Skylights are not just another pretty face (architectural feature). They reduce dependence on artificial lighting, thus lowering electric bills. Some skylights can be opened to bring in fresh air. Buildings with skylights may qualify for LEED and other green building certifications.
The benefits to workers are more profound. Daylight from above aligns with workers’ circadian rhythm, producing better sleep, improved health, and reduced fatigue. Exposure to natural light reduces stress, heightens mood, and boosts productivity. Skylights give you a reason to look up.
The potential disadvantage of skylights does not come from above; it comes from below. Warehouses rely on skylights to brighten spaces throughout their facility. However, skylights are a fall hazard for technicians inspecting, monitoring, and maintaining HVAC units, solar panels, and other rooftop building services equipment.
Whether made of plastic, glass, or fiberglass, skylights are designed to admit sunlight—not to support the weight of a worker. A single misstep can turn a natural-lighting feature into a serious liability.
What does OSHA say about skylights?
OSHA considers a skylight a hole in the roof. Under 29 OSHA CFR 1910.28(b)(3)(i), employers must protect workers from falling through any hole—“including skylights,”—4 feet or more above a lower level.
This makes warehouse skylight safety both a compliance issue and an obligation to safeguard workers. OSHA makes it clear that skylights must be protected with engineered barriers such as skylight covers (1910.28(b)(3)(i)(A)) and skylight guardrails (1910.28(b)(3)(i)(B)).
OSHA regulations 1926.502(i) further specify that covers (including screens) must:
- Support at least twice the maximum intended load.
- Be secured against accidental displacement.
- Remain strong enough to prevent failure if stepped on or fallen against.
OSHA’s guardrail criteria (29 CFR 1910.29(b)) require:
- A top rail at 42 inches (± 3 inches) that withstands a force of 200 lbs. applied in an outward or downward force anywhere along the top rail.
- Mid-rails installed midway between the top rail and the walking-working surface.
- Intermediate vertical members installed no more than 19 inches apart.
Fall protection options for skylights.
Since OSHA explicitly states that skylight glazing—plastic domes or glass—does not qualify as a compliant cover, warehouse employers must install dedicated skylight fall protection systems.
Skylight screens (or covers) sit directly over the skylight opening, forming a strong, sturdy barrier designed to stop a fall. Constructed of corrosion-resistant stainless steel or aluminum, they allow full sunlight to shine through while meeting OSHA regulations for load support.
These safety screens are engineered for new builds or retrofit applications and are clamped to skylight frames without penetrating the roof. Featuring a low-profile design, they are a practical choice for warehouses prioritizing safety and aesthetics.
Guardrails create a visible, physical barrier around the skylight opening. They are a passive fall protection system, so they do not rely on worker action, such as lifelines and training. Simply being there provides safety.
Constructed of aluminum or galvanized steel for strength, durability, and corrosion-resistance, skylight guardrails are OSHA-compliant and feature non-penetrating, weighted bases to preserve roof membrane integrity. Clamping bases are available for warehouses with standing seam metal roofs.
Some skylights function as roof hatches for ventilation or access. When opened, they create large fall hazards. Skylight hatch railings surround the opening with OSHA-compliant guardrails, safeguarding workers when the hatch is in use. A self-closing safety gate completes the perimeter protection. Hatch railings and gates are constructed of aluminum or galvanized steel and clamp securely to the hatch, so they do not penetrate the roof.
See us for your safety solutions.
Skylights should be a source of energy savings and daylight—not a hidden fall hazard. OSHA is specific in that if a skylight is not properly protected, it is considered a hole in the roof. Engineered fall protection systems, including compliant skylight covers, skylight guardrails, and skylight hatch railings, protect warehouse workers accessing the rooftop.
If you are responsible for safety and fall protection at your warehouse, contact Lighthouse Safety for safety solutions. We will discuss your concerns about regulations and what it will take for you to comply. Our services encompass everything you need, from design, engineering, and fabrication to installation, training, inspections, and other support.
