Safe Work Procedure: Working at Heights

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

1. Scope

This procedure covers all activities involving working at heights where there is a risk of falling. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who are required to work at heights of 3 meters or more, or where a fall from a lesser height could result in injury due to the nature of the surface below.

This procedure is applicable in all work environments where fall protection systems are required, including construction sites, maintenance activities, and any other operations involving elevated work areas.

Related procedures and documents include the Fall Protection Plan, Job Safety Analysis, and Emergency Rescue Procedures.

2. Definitions

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

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

Work Positioning System
A system that allows a worker to be supported on an elevated vertical surface, such as a wall, and work with both hands free.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that a fall protection plan is developed and implemented for each work site.
• Verify that all workers have received appropriate training in fall protection systems.
• Conduct regular inspections of fall protection equipment and systems.

3.2 Workers

• Use fall protection systems as required by the employer.
• Attend all required training sessions on fall protection.
• Report any defects or inadequacies in fall protection systems immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Participate 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 personal fall arrest systems, guardrails, and safety nets [1]
Equipment failure	Injury due to fall	Regular inspection and maintenance of fall protection equipment [2]
Improper use of equipment	Increased risk of fall	Comprehensive training and competency assessments [3]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety when working at heights.

• Full Body Harness - Must meet CSA Standard Z259.10-18 and be properly fitted [4].
• Lanyard with Shock Absorber - Used to connect the harness to an anchorage point [5].
• Helmet with Chin Strap - Protects against head injuries from falls or falling objects.
• Non-slip Footwear - Provides stability and reduces the risk of slipping.
• Gloves - Protect hands when handling equipment and materials.

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safety.

• Anchorage Points - Must be capable of supporting at least 22 kN (5000 lbs) per attached worker [6].
• Guardrails - Installed around open edges and openings to prevent falls [7].
• Safety Nets - Used where guardrails are not feasible, must be drop-tested [8].
• Ladders - Must be stable and used according to safety guidelines.
• Scaffolds - Must be erected and inspected by a competent person.

Inspect and maintain equipment regularly.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must complete fall protection training and demonstrate competency in using fall protection systems [3].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

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

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is free from hazards, and all fall protection systems are in place and inspected.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Assess the Work Area

Conduct a hazard assessment to identify potential fall risks and determine the appropriate fall protection systems [9].

• Identify all open edges and potential fall hazards.
• Determine the type of fall protection required.
• Ensure all workers are aware of the hazards.

Step 2: Set Up Fall Protection Systems

Install and verify the functionality of fall protection systems before work begins.

• Install guardrails or safety nets as needed.
• Ensure all personal fall arrest systems are properly anchored.
• Conduct a pre-use inspection of all equipment.

Step 3: Perform Work Safely

Follow all safety procedures while working at heights.

• Use fall protection equipment at all times.
• Maintain three points of contact when climbing.
• Avoid overreaching or leaning over edges.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Use Proper Equipment - Ensure all equipment is suitable for the task and in good condition.
• Follow Training - Adhere to all training and instructions provided.
• Inspect Equipment - Regularly inspect all fall protection equipment before use.
• Maintain Awareness - Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
• Report Hazards - Immediately report any unsafe conditions or equipment.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of a fall, initiate emergency rescue procedures immediately.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Fall Arrest - Use rescue equipment to safely lower the worker to the ground.
• Equipment Failure - Secure the area and replace faulty equipment.
• Medical Emergency - Provide first aid and contact emergency services.

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 determine the cause and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

• Occupational Health and Safety Code
• Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations
• Fall Protection Plan

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

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