Safety Precautions - FLIR ThermaCAM BX320 User Manual

Table of Contents

7 – Introduction to building thermography

Although a basic understanding of the construction of low-slope commercial roofs is

desirable when carrying out a roof thermography inspection, expert knowledge is not

necessary. There is a large number of different design principles for low-slope com-

mercial roofs—both when it comes to material and design—and it would be impossible

for the infrared inspection person to know them all. If additional information about a

certain roof is needed, the architect or contractor of the building can usually supply

the relevant information.

Common causes of roof failure are outlined in the table below (from SPIE Thermosense

Proceedings Vol. 371 (1982), p. 177).

Cause

Poor workmanship

Roof traffic

Poor design

Trapped moisture

Materials

Age & weathering

Potential leak locations include the following:

Flashing

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Drains

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Penetrations

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Seams

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Blisters

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7.2.3.2

Recommend a minimum of two people on a roof, preferably three or more.

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Inspect the underside of the roof for structural integrity prior to walking on it.

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Avoid stepping on blisters that are common on built up bitumen and gravel roofs.

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Have a cell phone or radio available in case of emergency.

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Inform local police and plant security prior to doing nighttime roof survey.

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