Safety Alert 127 | Working at Heights

What is Working at Heights?

Working at Heights applies to a person when there is a risk of falling two (2) metres or more. This includes tasks performed above ground level, such as on ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or elevated platforms. It also includes work near holes or edges where there is a risk of falling.

How to Reduce Risk

• Asses the task – use a SWMS or JHA to Identify areas that have a high risk and use control measures to mitigate the danger.
• Implement control measures - like edge protection devices, fall prevention systems, fall arrest devices, scaffolding, work positioning system, guardrails and barriers where applicable to create a safer work environment.
• Plan the job – always use the safest method to complete the work. This means that if the work can be completed from ground level without hinderance, then it should be.
• Use proper equipment – use correct equipment for the job being done, platforms, ladders, and personal protective equipment (PPE) where suitable and avoid using worn equipment
• Team training – employees working at heights should have prior training with a ticket held to prove it has been passed and understand the work they’re undertaking

Fall Systems and their Differences

Understanding the types of fall protection systems is crucial:

• Fall prevention systems - These eliminate the risk of falling (e.g., guardrails, work platforms).
• Fall restraint systems - These limit movement, preventing workers from reaching a fall hazard (e.g., harness with a fixed length lanyard).
• Fall arrest systems - These stop a fall in progress and reduce impact (e.g., harness with shock-absorbing lanyard or self-retracting lifeline).
• Each system must be correctly selected based on the task, height, and environment.

When using a harness

• Inspect before use - Check for frayed straps, rusted buckles, and damage.
• Fit correctly - Ensure the harness fits well and all buckles are secured remembering that one size does not fit everyone.
• Anchor properly - Connect to a certified anchor point rated for fall arrest and if necessary, use more than one anchor point
• Use the right gear - Match the harness with suitable lanyards, connectors, and lifelines.
• Be familiar with the rescue plan – Ensure a rescue plan is in place in the event of a fall and understand potential swing hazards to avoid striking nearby objects during a fall.
• Find the total fall clearance needed: Length of lanyard/rope + Length of arrest strap + Height of person + Safety factor = total fall clearance

For further information or feedback regarding this Safety Alert, please contact EGT on (08) 6241 6100 or talk to your Field Officer.