Working In Hot Attics

Be sure that the access door is well fitted and doesn t let air escape around the edges.

Working in hot attics.

Cool air in hot air out attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents. Hang pencil and paper next to the thermometer and record the outdoor and attic temperatures. This fact sheet highlights some of the hazards of attic work and details some practical methods that employers can use to protect those who work in attics. Protecting workers from falls while working in attics can be challenging for some employers.

Air circulation alone will not keep you safe. Hang an outdoor thermometer in your attic making sure its range reaches at least 130 degrees fahrenheit. Take precautions to avoid a dangerous working environment in the attic. Working in a hot attic can lead to heat exhaustion dehydration and heat stroke if you do not take the necessary precautions to remain cool.

Drink plenty of water and use an osha approved particulate respirator or double strap dust mask to prevent inhalation of hazardous substances. The fall protection methods in this fact sheet may not be suitable in all situations. Recently we restarted our air sealing insulation articles again and in the most recent article on hot roofs we mentioned that now is a good time to work in your attic at least if you live in the south. In warmer climates you don t need to worry about condensation.

They have thermostats that turn the fan on at a recommended preset temperature of 100 110 degrees. The recent osha action clarifies the standard. Deal with it if you can t. Intake vents located at the lowest part of the roof under.

Install electric ventilators and attic fans which remove hot air from an attic. In these climates hot attic spaces are eliminated by installing a thermal barrier along the roof line instead of the attic floor. Think about how often dew forms on your grass. One of the main reasons for this is how hot an attic can get not only during the summer months but also throughout the year.

Attic fans push out the hot air and pull in the cool air from the vents installed on your roof. Evaluate every worksite prior to doing any work. Alternatively install passive vents such as gable soffit and ridge vents which are openings in the roof that allow hot air to escape. We all have a duty to protect ourselves and our employees.

Eliminate the hazard if you can. Attics crawlspaces have been covered by osha for 20 years.