Metal Flashing Safety: Sharp Edges & Wind Hazards

Key Hazards

• Cuts from sharp metal edges and corners
• Punctures from burrs, fasteners, or trimmed pieces
• Wind catching large or light sheets of flashing
• Eye injuries from metal fragments or fasteners
• Strains from awkward carrying, bending, or installation positions
• Trips or cuts from scrap pieces left in work areas

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Metal flashing safety requires controlling sharp edges, awkward material, and wind during handling, cutting, and installation. Thin flashing can cause serious cuts and can whip, twist, or pull a worker off balance when long or lightweight pieces are difficult to control.

Workers should inspect flashing before handling it. Bent corners, burrs, jagged cuts, exposed fasteners, curled edges, and damaged sections can cut hands, arms, legs, or clothing.

Gloves are usually important when handling flashing, but workers should still avoid sliding hands along edges or gripping sharp corners. Hand protection does not eliminate the need for careful handling.

Large or long pieces can be especially difficult to control outdoors. Wind can catch flashing suddenly, causing it to bend, whip, strike another worker, or pull someone toward an edge or unstable position.

Cutting, drilling, trimming, or fastening flashing can create sharp offcuts, burrs, and flying metal fragments. Eye protection should be used when fragments or fasteners could become airborne.

Body position and access should be planned before installation. Workers should avoid overreaching from ladders, roofs, scaffolds, or platforms while trying to hold or position flashing.

Scrap flashing should be collected and disposed of promptly. Thin strips, sharp corners, fasteners, and offcuts can cause cuts, puncture footwear or tires, and create trip hazards when left in work areas.

Safe metal flashing work means protecting hands and eyes, controlling sharp edges and long pieces, accounting for wind, using stable access, and removing sharp scrap as the work progresses.

Safety Reminders

• Wear gloves when handling flashing.
• Avoid sliding hands along metal edges.
• Use eye protection when cutting or fastening.
• Control long pieces in windy conditions.
• Use safe access and avoid overreaching.
• Collect sharp scraps and offcuts promptly.
• Store flashing so edges do not protrude into walkways.

Ask the Crew

• Where are the sharp edges, burrs, or corners?
• Is wind affecting control of the flashing?
• What PPE is needed for cutting or installation?
• Is safe access available for the work location?
• How will sharp scrap be collected and disposed of?