Information previously included as a fact sheet about avoiding skylight falls has been updated and posted as a web page by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). This safety-focused web page provides statistics about falls and offers tips for avoiding them.

“The issue of fall protection is not a new one, and every fall fatality is avoidable,” said John Westerfield of CrystaLite, chair of the Skylight Fall Protection Task Group, which led efforts to develop the web page. “Fall protection needs to be a continued focus for employers and building owners post-construction, as many non-construction related tradesmen often access flat roofs.”

Currently, there is no standardized method for testing a skylight for its ability to withstand an impact from a falling human. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and similar authorities, have established regulations – but the skylight industry generally agrees that they are vague and open to different interpretations. ASTM has drafted a standard and test method to validate the ability of a skylight or related product to support the effect of the impact from a large male, and an extensive review process is underway.

“The AAMA Skylight/Sloped Glazing Council has worked for over 30 years to establish performance standards and design guidelines in which safety has been an important consideration,” Westerfield added. “Manufacturer members of the council have been proactive in improving the safety performance of their products.”

Visit aamanet.org/PreventSkylightFalls to view resource.