Accumulation of snow and ice on a roof can lead to the roof's collapse. A person who climbs onto the roof to clear snow is at risk for a number of injuries.
The main hazard is fall.
The risk of falling from a roof increases with:
(1) snow accumulation > 12 inches
(2) the presence of ice
(3) the slope of the roof
(4) complexity of the roof (different levels, etc)
(5) inexperience
(6) poor visibility
(7) intoxication
(8) failure to use safety equipment
Fall-related injuries may include:
(1) extremity fracture
(2) vertebral fracture
(3) head injury
(4) soft tissue injuries
(5) lacerations
Additional factors affecting a fall from the roof:
(1) the height of the fall and the level of ground around the house
(2) objects around the house to break the fall
(3) objects around the house that could impale
Other hazards:
(1) electrocution from electrical wires
(2) snow shovel injuries
(3) acute myocardial infarction
(4) back injury
