Fragile Roof Access Systems
Most fragile roof deaths happen during short, routine jobs — not major construction. Give your team a safe route across the roof, whatever brings them up there.
- BS EN 12811-1 tested
- Portable 4m sections
- Short- or long-term use
Treat every roof as fragile until proven otherwise
A fragile roof is any surface that can't be relied on to support a person, even briefly. Common examples include fibre cement sheeting, ageing rooflights, corroded metal decking and some lightweight roofing materials.
Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, a roof should be treated as fragile until a competent person confirms otherwise. Roofs that look solid can fail without warning, especially where fixings, rooflights or older sheets have weakened.
Access systems for every fragile roof
Lightweight systems for factories, warehouses, and retail and agricultural buildings.
Board-Walk
Spreads a worker's weight across eaves, valleys and ridges, running vertically or horizontally. Portable 4m sections link quickly, with an optional handrail and integral work positioning line.
Roof-Walk
A fully guarded rolling platform on twin tracks for moving safely up and down the roof. 4.6m platform on modular 4m track sections with safety mesh and support battens.
Valley-Walk
A mobile walking frame for one or two people along valley gutters with no lifeline or guardrail. Cushioned, mesh-filled outriggers keep it stable, and it adjusts to asymmetrical valleys.
Planned properly, every time
Our fragile roof access systems are tested to BS EN 12811-1, the standard for temporary works equipment. Every job is planned in line with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.
Both require a thorough risk assessment before anyone works on or near a fragile surface, plus suitable training and supervision.
Fragile roof access in use
Board-Walk, Roof-Walk and Valley-Walk on factories, warehouses, retail and agricultural buildings.
A safe route across the roof, planned for you
Survey & risk assessment
We identify fragile areas and plan a safe access route.
Right equipment
The best mix of Board-Walk, Roof-Walk or Valley-Walk for your roof.
Deliver & install
Delivery, installation and removal for short jobs, or supply for longer-term use.
Safe systems of work
Guidance on safe working and rescue planning for anyone on a fragile roof.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about fragile roof access. Can't see yours? Our team is happy to help.
What is classed as a fragile roof?
Any roof surface that could fail under a person's weight, including fibre cement sheeting, ageing rooflights, corroded metal decking and some lightweight materials. Under UK law a roof should be assumed fragile until a competent person confirms otherwise.
How do you walk safely on a fragile roof?
Never step directly onto the fragile surface. Use equipment such as Board-Walk, Roof-Walk or Valley-Walk to spread weight across the structural supports, together with a proper risk assessment and, where needed, edge protection or a lifeline.
Are old roofs automatically fragile?
Not automatically, but age is a strong indicator. Fibre cement and older rooflights degrade and can become fragile, so a competent person should assess any older roof before work begins.
What is an example of a fragile roof?
Roofs with fibre cement (asbestos cement) sheeting, aged glass or plastic rooflights, corroded metal decking, and some built-up felt roofs where the deck has deteriorated.
Who is responsible for providing fragile roof access?
Employers and other duty holders, including contractors and building owners, wherever a risk assessment identifies the need.
How often should fragile roof access equipment be inspected?
Generally every six to twelve months, or sooner if there is any concern about its condition or a change in how it is used.
Often specified together
Roof Skylight Protection
Permanent covers and railings that stop falls through fragile skylights without blocking natural light.
Explore solution
Temporary Skylight Protection
Lightweight, reusable GRP rooflight covers for repairs, resealing, inspections and solar installs.
Explore solution
Safe Rooftop Walkway
A slip-resistant, clearly defined route across the roof that protects people and the roof surface.
Explore solutionSpeak to us about fragile roof access
Even for a short job, the right access system removes the risk of stepping onto a surface that can't take the weight. Book a site survey and quote.
- 0115 979 4523Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm
- [email protected]We reply within one working day
- Nottingham head officeServing sites UK-wide
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