A company has recieved quotes for roof access equipment which includes a horizontal fall arrest lifeline for a new building. The idea is that a trained member of staff can access the roof periodically to clear the guttering of leaves to stop the guttering getting blocked up cause water damage and leaks. with the risk of falls from height, the need for a good rescue plan, cost of training and maintaining the safety equipment i have suggested that the company look at other methods to eliminate the need for roof access and working at height all together. I think im right in saying that as part of the cdm regs at design stage all maintenance work should be designed to reduce the risk and need for personell to work at heights and in shafts etc. Can anyone else help or advise me on this topic. I have seen that there are a variety of product available to protect the guttering and stop leaf build up but am not sure how effective they will be.

Thanks for that Pete, another option to consider. If the company continues with the quote to have a safety wire installed and staff to access the roof via fixed ladders to carryout this work, is there anyone who has experience in this type of work who can advise on the content of a method statement and risk assessment. Regards