Haz-Ed’s working at heights frequently asked questions

Working at heights frequently asked questions

Table of Contents

1. What training topics and information will be included in a working at heights training program?
2. What safety precautions should be taken when using an Elevating Work Platform (EWP)?
3. What are the requirements for the inspection of fall injury prevention systems?
4. What are the requirements for edge protection?
5. What are the requirements for working on brittle or fragile roofing?
6. When is a ladder right for a job?
7. How do you decide if someone is ‘competent’ to work at height?
8. How long is working at heights training valid?
9. If I have a Working at Heights qualification am I qualified to decide on appropriate anchor points for attaching harnesses?
10. What am I qualified to do if I have a working at heights qualification?
11. Is the Haz-Ed Working at Heights qualification accepted in all states?
12. How often do I have to refresh my Working at Heights course?

1. What training topics and information will be included in a working at heights training program?

The Haz-Ed working at heights safety training course covers a range of safety issues relating to heights. The course will cover:
• Legislation, Codes of practice and Australian Standards relating to working at height
• Safety practices to implement systems to prevent falls
• How forces are generated in falls
• Correct selection and use of anchor points
• Safe methods of working at height or on brittle surfaces
• Emergency procedures and hazard reporting
• Proper use, care and storage of equipment for working at heights
• Safe height and reach of using Elevating Work Platforms (EWP)
• Safe working load of the EWP unit
• Safe ground conditions for the EWP unit
• Position of overhead power lines and other electrical hazards

2. What safety precautions should be taken when using an Elevating Work Platform (EWP)?

When using a EWP unit it is important to consider:
• The height and reach of the unit,
• The type of work you will be completing
• Safe working load of the unit
• Ground conditions
• Power lines or other hazards
According to the Australian Government department of Mines Industry Regulations and Safety the following precautions should be taken;
• Operator and personnel are appropriately trained for EWP
• The EWP is checked for safety prior to use
• Support surface for the EWP is free of penetrations and is preferably flat
• Pneumatic tyres are in good condition and free of defects
• Any travel when the platform is raised is in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Harnesses are connected and worn at all times if a boom-type EWP is used

3. What are the requirements for the inspection of fall injury prevention systems?

A competent person inspects fall injury prevention systems prior to any work commencing.

4. How do you decide if someone is ‘competent’ to work at height?

Someone is competent to work at heights if they have sufficient skills, knowledge and experience.
Depending on the technicality of the task will indicate the level of competence required.

5. What are the requirements for edge protection?

The Occupational Safety and Health Regulations require that edge protection must be provided to the edge of the following:
• Scaffold
• Fixed stair
• Landing
• Suspended slab
• Formwork
• Falsework in the workplace
When a person is at risk of falling two or more metres is when appropriate edge protection and safety equipment should be used.

6. What are the requirements for working on brittle or fragile roofing?

If a rooftop is brittle or fragile and likely to endanger a person standing on them then there is a Government checklist for safe working. Brittle or fragile roofing materials include roofing made of:
• Asbestos
• Cellulose cement roof sheets
• Glass
• Fibreglass
• Acrylic
• Synthetic moulded or fabricated material used to sheath a roof

7. When is a ladder right for a job?

According to the law, ladders can be used for working at heights when a risk assessment has shown that using equipment offering a higher level of fall protection is not justified because of the low risk and short duration or use.

As a general rule of thumb, if the task will be for more than 30 minutes it is recommended to use alternative equipment, i.e. scaffold, EWP etc.

8. How long is working at heights training valid?

Whilst there is no expiry on competency based training, relevant Standards require ongoing refresher training. Industry generally requires training to be refreshed every 2 years

9. If I have a Working at Heights qualification am I qualified to decide on appropriate anchor points for attaching harnesses?

Yes. Both fixed or permanent anchor points need to be clearly labelled showing the maximum safe working load, the name of the installer, the date of last inspection and the Australian standard it complies with.

10. What am I qualified to do if I have a working at heights qualification?

Training includes the list of items (see question 1. for list). The training should also include:
• Planning work in accordance with legislative requirements, site procedures and manufacturers specifications
• Identifying and controlling hazards in the workplace.
• Communication methods.
• Equipment selection and use
• Anchor systems, selecting solid and reliable anchorage
• Fall restraint systems, selection of equipment and correct use
• Work positioning systems, selection of equipment and correct use
• Fall arrest systems
• Using energy absorbing equipment
• Correct use of ladders and ladder safety training

11. Is the Haz-Ed Working at Heights qualification accepted in all states?

Yes, Haz-Ed is a Nationally recognised - Registered Training Organisation (RTO) #40472.

12. How often do I have to refresh my Working at Heights course?

There is no time frame outlined by the law, however, it has become an industry standard to do so every 2 years. Specific sites may outline a date range that they require.

The blog post Haz-Ed’s working at heights frequently asked questions was first published on: HAZ-ED Blog

5 Safety tips for working at heights

1. Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)

The law in Western Australia requires all people working at heights to have the appropriate personal protective equipment. This doesn’t just mean having a harness or lanyard, it is about having the right equipment for the right height. When you successfully get your Working at Heights Certification you are taught how to select appropriate PPE, how to use it, maintain it and store it. This is then applied to every working at heights scenario.

Regular maintenance is a highly important aspect of working at heights. This includes repairing and replacing the equipment so it is in a good working condition. This maintenance has to be conducted by someone who is competent to judge the equipment’s condition.

PPE includes, but not limited to:
• Boots
• Ear plugs
• High visibility clothing
• Safety harnesses
• Fall arrest devices

Fall prevention devices includes, but not limited to:
• Scaffolding
• Elevating work platforms
• Safety mesh
• Guard rails

2. Assess Risks

Prior to any work commencing at heights it is highly important to conduct a risk assessment of the area. This includes identifying the risk by asking questions like:

“What are the surfaces like?”
“Is the area crowded or cluttered?”
“How severe are the injuries likely to be?” etc.

This document is to also remain at the site for the duration of the activity. This is done to ensure that everyone involved is a) aware of the risks and b) covered if any injury were to occur.

In the workplace, it is important that everyone is aware of the associated risks and complies with the safety regulations stipulated.

3. Acceptable Anchor Points

West Australian regulations stipulate that an anchor point must be installed and regularly inspected by a competent person. This person should also be inspecting the harness and lanyards regularly.

4. Understand the importance of training

It is vital for employees or employers working at heights to be fully trained. People working at heights are required to hold their Working at Heights certificate. During training employees and employers are taught safe work practices to prevent falls, reporting incidents, selecting the appropriate PPE, emergency response procedure and maintaining PPE in the workplace.

Haz-Ed’s training for Working at Heights in Perth covers the inspection of fall injury prevention systems, the inspection of anchorages, requirements for edge protection and the requirements for working on brittle or fragile roofing.
At the end of the working at heights training, participants will gain experience in a wide variety of safety equipment, tailored to suit the individual requirements of your workplace.

5. Buddy Up

Find a buddy! Because, working at heights means you are required to work with more than one person by law (unless appropriate systems have been established). Also ensure that you are under appropriate supervision at all times.

Working at heights increases not only the likelihood of injury, but the severity of injury. In the event of an accident causing injury having more than one person around ensures that anyone hurt doesn’t wait any longer than necessary for medical treatment.

We firmly believe in preventing accidents happening in the workplace. No matter the business you run – an appropriate safety system can always be implemented. Haz-Ed can set up a strategy for your workplace that works efficiently and effectively across the board.

Related Information

Haz-Ed’s Workplace Health and Safety Consultancy

Haz-Ed’s Working at Heights safety training

Haz-Ed’s Heights Safety Equipment

Haz-Ed’s Health and Safety Equipment

The following article 5 Safety tips for working at heights is available on: HAZ-ED Services Blog

Working At Heights Safety Training Course

Height Safety Perth

Haz-Ed’s Work Safely At Heights Training Course is designed to assist employers and employees to develop a better understanding of working safely at heights.

Students will earn their working at heights ticket while being introduced to important legislation, codes of practice and Australian standards relating to working at height.  Over the duration of this course you will develop the ability to identify hazards, assess recognised hazards, analyse job safety and understand the hierarchy of controls required to safely work at heights.

This course will cover a range of safety issues related to working at heights. From how forces are generated in falls, to the correct selection and use of anchor points and height safety equipment. The use of ladders, scaffolding and elevated work platforms will also be covered.

Throughout the course, students will develop and apply skills in the safe management of working at heights. These skills include; correctly fitting a full body harness, identify harness features, inspecting and maintaining safety equipment. Basic height rescue will also be covered.

Participants will gain experience with a wide selection of height safety equipment, tailored to suit the company’s individual requirements.

Participants are not required to bring their own equipment, this will be provided at the training location.

Contact Us to enrol:

Perth | (08) 9248 8099                  Brisbane |  0488 288 040

Continue reading below for a Course Overview.

Preventing Falls While Working at Heights.

This course also contains specific detail about the prevention of falls, including;

• Safety practices to implement systems to prevent falls
• Safe methods of working at height or on brittle surfaces
• Emergency procedures and hazard reporting
• Proper use, care and storage of equipment for working at heights

Working with Elevating Work Platforms

A range of safety topics will be covered specifically for working with Elevating Work Platforms (EWP)

• Safe height and reach of the EWP unit
• Safe working load of the EWP unit
• The ground conditions
• Position of overhead power lines and other electrical hazards

For more information see the course overview >> https://www.haz-ed.com.au/project/elevating-work-platform-2/

OS&H Requirements in WA

• Inspection of Fall Injury Prevention Systems – Regulation 3.51 of the OS&H Regulations 1996 requires that: a competent person inspects fall injury prevention systems and details when and how often the inspections be carried out.
• Inspection of Anchorages – Regulation 3.52 of the OS&H Regulations 1996 states under what circumstances inspections are carried out.
• Requirements for Edge Protection – Where a risk of falling is at 2 or more metres including work performed on scaffolds, landings, fixed staircases, formwork or suspended slabs, edge protection or a fall injury prevention system must be provided and detailed in regulation 3.55 of the OS&H Regulations 1996
• Requirements for Working On Brittle or Fragile Roofing – Work performed on or around roofing materials made of asbestos, glass, fibreglass etc. is required to conform to regulation 3.57 of the OS&H Regulations 1996

View more on the Government of Western Australia’s  Code of practice – Prevention of falls at workplaces

Height Safety Equipment

https://www.haz-ed.com.au/safety-equipment-sales/

Height Safety Solutions

Haz-Ed also design, install and provide re-certification for a range of  https://www.haz-ed.com.au/product/heights-safety-system-equipment/.

• Anchor Point Installation and Re-Certification
• Static Line Installation and Re-Certification
• Walkway and Guardrail Installation and Re-Certification
• Ladder System Installation and Re-Certification
• Roof Access Systems Installation and Re-Certification Height Safety Equipment

For a list of related courses see  here.

Original: Haz-Ed

Fall prevention equipment

For the best level of protection at your workplace you need both the right procedures and the best fall prevention equipment. At Haz-ed we recognise that every workplace is different, which is why it’s best to tailor the fall prevent equipment to the individual business and the application or the environment it will be used in. The following covers some of the essentials in fall prevention equipment including harness, lanyard, belt and buckle safety equipment.

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HARNESSES

Harnesses are a lifesaver if you or your employees continually or occasionally work at heights. At Haz-ed we recommend a full body harness that’s correctly fitted. Workers should connect the fall-arrest line to the attachment point on their harness that will provide the best protection in the situation it is being used. See our working at heights training course for full safety preparation  https://www.haz-ed.com.au/project/work-safely-at-heights-training-course/

To avoid putting yourself in a risky situation we recommend that you inpect your fall prevention equipment prior to every use.

For more information on fall prevention devices see our outline of different safety systems in this blog post:  https://www.haz-ed.com.au/working-at-heights/fall-prevention-devices/

Alongside the manufacturer recommendations your gear, we suggest looking out for the following during the safety inspection:

• Begin by holding the harness up by the D-ring.

  [caption id="attachment_508" align="alignright" width="226"] Rescue / Rope Access harnesses[/caption]

• Bend the straps in an inverted "U."
• Watch for frayed edges, broken fibers, pulled stitches, cuts or chemical damage.
• Check D-rings and D-ring metal wear pads for distortion, cracks, breaks, and rough or sharp edges.
• The D-ring bar should be at a 90 degree angle with the long axis of the belt and should pivot freely.
• Attachments of buckles and D-rings should be given special attention.
• Note any unusual wear, frayed or cut fibers, or distortion of the buckles. Rivets should be tight and unmovable with fingers.
• Body side rivet base and outside rivets should be flat against the material.
• Bent rivets will fail under stress.

LANYARDS

For those working at great heights safety lanyards are the vital link to the fall protection anchor point. Short sections of webbing or cable are usually attached to the D-ring of a workers safety harness. At Haz-ed we recommend the following:

• Ensure a minimum of slack in the fall-arrest lanyard between the user and the attachment. The anchorage point should be as high as the equipment permits.
• Avoid work above the anchor point, as this will increase the free fall distance in the event of a fall, resulting in higher forces on the body and greater likelihood of the lanyard snagging on obstructions.

At Haz-ed we believe it’s imperative to inspect the safety of your lanyards.

• Begin at one end and work to the opposite end.
• Slowly rotate the lanyard so that the entire circumference is checked. Spliced ends require particular attention.
• Inspect snap hooks closely for hook and eye distortion, cracks, corrosion, or pitted surfaces.
• The keeper, or latch, should seat into the nose without binding and should not be distorted or obstructed.
• The keeper spring should exert sufficient force to firmly close the keeper.
• Keeper rocks must provide the keeper from opening when the keeper closes. Closing/locking mechanism should move freely without sticking or jamming.
• While bending webbing over a piece of pipe, observe each side of the webbed lanyard. This will reveal any cuts or breaks.
• The outer portion of the shock-absorbing pack should be examined for burn holes and tears.
• Stitching on areas where the pack is sewn to the D-ring, belt or lanyard should be examined for loose strands, rips and deterioration.

BELTS & BUCKLES

Belts and buckles are intergral components to your fall prevention equipment and should be inspected on a regular basis. At Haz-ed we recommend the following safety checking measures:

• Begin by holding the harness up by the D-ring.
• Bend the straps in an inverted "U." Watch for frayed edges, broken fibers, pulled stitches, cuts or chemical damage.
• Check D-rings and D-ring metal wear pads for distortion, cracks, breaks, and rough or sharp edges.
• The D-ring bar should be at a 90 degree angle with the long axis of the belt and should pivot freely.
• Attachments of buckles and D-rings should be given special attention. Note any unusual wear, frayed or cut fibers, or distortion of the buckles.
• Rivets should be tight and unmovable with fingers.
• Body side rivet base and outside rivets should be flat against the material.
• Bent rivets will fail under stress.
• Inspect frayed or broken strands.
• Broken webbing strands generally appear as tufts on the webbing surface. Any broken, cut or burnt stitches will be readily seen.
• Tongue Buckle: Buckle tongues should be free of distortion in shape and motion. They should overlap the buckle frame and move freely back and forth in their socket. Rollers should turn freely on the frame. Check for distortion or sharp edges.
• Friction Buckle: Inspect the buckle for distortion. The outer bar or center bars must be straight. Pay special attention to corners and attachment points of the center bar.

 

Fall prevention equipment was first published on: https://www.haz-ed.com.au

Fall prevention devices

At Haz-ed we firmly believe the best way to avoid accidents in the workplace is to prevent them from happening in the first place. No matter what type of business you run, there is an appropriate safety system for your workplace. We can help you navigate the options and apply the appropriate fitting safety system that works efficiently in your workplace.
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TEMPORARY WORK PLATFORMS

This fall prevention system is a working platform that’s not installed permanently and prevents workers from falling. The following are types of temporary work platforms:

Scaffolding

This is an effective way to prevent falls. It’s important to know that some types of scaffolding must comply with the following WHS regulations (225)

A person with management or control of a scaffold must not allow the use of a scaffold from which a person or object could fall more than four meters unless a competent person provides written confirmation that the scaffold has been completed. The person must also ensure that:

• the scaffold and its supporting structure is inspected by a competent person before use, after any incident that could affect its stability (such as a severe storm), after any repairs, and at least every 30 days
• unauthorised access is prevented on scaffolding that is incomplete and left unattended (for example, by attaching danger tags and warning signs at appropriate locations).

Light duty suspended scaffolding incorporates a suspended platform that is capable of being raised or lowered when in use.

Elevating work platforms

Are a good option if you require a flexible safety option that can be used on both hard and rough terrain surfaces. It includes include scissor lifts, cherry pickers, boom lifts and travel towers.

Mast climbing work platforms

This involves hoists and a working platform that can both raise workers or materials to temporary working position. They can be set up as a single or multi configuration.

Workboxes

This safety device works inconjuction with a crane, hoist, forklift truck or other mechanical device. It’s designed to create space where employees can work from an elevated area.

Building maintenance units

A building maintenance unit is a suspended working platform that is fixed permanently to a building or structure. This is a great option for building maintenance or window cleaning.

Platforms supported by trestle ladders

This system is suitable for light tasks, such as painting and rendering. If used at heights greater than two metres, it’s recommended that guard rails and toe boards are incorporated to prevent people and material falling off the platform. The minimum width of the working platform should not be less than 450 milimeters.

Perimeter guard rails

This safety solution can be added to the edges of roofs, mezzanine floors, stairways, ramps and landings. It’s advised they incorporate a top rail of 900 to 1100 millimeters above the working surface and a mid-rail and a toe board.

At Haz-ed we recommend before using a guard rail system you should check it will be adequate for your potential loads.

Safety Mesh

A securely fixed mesh offers great protection for roof installers and employees doing long term maintenance and repair work. At Haz-ed we recommend using the safety mesh with appropriate edge protection, guard rails or fall arrest systems.

WORK POSITIONING SYSTEMS

A work positioning system enables a person to work supported in a harness in tension.

At Haz-ed we recommend the following safety systems are undertaken when using this equipment. Employees should have a high level of competency and be trained accordingly when using this equipment.

Industrial rope access systems

[caption id="attachment_497" align="alignright" width="300"] Work safely at heights...[/caption]

This system is ideal when gaining access to a workface vertically suspended by ropes. At Haz-ed we recommend the following:

• operators are competent in their technique
• operators work in a team
• the systems are only installed in a location where prompt assistance or rescues can be actioned
• equipment is to be checked regularly
• make sure all fixed anchorage points are checked before attaching rope access lines
• a backup system is put in place to protect the operator
• two independently anchored ropes are used for each person
• any person within three meters of an unguarded edge is adequately secured
• full body harness is to be worn by all operators
• If appropriate personal protective equipment is used, such as helmets, gloves, hearing protection, goggles and masks
• barricades and signposts to be placed on all access areas below the working area and anchorage locations to exclude and alert the public and tradespeople.

Further guidance on industrial rope access systems is available in AS/NZS 4488 Industrial rope access systems series

Restraint technique

This controls a person’s movement by physically preventing the person reaching a position at which there is a risk of a fall. A harness is connected by a lanyard to an anchorage or horizontal life line.

This technique is enables the user to maintain secure footing without having to tension the restraint line and without the aid of any other hand hold or lateral support.

Catch platform

This is a temporary platform located below a work area and can catch a worker in the event of a fall. The platform should be designed to withstand the maximum potential impact load. At Haz-ed we recommend the following:

• incorporate a fully planked-out deck, one that extends at least two meters beyond all unprotected edges of the work area.
• Position the deck as close as possible to the underside of the work area.
• Always be used with an adequate form of edge protection.
• They should not be used to enter or exit a work area or as a working platform. If safety nets are used, you should ensure that:

Industrial safety nets

Safety nets allow workers maximum freedom of movement and protection. At Haz-ed we recommend the following when using safety nets in your workplace:

• Make sure nets are securely anchored before any work starts
• They are constructed of material strong enough to catch a falling person or thing
• Nets are hung as close to the underside of the working area and no more than two meters below the working area
• perimeter safety nets are used where there is no edge protection
• safety net has sufficient tension and clearance to prevent a falling person contacting any surface below the net
• material is not allowed to accumulate in suspended safety nets
• no welding or oxy cutting is performed above safety nets
• regularly inspect the of nets, specially after installation, relocation or repair
• store nets correctly in dry, shaded areas with good air circulation.

Individual fall-arrest systems

Individual fall-arrest systems rely on workers using or wearing them correctly. At Haz-ed we recommend this system only be used where it is not reasonably practicable to use higher level control measures. It’s a must for all workers to be trained before they use this system. Relevant Australian/New Zealand Standards for personal fall-arrest equipment require that they be permanently marked or labelled to indicate their purpose, correct use, limitations and other relevant information aimed at reducing misuse of the equipment.

Individual fall-arrest systems are made up of many components and may include a combination of the following:

Anchorages, lifelines, inertia reel, lanyard of fixed length, retractable lifelines, rope grabs, wire grabs, rail system, shock absorbers, both personal and industrial, harness, snap hooks (double or triple action to prevent rollout), karabiners (double or triple action to prevent rollout) and rescue equipment.

For information on working at heights training courses see our work safely at heights training course
Or call us on (08) 9248 8099

 

Fall prevention devices was originally seen on: HAZ-ED

Identifying Fall Hazards and Risk Assessment

At Haz-ed we’re committed to the safety of our clients. We want to help our clients in their duty to ensure their employees are not exposed to hazards at the workplace. At Haz-ed we recommend implementing a risk management process that will identify hazards and assess and control risks. Below are steps we consider when undertaking a risk assessment identification check list.

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IDENTIFY THE RISK

The first step in this process is to take a good look around your workplace and recognise the things that may cause injury or harm to a person. This could be a particular area or an object in your workplace. The team at Haz-ed recognise this task can be quite overwhelming. Which is why we recommend breaking down your workplace into key checking areas.

What are the surfaces like?

1. Are they stable, fragile, brittle or slippery?
2. Do the surfaces change throughout the workplace?
3. How strong is the surface and what weight can the surface handle?

What are the levels like?

1. Check where levels change and your workers may be exposed to a fall from one level to another.
2. Does the surface slope? Check to see where levels change and workers may be exposed to a fall from one level to another.
3. Is the ground even? Check the stability of the ground to see if it’s safe to support scaffolding or a work platform?

Structures

1. What is the stability of both temporary and permanent structures in the workplace?

Working areas

1. Is the work area crowded or cluttered?
2. Check both entry and exit of working area.

Edges

1. What is the protection for open edges of floors, working platforms, walkways, walls or roofs?

Holes, openings or excavations

1. If these hazards exist they will require guarding

Hand grip

1. Is the appropriate hand grip in place, where an employees grip may be lost?

ASSESS THE RISK

At Haz-ed we understand that assessing the risks in your workplace is often easier said than done. However, taking the time will help you to determine what could happen if a fall did occur, as well at the likelihood of it happening. It will also help you to identify the severity of the risk and whether a preventative measure could have been put in place. At Haz-ed we recommend taking the following steps when assessing and analysing risks.

1. Where, which and how many employees are likely to be at risk of incurring injuries?
2. How often is the hazard likely to occur?
3. How severe are the injuries likely to be?

When undertaking a risk assessment, our team at Haz-ed recommend that you should consider the following:

• Check the layout and design of elevated work areas, including the distance of a potential fall.
• Be aware of the activities that employees undertake and where they move around in the workplace.
• Know how close workers get to unsafe areas, especially where loads are placed on elevated working areas.
• Check there is adequate lighting for clear vision in the work space.
• Ensure inspection and maintenance is undertaken of plant and equipment.
• Check if weather conditions could create a slippery surface in the workplace.
• Are employees wearing the appropriate footwear?
• Check the suitability and condition of ladders. As well as where and how they are they are being used in the workplace.
• Are employees qualified to undertake tasks safely within the workplace?
• Always ensure staff have proper safety training.
• Is there enough knowledge of potential emergency situations around the workplace?

CONTROL THE RISK

The next step in hazard prevention in your workplace is to action some control measures. At Haz-ed we recommended monitoring and reviewing these measures on a regular basis.

• Design, plan and modifying workspace, buildings and structures to prevent falls. (For example Install proper preventable devices like guard rails).
• Provide a fall prevention device or a work positioning system such as an industrial rope access systems.
• Alternatively provide a fall arrest system which may include the use of safety harnesses from an elevated platform.
• Look at the way jobs can be done safely to eliminate or reduce the likelihood of a fall.
• Carry out any work that involves the risk of a fall on the ground.
• Organise and schedule work so that people do not interfere with or increase the risk of a fall for themselves or other employees.
• Make sure all employees have the proper training to work safely, see:  https://www.haz-ed.com.au/project/work-safely-at-heights-training-course/

It’s also recommend that your chosen control measures are checked regularly to remain effective. At Haz-ed we advise monitoring the purpose, suitable nature and duration of the work and all check safety measures are installed and used correctly by employees.

We recommend the following:

1. Develop work procedures on how to install, use and maintain the control measures.
2. Provide information, training and instruction to employees, including procedures for emergency and rescue.
3. Make sure workers exposed to a risk of a fall are adequately supervised by a competent person.

 

Identifying Fall Hazards and Risk Assessment was originally seen on: https://haz-ed.com.au/

Reference Information For Working At Heights

This information is a reference guide to sources of information relating to work at heights, mostly from SAI Global Limited (saiglobal.com)
This document is not intended to be exhaustive and readers should be aware that as time passes, there may be material published which does not appear in this guidance note and any internet links given may become obsolete.
All advice or information contained in publications by SAI Global Limited or found on haz-ed.com.au is intended for users who will evaluate the significance of the advice or information, including its limitations, and take responsibility for its use and application.
The information contained in this material has been compiled by Haz-ed.com.au from information that is already in the public domain. The material is intended to provide guidance but does not interpret and apply the law to particular circumstances and cannot be relied upon as advice.

AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS AND AUSTRALIAN/NEW ZEALAND STANDARDS

AS 1418.13 Cranes (including Hoists and Winches) – Building Maintenance Units

http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/details.aspx?ProductID=226299
Specifies requirements for building maintenance units and supporting structures permanently provided for use and which incorporate power-operated suspension equipment. It does not include requirements for suspended scaffolding. It gives guidance to manufacturers, statutory authorities and users in the form of minimum engineering requirements which are necessary for the design manufacture, installation and commissioning of building maintenance units. It includes a section on loads tests to be conducted and an appendix gives details of those items to be inspected and tested during commissioning. It is intended for use with AS 1418.1.

AS/NZS 1576 Scaffolding - General requirements

http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/details.aspx?ProductID=1391358
Sets out design and operational requirements for scaffolding, except trestle scaffolding, portable ladder intended to be used as working platforms and elevating working platforms.

AS/NZS 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders—Design, construction and installation

http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/details.aspx?ProductID=1694271
Sets out requirements for the design, selection, construction and installation of fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders that are intended to provide safe access to places used by operating, inspection, maintenance and servicing personnel.

AS/NZS 1891.1 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices—Harnesses and ancillary equipment

http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/details.aspx?ProductID=362326
Specifies requirements for the materials, design, manufacture and testing of harnesses, lanyards, pole straps and associated equipment including connecting devices and personal energy absorbers for industrial fall-arrest purposes.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements for the materials, design, manufacture and testing of harnesses, lanyards, pole straps and associated equipment including connecting devices and personal energy absorbers for industrial restraint and fall-arrest purposes.

AS/NZS 1891.2 supp:1-2001 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices—Horizontal lifeline and rail systems

http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/details.aspx?ProductID=362364
Abstract
Specifies design and performance requirements for systems and associated component hardware for horizontal lifelines and rails used for fall-arrest purposes. The Standard covers systems using either rigid rails or flexible lines. Test methods are given in appendices.
Scope
This Standard specifies design and performance requirements for systems and associated component hardware for horizontal lifelines and rails used for fall-arrest purposes. The Standard covers systems using either rigid rails or flexible lines. Test methods are given in Appendices.
NOTE: Prescribed configurations for horizontal lifelines which are deemed to comply with this Standard are specified in AS/NZS 1891.2 Supplement 1.

AS/NZS 1891.3 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices—Fall-arrest devices

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Abstract
Specifies requirements for the design and performance of fall-arrest devices comprising those which travel down either a fixed or flexible anchorage line, and those which pay out an anchorage line.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements for the design and performance of fall-arrest devices comprising devices which travel along either a fixed or flexible anchorage line, and those which pay out an anchorage line.

AS/NZS 1891.4 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices—Selection, use and maintenance

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Abstract
Specifies requirements and sets out recommendations for the selection, safe use and maintenance of industrial fall-arrest systems and devices based on the use of safety harnesses, horizontal life lines and rails, fall-arrest devices, and associated lanyards, connectors, anchorages and fittings.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements and sets out recommendations for the selection, safe use and maintenance of industrial fall-arrest systems and devices based on the use of safety harnesses, horizontal life lines and rails, fall-arrest devices, and associated lanyards, connectors, anchorages and fittings, as follows:

(a) Selection Requirements and recommendations for determining the types of components of the system that would be appropriate to the envisaged usage.

(b) Safe use Requirements and recommendations relating to the safe practices to be followed in the use of components and assemblies.

(c) Maintenance Requirements and recommendations for inspection, storage, servicing and cleaning practices.

NOTE: This Standard provides guidance for the selection of equipment and safe use procedures for some but not necessarily all forms of height protection or all of the circumstances under which such equipment and procedures are used.
The selection and safe use of equipment used in total restraint or rope access is not covered by this Standard (see AS/NZS 4488.2 for selection and safe use of rope access equipment).

AS/NZS 1892 Portable ladders series

AS/NZS 1892.1:1996 Portable ladders - Metal

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AS 1892.2-1992 Portable ladders - Timber

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AS/NZS 1892.3:1996 Portable ladders - Reinforced plastic

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AS/NZS 1892.5:2000 Portable ladders - Selection, safe use and care

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AS/NZS 4142.3 Fibre ropes—Man-made fibre rope for static life rescue lines

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Abstract
Specifies design, performance and marking requirements for man-made fibre ropes intended for use as static life rescue lines by rescue and emergency services.
Scope
This Standard specifies design, performance and marking requirements for man-made fibre ropes of sheath and core construction for use as static life rescue lines by life rescue organizations.
NOTE: In the context of this Standard 'static' refers to the design and performance characteristics of a rope and not to usage.1.1 SCOPE This Standard specifies design, performance and marking requirements for man-made fibre ropes of sheath and core construction for use as static life rescue lines by life rescue organizations.
NOTE: In the context of this Standard 'static' refers to the design and performance characteristics of a rope and not to usage.

AS/NZS 4389 Safety mesh

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Abstract
Specifes the minimum requirements for the design, construction, testing and installation of safety mesh for use in domestic, commercial and industrial building applications.
Scope
This Standard specifies the minimum requirements for the design, construction, testing and installation of safety mesh for use in domestic, commercial and industrial building applications.
NOTE: Alternative methods for determining compliance with this Standard are given in Appendix A.

AS/NZS 4488 Industrial rope access systems series

AS/NZS 4488.1:1997 Industrial rope access systems - Specifications

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Abstract
Specifies requirements for materials and hardware for industrial rope access systems including fall protection.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements for materials and hardware for industrial rope access systems including fall protection.

AS/NZS 4488.2:1997 Industrial rope access systems - Selection, use and maintenance

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Abstract
Specifies requirements and sets out recommendations for the selection, safe use and maintenance of industrial rope access system components and assemblies.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements and sets out recommendations for the selection, safe use and maintenance of industrial rope access system components and assemblies, as follows:

(a) Selection Aspects to be taken into account in determining the types of components of the system which would be appropriate to the envisaged usage.

(b) Safe use Requirements and recommendations relating to the safe practices to be followed in the use of components and assemblies.

(c) Maintenance Essential inspection, storage and cleaning practices which are required or should be observed.

Performance requirements for the components of an industrial rope access system are given in AS/NZS 4488.1.

AS/NZS 4488.2 Industrial rope access systems—Selection, use and maintenance

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Abstract
Specifies requirements and sets out recommendations for the selection, safe use and maintenance of industrial rope access system components and assemblies.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements and sets out recommendations for the selection, safe use and maintenance of industrial rope access system components and assemblies, as follows:

(a) Selection Aspects to be taken into account in determining the types of components of the system which would be appropriate to the envisaged usage.

(b) Safe use Requirements and recommendations relating to the safe practices to be followed in the use of components and assemblies.

(c) Maintenance Essential inspection, storage and cleaning practices which are required or should be observed.

Performance requirements for the components of an industrial rope access system are given in AS/NZS 4488.1.
Application
The requirements and recommendations given in this Standard are intended to apply only to rope suspension work (see Preface). It is not intended to apply to any of the following:

(a) Persons engaged in rescue operations where such operations are their primary job occupation.

(b) Emergency services.

(c) Recreational activities, including paid workers such as guides and instructors involved in such activities.

(d) Other rope access work such as lead climbing or under-deck work.

AS/NZS 4576 Guidelines for scaffolding

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Abstract
Gives practical guidance for the training and certification of scaffolders, the preparation of sites for scaffolding, and the safe selection, supply, erection, alteration, dismantling, maintenance, inspection and use of scaffolding and scaffolding equipment.
Scope
This Standard gives practical guidance for the training and certification of scaffolders, the preparation of sites for scaffolding, and the safe selection, supply, erection, alteration, dismantling, maintenance, inspection and use of scaffolding and scaffolding equipment.

AS 2550.16 Cranes—Safe Use—Mast climbing work platforms

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Abstract
Specifies the requirements for the safe use of mast climbing work platforms as defined in AS 2549. It includes sections on proposed site use criteria, site-specific considerations, supplier's information, site for erection, erection alteration and dismantling, commission testing and handover, operation and inspection testing and repair. Appendices give guidance on hazards, site inspection check list, handover certificate, record of training, operating instructions, logbook format and inspection and test format. It is intended for use with AS 2550.1 and AS 1418.16, which specifies the design requirements for mast climbing work platforms.
Scope
This Standard gives practical guidance for the selection, supply, erection, alteration, dismantling, commissioning, maintenance, inspection and safe use of mast climbing work platforms. It is complementary to AS 2550.1, but the requirements given herein take precedence over the corresponding requirements of AS 2550.1.
Application
This Standard shall apply to the safe use of MCWP as defined in AS 1418.16. The requirements in that Standard shall apply and no requirements given herein shall circumvent them.

AS/NZS 4994 Temporary edge protection series

AS/NZS 4994.1 Temporary edge protection - General requirements

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Abstract
Sets out requirements for the design, manufacture and testing of equipment that is intended to provide protection at the roof edge to workers installing, altering, repairing or removing cladding on housing and residential buildings having roof slopes of not more than 35° to the horizontal.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements for the design, manufacture and testing of equipment that is intended to provide temporary edge protection for persons working on roofs of buildings having slopes not greater than 35° to the horizontal and for other exposed edges, prior to the installation of the permanent walling materials.
NOTES:

1 This Standard does not apply to the containment of materials on residential roofs.

2 Edge protection is used on buildings that are being constructed, renovated, extended, altered or maintained.

3 Where roof slopes exceed 35 degrees, roof edge protection should be specifically designed. In some instances it may be appropriate that some other form of restraint may be required to avoid risk of excessive impact.

4 AS/NZS 4494.2 specifies requirements for the installation and dismantling of roof edge protection.

5 AS/NZS 4494.3 specifies requirements for the installation and dismantling of edge protection of other edges prior to the installation of the permanent walling materials.

Application
Persons using this Standard are advised to familiarize themselves with the relevant specific statutory requirements regarding occupational health and safety legislation, scaffolding and working at heights.
NOTES:
1 In Australia, housing and residential buildings are considered to be of not more than three habitable storeys, based on Classes 1, 2 and 10 of the Building Code of Australia (BCA).
2 In New Zealand, such buildings within the definition of a housing unit are as per the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC).

AS/NZS 4994.2 Temporary edge protection - Roof edge protection - Installation and dismantling

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Abstract
Sets out requirements and gives guidance for the selection, installation, use and dismantling of roof edge protection for housing and residential buildings.
Scope
This Standard specifies requirements and gives guidance for the selection, installation, use and dismantling of roof edge protection complying with AS/NZS 4994.1. It covers temporary roof edge protection for persons working on roofs of housing and residential buildings and commercial buildings having roof slopes of not greater than 35° to the horizontal.
NOTE: This document is not a substitute for any Standard applying to scaffolding.
Application
Persons using this Standard are advised to familiarize themselves with the specific statutory requirements of States and Territories of Australia and New Zealand regarding occupational health and safety legislation, scaffolding and working at heights.
Users are reminded to check if the relevant legislation contains a requirement to also control the risks associated with falling objects.

AS/NZS 4994.3 Temporary edge protection - Installation and dismantling for edges other than roof edges

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Scope
This Standard specifies requirements and gives guidance for the selection and installation of edge protection complying with AS/NZS 4994.1, for persons working near an opening in a floor, or near a platform edge or floor edge prior to the installation of the permanent walling materials.
NOTES:
1 Edge protection is used on buildings that are being constructed, renovated, extended, altered or maintained.
2 Part 2 of this Standard specifies requirements for the installation and dismantling of roof edge protection.
Application
Persons using this Standard are advised to familiarize themselves with specific statutory requirements of States, Territories and New Zealand regarding OH & S legislation, scaffolding and working at heights.
NOTES: Users are reminded to check if the relevant legislation contains a requirement to also control the risks associated with falling objects.


Via: https://www.haz-ed.com.au View full article here: https://www.haz-ed.com.au/working-at-heights/reference-information-working-heights/