Working at heights
Generated on: June 9, 2025
Pre-Task Plan: Working at Heights
Date: [DATE] Work Area: [WORK AREA] Task Supervisor: [SUPERVISOR NAME]
1. Task Description
[Performing tasks at an elevated height, such as on a scaffold or platform.]
2. Task Duration
Estimated Start: [START TIME] Estimated Completion: [END TIME]
3. Personnel Involved
- [Foreman]
- [Operators]
- [Laborers]
4. Task-Specific Hazards and Controls
Hazard | Risk | Control Measures |
---|---|---|
Falls from height | Serious injury or death | Ensure use of personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) including full body harnesses, shock-absorbing lanyards, and appropriate anchor points. Inspect all fall protection equipment before use [1]. Ensure proper use of guardrail systems where applicable [2]. |
Falling objects | Injury to personnel below | Use toeboards, screens, or guardrail systems to prevent objects from falling from higher levels [3]. Barricade the area below where objects could fall [3]. Ensure all personnel wear hard hats [3]. |
Scaffold instability | Scaffold collapse, leading to falls | Ensure scaffold is erected by a competent person and inspected for stability before use [4]. Verify that the scaffold can support the intended load with a safety factor of four 7, 10. Secure scaffold to prevent swaying [5]. |
Power line contact | Electrocution | Maintain safe distance from power lines. Contact the power service provider for advice when working near power lines [6]. Use properly grounded electrical power cords and GFCI with power tools [1]. |
Wire rope failure | Dropping of suspended scaffold | Inspect wire rope for kinks, corrosion, or damage before use 1, 8. Use wire rope and attachments specified by the hoisting machine manufacturer 7, 8. Ensure wire rope is long enough to reach the lowest possible landing 1, 8. |
5. Required PPE for Today's Task
- Hard hat [3]
- Safety glasses
- High-visibility vest
- Work boots
- Full body harness with shock-absorbing lanyard [1]
- Gloves [6]
6. Tools and Equipment Needed
- Adjustable Suspended Scaffold [6]
- Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) [1]
- Hand tools
- Measuring tape
- Level
- J-Bolt Wire Rope Clamps [1]
7. Pre-Start Checklist
Area Preparation
- Ensure the work area below is barricaded to prevent unauthorized access [3].
- Inspect walking/working surfaces to ensure they have the strength and structural integrity to support employees safely [7].
- Check for overhead hazards such as power lines and obstructions [5].
Equipment Checks
- Inspect the scaffold for any defects or missing components [5].
- Verify that all fall protection equipment is in good working condition and properly fitted [1].
- Ensure that all tools and equipment are in good working order [5].
Communication
- Conduct a pre-task briefing to discuss the task, hazards, and controls [5].
- Establish clear communication signals between workers 17, 18, 19.
8. Task Steps Overview
- Set up and inspect the scaffold system [5].
- Ensure proper fall protection is in place [7].
- Perform the work task at height [8].
- Regularly inspect the work area and equipment [5].
- Safely lower the scaffold and equipment after completing the task [9].
9. Emergency Response for This Task
- Fall from height → [Activate emergency services, provide first aid, investigate incident]
- Power line contact → [De-energize the power line, administer first aid, contact emergency services]
10. Task-Specific Precautions
- [Do not overload the scaffold] [9].
- [Maintain three-point contact when climbing ladders or accessing elevated areas] [8].
- [Do not work in adverse weather conditions] [5].
Pre-Task Briefing Confirmation
All workers understand the task, associated hazards, and required controls.
Team Lead Initials: [___] Date: [DATE] Time: [TIME]
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Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.