Austlift Roofer's Basic Height Safety Kit 915100

This roofers kit comes complete with a tradesman full-body harness, Sharp Edge Rated adjustable lanyard fall-arrest system, and tie-off anchor strap, all packed in a Dry bag backpack for convenience, suitable for any roofing application.

ROOF KIT SYSTEMS – GUIDANCE & SELECTION

UNDERSTANDING ROOF KIT SYSTEMS

Roof kit systems are widely used across Australia for general roof access and maintenance tasks. They are typically supplied with an adjustable rope or lanyard system, allowing the user to move across a roof surface while connected to an anchor point. Under AS/NZS 1891.4:2025, these systems are classified as a restraint technique system, as they rely on the user to actively manage the length of the connecting device to control fall risk.

WHY ADJUSTMENT MATTERS

Unlike fixed-length lanyards or retractable devices, roof kit systems do not limit free fall by design. The level of protection is directly dependent on the user:

• The lanyard or rope must be continuously adjusted as the user moves
• Slack in the system increases potential free fall distance
• If not correctly managed, a fall can exceed 2.0 metres, resulting in a non-compliant fall-arrest situation

This is why restraint technique systems sit at the lowest level of the hierarchy for system selection.

USING ROOF KITS SAFELY

To use a roof kit system effectively, the user must:

• Maintain the shortest practical lanyard length at all times
• Re-adjust the system every time position changes
• Be aware of anchor location and edge distance
• Consider swing fall when moving laterally across the roof
• Understand fall clearance requirements if a fall occurs

These systems require constant attention and active control - they are not a "set and forget" solution.

THE ROLE OF DIVERSION ANCHORS

AS/NZS 1891.4:2025 introduces greater emphasis on the use of diversion anchors to improve system performance. Diversion anchors are intermediate anchor points used to:

• Redirect the lanyard or rope path
• Reduce swing fall risk
• Keep the system closer to the user's working position
• Assist in maintaining a shorter, more controlled lanyard length

When used correctly, diversion anchors can significantly improve the effectiveness of a roof kit system by reducing reliance on large adjustments and helping maintain safer working geometry.

SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS

When selecting a roof kit system, consider:

• User competency and training level
• The complexity of the roof layout
• The need for frequent movement across large areas
• Surface conditions (pitch, weather, contamination)
• Availability and positioning of primary and diversion anchors

Where users are required to frequently reposition, or where there is a higher risk of misadjustment, consideration should be given to systems that:

• Limit free fall by design (e.g. retractable lanyards)
• Reduce reliance on continuous user input
• Provide more consistent fall control

TRAINING & COMPETENCY

Roof kit systems should only be used by trained and competent persons who understand:

• Fall distance and free fall limits (< 2.0 m)
• The difference between restraint and fall arrest
• How system adjustment affects safety
• The role of diversion anchors in controlling system geometry
• The importance of maintaining tension in the system

Incorrect use of adjustable systems remains one of the most common causes of non-compliant fall protection setups.

CONTROL THE SYSTEM. CONTROL THE RISK. Roof kits offer a practical and versatile solution for working at height, but their effectiveness depends on how they are used. With the right training and understanding, roof kit systems can be used safely and effectively across a wide range of applications.