Safe Work Procedure: Fall Protection Plan for Working at Heights on Roofs and Near Leading Edges

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the fall protection requirements for working at heights on roofs and near leading edges. It applies to all employees and contractors working in these environments where there is a risk of falling 3 meters or more, or where there is a risk of injury from a fall of less than 3 meters due to hazardous conditions.

This procedure is applicable to all work environments involving roofs and leading edges, including construction, maintenance, and inspection activities. It should be used in conjunction with other relevant safety procedures and regulations.

2. Definitions

Fall Protection System
A system designed to prevent or arrest a fall from a height, including guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems.

Leading Edge
The edge of a floor, roof, or formwork for a floor or other walking/working surface that changes location as additional sections are placed, formed, or constructed.

Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS)
A system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a working level, consisting of an anchorage, connectors, and a body harness.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that a fall protection plan is developed and implemented for each work area.
Verify that all workers are trained in fall protection procedures and equipment use.
Conduct regular inspections of fall protection systems and work areas.

3.2 Workers

Follow all fall protection procedures and use equipment as trained.
Inspect personal fall protection equipment before each use.
Report any hazards or equipment defects to a supervisor immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of fall protection plans.
Monitor compliance with fall protection procedures.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falling from height	Serious injury or death	Use of guardrails, safety nets, or PFAS
Unprotected edges	Falling objects or personnel	Installation of warning lines and toeboards
Weather conditions	Slips and falls	Schedule work during favorable weather, use non-slip footwear

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety when working at heights.

Full Body Harness - Must be worn at all times when using a PFAS.
Lanyard with Shock Absorber - Connects the harness to the anchorage point.
Hard Hat - Protects against falling objects.
Non-slip Footwear - Reduces the risk of slipping on surfaces.
Gloves - Provides grip and protection for hands.

Inspect PPE before each use and maintain according to manufacturer instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safety.

Guardrail Systems - Installed around roof edges to prevent falls.
Safety Nets - Used below work areas to catch falling workers or objects.
Anchorage Points - Secure points for attaching PFAS.
Warning Line Systems - Barriers to alert workers of approaching edges.
Ladders - Must be stable and used according to safety guidelines.

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly to ensure safety and functionality.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must complete fall protection training, including the use of PFAS, hazard identification, and emergency procedures .

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review the fall protection plan, identify hazards, and discuss emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clear of debris, and all fall protection systems are in place and inspected.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Assess the Work Area

Identify all potential fall hazards.
Ensure all workers are aware of the fall protection plan.
Verify that all equipment is in good condition.

Step 2: Install Fall Protection Systems

Set up guardrails and safety nets as required.
Ensure all anchorage points are secure and meet safety standards.
Install warning lines at least 2 meters from the edge .

Step 3: Use Personal Fall Arrest Systems

Attach the lanyard to the anchorage point before approaching the edge.
Maintain a secure connection at all times.
Monitor for any signs of equipment failure.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Use Guardrails - Install guardrails around all open edges.
Inspect Equipment - Check all fall protection equipment before use.
Monitor Weather - Avoid working in adverse weather conditions.
Use Buddy System - Work in pairs to ensure safety and quick response in emergencies.
Limit Access - Restrict access to areas where fall protection is not in place.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Stop work immediately if a fall occurs.
Call emergency services and provide first aid if necessary.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Fall Arrest - Use rescue procedures to safely lower the worker.
Equipment Failure - Evacuate the area and report the incident.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to a supervisor immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)
Occupational Health and Safety Code
Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (OSHA)

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]