Abstract: Employee #1 was taking roof measurements so he could place 2 by 2 horizontal cleats for metal tile roof installation. He was walking backward proceeding south along the edge of the 5:12 pitch roof of a single-story residence. He was measuring 14 1/2 in. intervals. Employee #1 misjudged the distance to the end of the roof and stepped off. He fell 8 ft 10 in. to the concrete patio, sustaining a broken nose, a fractured skull, broken teeth, and a dislocated jaw. He was hospitalized from November 28 to December 3, 1991. When the employer became aware that Employee #1 was hospitalized more than 24 hours, he notified CAL/OSHA. Because the fall distance did not exceed 20 ft, no fall protection was required.