If a roof is not walk-on style and a technician must walk on it, what is the recommended support?

Using plywood as support when walking on a roof that is not designed for foot traffic is recommended because it helps distribute the technician’s weight over a larger surface area. This minimizes the risk of damaging the roofing material, which may be thin or fragile, and prevents localized pressure that could lead to punctures or other types of structural failure. Plywood acts as a protective barrier, ensuring that the force exerted by the technician's weight does not compromise the integrity of the roof.

While other methods might offer some level of safety or traction, they do not provide the same level of weight distribution. Rubber mats may improve grip but will not alleviate the pressure on the roof surface, and specialized walking boards may not always be available or suitable depending on the roof's configuration. Encouraging technicians to avoid walking on roofs that are not designed for it ensures safety and the preservation of the roof's condition, but when it is absolutely necessary, using plywood is a practical solution.