MACSS - News - Working at Heights

Factors to take into consideration:

·   Avoid - are there any alternatives that would prevent the need to work at a height??
·   Height - how high is the job from the ground?
·   Weather - are the weather conditions going to endanger health or safety?
·   Duration - how long will the work at a height be?
·   Application - do you have the appropriate equipment/EWP for the job?
·   Conditions - what are the ground conditions like (flat/stable surface,etc)
·   Obstructions - are there any protruding features of overhead hazards that need to be taken into consideration?
·   Operators - are the people using the equipment trained and competent?
·   Restraint - do you need use a work restraint or a fall arrest system?
·   Surfaces - is the working surface fragile? If it is, have controls and preventative measures been taken into consideration?
·   Checks - has the equipment been examined, inspected and maintained as required?

"What goes up must come down" - Working at Heights

Working at heights are a part of practice for many different workplaces - whether it's standing on a chair to reach a high cupboard or using a 30 metre scaffold during the construction of a building. With accidents involving falls from a height being the biggest cause of fatal workplace accidents, it is critical that the risks involved and safe practices are taken into careful consideration during the pre-planning and executing stages of the work.

AVOID, PREVENT, MINIMISE

People working at heights should not do so without being competent in the operations of the equipment that they are using. Both the employer and employee are important in this planning, training and executing process in order to minimise accidents or falls as much as possible.

It is critical that whatever system of prevention or protection are used, the employer must ensure the employee is correctly trained in the correct application of the system, as well as that the equipment itself is safe and in good working condition.

Good advice for the employer on the hazards or risks to health and safety associated with working at a height are that you follow current industry practice and are in compliance with State and National Legislation and relevant Code of Practice for Working at Heights. In particular, it is important to undertake regular assessments of the current safety training and practices of the workplace in order to remain aware of any updates or improvements needed and rectify these accordingly.

Implementing any safety management system requires qualification and experience. M.A.C.S.S. can provide guidance and assistance in the development, implementation, control and management of safety hazards such as working with heights.

For more information, contact

info@macssgroup.com.au or

(+61) (08) 8212 2524