5 Safety Tips to Minimise Working at Height Risks

Working in elevated places can be a highly risky endeavor if workers are not well-trained and equipped. So attending proper courses like AlertForce Working on Heights training is the best solution to ensure that risks associated with height-based activities are minimised.

The following five safety tips offer guidance on how to properly prepare for any working-at-height task to ensure everyone remains safe.

Use Railing 

Working at heights can be a dangerous task, so it is important to have proper safety measures, such as using railings in place. Railings provide an effective means for workers to stay upright and secure while performing tasks above ground. 

They should be made of sturdy material that can hold up to weather conditions, resist deterioration and accommodate the forces exerted onto them by workers. Additionally, it is crucial for the railing to meet local codes to ensure the highest standard of safety. 

With regular inspections and maintenance, any potential hazards can be identified and avoided in advance before they cause injury. Using railings as a safeguard while working at heights will greatly reduce risks to workers and promote worker health.

Make Sure You Understand Fall Distance 

Make sure you understand fall distance and how it relates to the safety measures on-site. Fall distance refers to the vertical distance between a working platform or elevated area of work and a safe landing surface in the event of a person falling from any height. 

By understanding the fall distance, employers can ensure that employees are always guarded by appropriate fall protection equipment for their given elevation. With correct planning and implementation of job site-specific hazard assessments as well as other key safety systems, it is possible to minimise workplace exposure to overhead hazards when working at heights.

Select the Proper PPE 

When working at heights, it is essential to select the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes wearing a full-body harness and hard hat, as well as ensuring they are securely fastened. 

It is also a good idea to inspect the surface of where you will be performing the task in question and eliminate any present hazards, such as slippery ground or other sharp objects that could potentially cause harm. 

Additionally, one should not attempt any high-risk activities without having a few different fall protection systems in place to help break their fall if an accident were to occur.

Inspect Your PPE

Inspecting your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) prior to working at height is an essential part of minimising the risks to yourself and those around you. Before using any PPE, be sure to check that it is in good condition and fit for purpose, and make sure that it is suitable for the job at hand. 

Pay particular attention to items such as lanyards, ropes, hooks, and karabiners which might be subject to wear and tear more quickly than other items, replacing any fit-for-purpose item if necessary. Inspecting PPE before use should become second nature when working at height, and could help save lives by making sure that all relevant safety guidelines are followed.

Determine Proper Anchor Points 

It is important to determine the proper anchor points from which a worker can safely suspend themselves when working on elevated areas. When selecting an anchor point suitable for suspending tools and materials, you should always inspect each attachment point thoroughly prior to use, eliminating any potential uncertainties related to strength or stability. 

In addition

Regular inspections should be performed throughout the course of work to ensure these points remain secure and undamaged. By following these guidelines, you can help create a safer environment for all those who work at height.