Which material is recommended for managing slips when on sloped roofs?

The most effective choice for managing slips when on sloped roofs is rubber-soled shoes. Rubber soles provide superior traction and grip, significantly reducing the risk of slipping on various roof surfaces, especially those that may be slick. This safety feature is especially crucial when working on sloped roofs, where the angle increases the hazard posed by any loss of footing.

While other options, such as rubber mats, gravel surfaces, or textured coatings, might contribute to traction in specific applications, they do not provide the same level of personal protection as rubber-soled shoes, which are specifically designed for enhancing stability and safety for the individual working at height. Rubber mats could be used as an auxiliary safety measure on flat surfaces, and gravel or textured coatings may improve overall surface grip, but they do not address the immediate safety needs of the worker directly. Additionally, rubber-soled shoes are versatile, lightweight, and easily portable, allowing workers to have them consistently on hand for various job sites.