“Star Wars” fans can debate whether Luke Skywalker crossed over to the Dark Side. However, building owners and facility managers agree that safe roof access and fall protection for their workers require a more practical and tangible crossover.

Roof crossover platforms are an easy way to overcome roof obstacles, obstructions, and changes in height. A simple, secure system consists of bases supporting uprights to brace railings and stairs leading up to and down a platform.

Since every roof is different, a modular design concept for a roof access platform allows for off-the-shelf and site-designed solutions. Ease of installation and durability are also important factors for roof access or crossover platforms.

A commercial, institutional, or industrial (CII) roof can have a host of trip hazards, including HVAC ducts, cables, control joints, drains, vents, piping, and other impediments. Rooftop crossovers enable workers to navigate a safe route over roofing hazards.

Although pipes, ducts, and the like are obstacles to workers, they are critical to the operation of the building. Roof platforms can also protect equipment from being damaged by workers and their tools.

Split-level buildings and height changes are other roof areas where a safe access platform can help considerably with fall prevention. Roof platforms featuring a modular design can best accommodate differences in elevation.

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