Work at Height

Work at Height

1. work at height heirarchy

   • avoid work at height
   • prevent falls
   • minimise distance/consequence

2. all working platforms must be inspected by a competent person

   • after installation or assembly
   • after any event likely to have affected its integrity e.g. winds or alteration
   • at regular intervals if below 2m or at intervals not exceeding 7 days if 2m or more

3. ladders

   • strong enough for intended job
   • checked before use
   • do not use painted ladders
   • ensure ladders are industrial, not domestic
   • used on firm stable base
   • tied or stabilised
   • angle "one out of every four up"
   • not overloaded - check safe working load
   • not used over overhead lines
   • no over reaching
   • 3 points of contact at all times
   • carry tools on tool belt
   • don't use top step of stepladders
   • ensure stepladders are fully opened and locked

4. scaffolds

   • designed, erected, altered and dismantled only by competent people
   • based on firm, level foundation
   • voids, basements and drains avoided
   • suitably braced and tied to a building
   • platforms should be fully boarded and wide enough for work
   • boards should be properly supported and not overhang excessively
   • provide safe access onto platforms e.g. fixed ladder
   • loading bays should be fitted with fall protection, preferably gates

5. tower scaffolds

   • hazards - overturn/collapse, overloading, falls, falling objects, overhead power lines
   • manufacturers instructions should be followed when erecting/using towers - e.g. base/height ratio, loading, etc
   • towers should only be erected by competent people (e.g. PASMA trained)
   • access ladders should be on inside of the tower
   • positioned away from OH lines and to avoid reaching
   • never move with people on tower

6. mobile elevated work platfors

   • hazards: overturn/collapse, overloading, falls/falling objects, overhead power lines, mechanical failure, trapping, collision
   • operators should be fit, competent and trained
   • work restraint/fall arrest systems may be needed
   • should be inspected and maintained in line with manufacturers instructions
   • daily checks should be carried out by operators

7. falling objects control measures

   • brick guards
   • netting or sheeting
   • hard hats
   • safe method for getting tools/materials to work platform e.g. hoist
   • safe removal of waste e.g. waste chute into covered skip
   • catch fans
   • covered walkways
   • signs/barriers