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Jokes abound about the Canadian snow and cold, but it is a big, diverse country where the average first measurable snowfall can be as early as late August in Nunavut territory or not until December in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.
Yet, the first serious storm can hit unexpectedly anywhere. Toronto typically does not see 5 cm of snow until December, but on November 10, 2025, the area was socked by a record-breaking snowfall, resulting in hundreds of vehicular accidents.
What would happen if a snowstorm arrived prematurely and your rooftop was not ready with compliant fall protection for your workers? When rooftop access is harder. When ice accumulates, visibility diminishes, and the wind whips furiously.
Fall protection before winter is essential. Rooftop maintenance tasks are hazardous enough under ideal circumstances. The best time to prepare is when conditions are still safe for a hazard assessment and installation of rooftop fall protection systems.
For facility owners and safety managers, you should not ask if you will need rooftop access during harsh winter weather. Your concern is whether your existing fall protection can handle the job. Winter conditions:
A comprehensive rooftop fall protection strategy should cover all access points and work areas. Before the snow arrives, use this checklist to ensure your facility is prepared.
1. Protect Roof Edges
The most fundamental step is to guard against falls from edges by installing non-penetrating guardrails for rooftops in Canada. Constructed of aluminum or galvanized steel for strength, durability, and corrosion-resistance, these systems collectively safeguard your workers and protect your roof membrane. Existing systems should be inspected for loose fittings and to analyze their structural integrity.
2. Ensure Skylight Fall Protection
Skylights are fragile surfaces that let in sun and fresh air but may not support the weight of a worker. Install secure, corrosion-resistant skylight screens or roof dome guardrails that are securely in place to prevent falls through snow-covered skylights.
3. Provide Secure Access
Roof hatches need dedicated protection for safe egress and ingress. A roof hatch kit surrounds the hatch with non-penetrating guardrails and a self-closing safety gate, so the opening is always protected.
4. Create Safe & Clear Paths
Snow and ice can obscure the safest routes, leading workers to take risky shortcuts. Roof walkway systems with anti-slip, self-draining aluminum or glass-reinforced nylon treads establish dedicated pathways. They safeguard workers and protect roofs from foot traffic. (Walkways can also be fitted with guardrails for added fall protection.) For navigating over pipes, conduits, or cables, mini-stepovers offer a simple and safe crossover solution.
5. Elevate Workstation Safety
HVAC units, solar panels, and other building services equipment must be inspected and maintained year-round. For stable, ergonomic access during the winter, modular work access platforms feature anti-slip steps and decks, plus integrated guardrails to reach elevated areas and perform tasks with efficiency and precision.
6. Use Lifelines & Anchors for Winter Duty
Horizontal lifelines with certified anchor points are crucial for tasks requiring mobility and where guardrails or other barriers are not feasible. Rigid post anchors are designed for permanent installation—new construction or retrofit—while counterweight mobile anchors can be placed and repositioned on flat or low-sloped roofs. Before winter is an ideal time to inspect lifeline connections and cable tension, and to review worker training and rescue protocols.
Proactive winter roof safety planning is designed to protect workers, avoid operational downtime, and stay aligned with federal and provincial safety regulations. Before frost arrives, schedule inspections, upgrade outdated systems, and ensure your safety measures are winter-ready. By addressing rooftop maintenance safety now, you ensure fall protection compliance throughout the winter – and throughout the spring, summer, and fall, during the legendary Canadian warmth.
Don't leave your workers' safety to chance. Download this white paper now and equip yourself with the knowledge to protect your team this winter. Ensure your rooftop is not just ready for the season—but ready to keep everyone safe.