Roofer Workwear and PPE: Height Safety and Sun Kit for Australian Roofers
Written and reviewed by the Max Global Products team · Updated October 2026
Quick answer: a roofer needs fall protection where edge protection isn't in place (an AS/NZS 1891.1 harness, rope line and anchor, often sold as a roofer's kit), soft-soled boots with strong grip, cut-resistant gloves for sheet metal, polarised AS/NZS 1337.1 safety glasses against glare off Colorbond and zincalume, UPF50+ long sleeves, a brimmed hat, sunscreen and water. Heat stress is the everyday risk on Australian roofs.
The roofer's kit list
| Item | What to look for | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Roofer's harness kit | Harness, rope grab, rope line and anchor sized for roof work, in a bag that keeps it together. | LINQ essential roofers harness kit, fall protection |
| Footwear | Soft, flexible rubber sole for grip and to avoid marking sheets. Safety toe where materials are being lifted. | Safety runners, lace-up boots |
| Cut-resistant gloves | Cut level D to F for handling sheet metal, flashings and cut edges. | PIP G-Tek XTR Cut F |
| Polarised safety glasses | AS/NZS 1337.1 rated with polarised lenses to cut glare off metal roofing. | Pro Choice Frontside polarised safety glasses |
| Sun protection | UPF50+ long sleeves, a wide brim or legionnaire cap, SPF 50+ sunscreen reapplied every two hours. | Hard Yakka UPF50+ long sleeve polo, Portwest wide brim hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen 1 L |
| Heat stress gear | Cooling neck wraps or vests and electrolyte drinks. Roof surfaces can run far hotter than air temperature. | Thorzt cooling tie, hydration |
| Hearing protection | For nail guns, drop saws and grinders. | Hearing protection |
Falls and heat: the two big risks
Falls from roofs are among the most common causes of serious injury and death in Australian construction. Edge protection and safety mesh come first; harness systems are used where those controls aren't practical, and need an anchor rated for the load and a rescue plan. See Safe Work Australia on working at heights.
Heat illness builds over a day. Start early, rotate tasks, drink before you're thirsty and watch mates for confusion or stopping sweating. See working in heat.
Frequently asked questions
What do roofers wear on their feet?
Soft-soled, flexible footwear with strong grip on metal and tile. Many roofers use lightweight safety runners; lace-up boots suit tile and when carrying materials.
Do roofers have to wear a harness?
Where there is a risk of falling and no edge protection or safety mesh, yes. Australian WHS rules require fall risks to be controlled, and a harness system is used when higher-order controls aren't practical.
Why should roofers wear polarised safety glasses?
Metal roofing reflects intense glare that causes eye strain and hides hazards. Polarised lenses rated to AS/NZS 1337.1 cut glare and still protect against impact.
Outfitting a team
Roofing business? Apply for a trade account. See the full guide by trade.
Last reviewed October 2026. This guide covers common kit; your employer's risk assessment and site rules decide what is mandatory.