covering the mesh promptly. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Roofing contractors and roof sheeting installers
Re-roofing and roof replacement businesses
Residential and commercial builders
Roof plumbers working on new roofs
Carpentry and framing crews
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Falling through unsheeted battens or purlins before mesh is installed
Fragile roofing, skylights or roof lights mistaken for solid roofing
Unprotected roof edges and openings not covered by mesh
Tools, materials or offcuts dropped from the roof
Mesh failing due to poor fixing, short overlaps, damage or corrosion
Overloading the mesh by standing on it or placing materials on it
Slips and trips on wet, dusty or uneven roof surfaces
Cuts from mesh ends, wire ties and sharp roofing edges
Sun exposure, heat stress, wind and rain at height
What's included
10 pre-operational checks, from training and rescue planning to mesh type, skylights, weather and exclusion zones
An 11-step operating procedure covering access, rolling out, fixing and overlapping mesh, covering penetrations and sheeting over
Isolation and energy control through an exclusion zone with barriers and signage below the work area
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for falls through the roof or mesh, engaged fall-arrest devices and sudden bad weather
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Roofing SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Can workers walk on the mesh once it's installed?
No. The SOP states workers must not walk, stand, kneel or place tools or materials on the mesh at any point. It's a fall prevention control, not a working platform.
Can we use reinforcing mesh or bird wire instead?
No. The checks require workers to confirm the product is compliant roof safety mesh, not bird wire, reinforcing mesh or any other product.
Does it cover roof plumbing or truss installation?
No. Roof plumbing, guttering, downpipes and roof truss installation are covered by separate SOPs.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
