Working at Heights Code of Practice: Your Guide to Staying Safe

Working at heights is an inherently dangerous activity, with falls being one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the workplace.

According to the International Labour Organization, over 70% of fatal workplace accidents involve falls from height. In the United States, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more than 5,000 workers were injured in falls from heights in 2020, leading to 574 fatalities.

These statistics highlight the importance of following proper safety procedures when working at heights. A comprehensive code of practice is essential for minimizing the risks associated with this hazardous activity.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Working at Heights Code of Practice, covering various aspects of height safety, including risk assessment, planning, equipment selection, and safe work practices.

Risk Assessment

The first step in working safely at heights is conducting a thorough risk assessment. This involves identifying all potential hazards and assessing the risks associated with each hazard. The risk assessment should consider the following factors:

• The height of the work area
• The nature of the work being performed
• The weather conditions
• The equipment being used
• The training and experience of the workers
• The presence of other workers or members of the public

Once the hazards have been identified, the risks associated with each hazard should be assessed using a risk matrix. This matrix assigns a risk level to each hazard, based on the likelihood of the hazard occurring and the severity of the potential consequences.

Planning

Once the risks have been assessed, a plan must be developed to minimize the risks associated with working at heights. The plan should include the following elements:

• The selection of appropriate equipment
• The establishment of safe work procedures
• The training of workers
• The supervision of workers

The plan should be reviewed on a regular basis and revised as necessary to ensure that it is still effective.

Equipment Selection

The selection of appropriate equipment is essential for working safely at heights. The equipment must be suitable for the type of work being performed and the conditions under which the work is being carried out. The following equipment is typically used for working at heights:

• Ladders
• Scaffolds
• Scissor lifts
• Boom lifts
• Fall arrest systems

The equipment must be inspected on a regular basis to ensure that it is in good condition and is safe to use.

Safe Work Practices

Safe work practices are essential for minimizing the risks associated with working at heights. The following safe work practices should be followed:

• Always use fall arrest equipment when working at heights.
• Use ladders and scaffolds that are in good condition and are suitable for the type of work being performed.
• Do not work on slippery or uneven surfaces.
• Be aware of the weather conditions and do not work at heights if the weather is bad.
• Do not work alone when working at heights.
• Be vigilant and always be aware of your surroundings.

Training

Workers who work at heights must be trained in the proper use of equipment and in safe work practices. The training should be provided by a qualified person and should cover the following topics:

• The hazards of working at heights
• The risk assessment process
• The selection of appropriate equipment
• The establishment of safe work procedures
• The use of fall arrest systems
• The emergency response procedures

Supervision

Workers who work at heights should be supervised by a competent person. The supervisor is responsible for ensuring that the workers are following safe work practices and that they are using the equipment properly. The supervisor should also inspect the equipment on a regular basis to ensure that it is in good condition and is safe to use.

Enforcement

The Working at Heights Code of Practice is a legal requirement in many countries. Employers who fail to comply with the code of practice may be subject to fines or other penalties.

Benefits of Compliance

There are many benefits to complying with the Working at Heights Code of Practice, including:

• Reduced risk of injury or death
• Increased productivity
• Improved worker morale
• Reduced insurance costs

Conclusion

Working at heights is a hazardous activity, but it can be done safely if proper precautions are taken. The Working at Heights Code of Practice provides a comprehensive framework for managing the risks associated with working at heights. By following the code of practice, employers can help to protect their workers from injury or death and create a safer workplace.

Related Links

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Working at Heights Safety Standards
• [National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Working at Heights Safety Recommendations](https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/falls/
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Working at Heights Safety Standard

Additional Resources

• American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Working at Heights Safety Resources
• National Safety Council (NSC) Working at Heights Safety Resources
• International Labour Organization (ILO) Working at Heights Safety Resources