When working on a low-slope roof, when can we use a designated area?

Designated areas are permitted only in limited situations. First, a designated area may be used if:

• Employees will be working at least 6 feet but less than 15 feet from the roof edge, and
• The work is both temporary and infrequent,

Second, if employees will be working 15 feet or more from the edge, then a designated area may be used. At this distance, there is no requirement for the work to be temporary and infrequent. In fact, if the work is both 15 feet or more from the edge AND meets the definitions for temporary and infrequent, then no fall protection is required.

Generally, temporary and infrequent means short-term work (requiring no more than an hour or two) that is done only on occasion (such as once per month, or as needed). The work should require only one trip up to the roof. An example would be changing an air conditioner filter once per month.

For work performed within 6 feet of the edge, a designated area cannot be used. Employees must use a personal fall arrest system or other protection (guardrail, travel restraint system, etc.).