HSE data reveals that falls from height are the leading cause of fatal workplace injuries in the UK, accounting for over a quarter of fatal injuries to workers in 2024/25. Whether you’re operating a data centre, warehouse, hospital, or manufacturing site, it’s vital that your personnel can access your roof safely when carrying out routine inspections and repair work. But with so many roof access systems in the UK, how do you know which one to choose?
In this guide, we break down the key differences between the three main roof access systems to help you identify the right solution for your facility.
What is a roof access system?
A roof access system is a combination of equipment that’s designed to provide safe access to elevated or rooftop areas for inspection, maintenance, and repair work. These systems can include ladders, walkways, guardrails, and platforms.
Roof access systems play a key role in protecting workers from falls and ensuring compliance with The Work at Height Regulations 2005. They also help to preserve the structural integrity of your roof by preventing unnecessary damage during routine work.
At Katt Safety, our safe rooftop systems are specifically designed to meet these needs. Let’s explore each system in more detail.
The different types of roof access systems in the UK
Fixed access ladders
A fixed ladder safety system allows your staff members to safely reach elevated areas including plant rooms, roof hatches, and maintenance zones. Our fixed access ladders are ideal for both industrial and commercial buildings that require frequent access to rooftop plant and equipment such as HVAC units, fans, or solar panels.
Why choose our fixed access ladders?
- Our fixed access ladders are designed and manufactured in accordance with BS 4211:2005 and BS EN ISO 14122-4:2016, so you can rest assured that your system is fully compliant with all relevant safety standards.
- Every ladder in our range is crafted from high-strength aluminium but is still exceptionally lightweight, making them quick and easy to install on-site.
- Each system is fully resistant to corrosion and requires minimal maintenance over its lifespan, helping to save you money in the long run.
- Our customisable access ladders can be supplied with walkway attachments, cages, safety gates, ladder mounts, and other accessories to suit your specific site requirements.
Roof walkway systems
Once workers are on the roof, it’s important that they can move around safely and that the roof surface is protected from damage. That’s where our fixed and loose-lay walkway systems come in. These safe rooftop systems are suitable for a wide range of roof types, providing a designated, slip-resistant path for operatives to follow – helping to reduce the risk of damage and accidents during routine maintenance.
Why choose our roof walkway systems?
- Our fixed and loose-lay roof walkway systems are compliant with all the relevant technical standards, including BS EN ISO 14122-3:2016, BS 4592-1:2006, and BS EN 516:2006.
- Each system is designed with a multi-directional, non-slip surface that ensures secure footing for your workers, even in adverse weather conditions.
- They help to preserve the integrity of your roof, preventing damage to roof membranes and panels by ensuring weight is evenly distributed across the surface.
- Our roof walkways are suitable for all roof types. They fix to standing seam roofs or to R panel room systems and can also be mounted on membrane and built-up roof systems.
Modular roof access systems
If your roof layout has multiple levels, complex pipework, or obstructions, a modular roof access system could be the perfect solution for you. Our access platforms and stairs are specifically engineered to create secure routes over obstacles, roof changes, or service lines, helping to keep your team safe and productive while carrying out essential maintenance tasks.
Why choose our modular roof access systems?
- Our modular roof access solutions are supplied in pre-assembled sections which can be fastened together with secure fixings, making them quick and easy to install on site.
- Each system features variable stair angles and tread spacing which can be easily adjusted to suit your exact requirements.
- The stairs and platforms are manufactured from high grade structural aluminium, while the fixing brackets, joining plates, and support feet are engineered from profiled stainless steel.
- All modular roof access solutions can be combined with our guardrails and walkway systems to create a complete, compliant safety solution for your site.
Comparing our roof access systems
| System | Key features | Best for |
| Fixed access ladders | Strong yet lightweight, customisable, minimal maintenance required | Straightforward roof access |
| Roof walkway systems | Flexible configuration, slip-resistant, protects the roof surface | Ensuring safe movement across rooftops |
| Modular roof access platforms | Simple installation, easy to adjust, ideal for complex site layouts | Providing access over obstacles or level changes |
If you’re managing a facility with a combination of these needs, we can design a complete safe rooftop system that integrates all three of our solutions, ensuring compliance and safety for every area of your roof.
Create a safer rooftop with Katt Safety
At Katt Safety, we deliver modular, compliant, and low-maintenance roof access systems in the UK that protect both your people and your assets. We also offer free take-offs from drawings, so you can accurately plan and budget for your rooftop safety project. Whether you need a single ladder or a complete roof access strategy, we can design a system that’s tailored to your specific site needs, so you can focus on your day-to-day business activities without worrying about your team’s safety.
Contact us today to discuss your project requirements or request a free quote.
