The following are basic warning line setup instructions. For complete guidelines, see
OSHA 1926.501 and 1926.502 Fall Protection Standard.
1. The warning line shall be erected around all sides of the roof work area.
2. When mechanical equipment is not used, the warning line shall be erected not
less than 6 feet from the roof edge.
3. When mechanical equipment is being used, the warning line shall be erected not
less than 6 feet from the roof edge which is parallel to the direction of
mechanical equipment operation, and not less than 10 feet from the roof edge
which perpendicular to the direction of mechanical equipment operation.
4. Flags shall be rigged and supported in such a way that its lowest point in no less
than 34" and its highest point is no more that 39" from the walking
working surface.
5. When warning line is set-up as shown in figures 1-3, the line is attached at each
stanchion in such a way that pulling on one section of the line between
stanchions will not result in slack being taken up in adjacent sections before the
stanchion tips over.
6. Other trade workers may require a greater than 6 ft. setback from the roof edge.
Prior to use, consult Federal, State and local OSHA rules and regulations.