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Roof Snow Removal Safety

Snow on a roof can be dangerous to leave and dangerous to remove. Because falls and collapses can be deadly, this is a job to approach with great caution.

Why is roof snow removal risky?

Roofs are slippery and often steep or high. Snow hides edges, skylights, vents and weak areas. Falls from roofs are among the most serious injuries in farm work.

Cold, wind and ice make footing worse. The job also carries risks from falling snow and ice and from power lines near buildings.

Many roof falls happen to people who intended only a quick job. If you are tempted to climb up just to clear a small patch, pause and consider what would happen if you slipped.

• Slippery and often steep surfaces
• Snow hides edges and openings
• Cold and wind reduce footing

Should you do it yourself?

For most people the safest decision is not to climb onto the roof. Fall protection, ladders, access methods and structural judgment call for training and equipment. Ask a qualified professional.

If your roof has a concern, contact a licensed contractor or structural professional and your insurance company for advice. Do not rely on memory or neighbors' tips.

A professional may use methods and equipment that homeowners and farmers do not have, such as fall protection systems. Ask what they use and what training they have.

• Falls are the main hazard
• Hidden edges and openings under snow
• Ice and wind add risk
• Power lines near buildings

How do you tell if a building is at risk?

Signs of stress can include unusual creaking, sagging, cracks, sticking doors or leaks. If you notice any of these, stay out of the building and call a qualified professional or 911 for an emergency.

Building design, age, snow type and condition vary widely, so ask a structural professional. Do not rely on general rules.

• Unusual creaking or sagging
• New cracks or leaks
• Sticking doors

What can be done from the ground?

Some farm buildings can be cleared with tools from the ground, and a professional can advise on methods that suit your roof. Always watch for falling snow and ice, and keep people and animals away from the eaves.

Never stand under a roof where snow could slide. Keep livestock away from walls and doors that open below an eave.

Remember that snow slides can bury a person standing below, injure animals and damage equipment parked near a wall. Mark the area and block off access until the snow has been cleared or has fallen.

• Keep people and animals away from eaves
• Mark danger zones near doors
• Watch for sliding snow and ice

What about power lines and equipment?

Keep tools and ladders well away from power lines. If you see damaged or low lines, stay away and call the utility and 911.

Do not use equipment, ladders or tools on ice or soft snow without training. Follow manufacturer manuals.

Metal roofs can shed snow suddenly and dangerously. Place signs and barriers near doors and walkways, and tell visitors and workers where the danger is.

What should you do after a heavy snow?

Check buildings from the outside, keep animals out of any structure you suspect, and arrange for a professional inspection if you see signs of trouble.

Make a plan before the season with your insurance agent, contractor and extension agent.

Do not ignore the weight of drifted snow, ice dams or wet snow after rain. Ask a structural professional about the particular risks for your building types.

• Look for sagging, cracks and creaking
• Keep animals out of suspect buildings
• Arrange a professional inspection
• Keep animals away from the eaves

Where can you get official guidance?

OSHA publishes fall protection and winter work information, and extension programs share snow load and building safety. Employer requirements vary by state, so confirm with OSHA and your state agency.

In an emergency, call 911.

Find a trusted contractor before winter, not during a storm. Good ones book up quickly, and having a name and number on hand gives you a safer choice.

• OSHA fall protection resources
• Your insurance agent
• A licensed contractor

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.