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 3 meters or more, or where there is an unusual possibility of injury from a fall. It applies to all work environments where workers are exposed to fall hazards, including construction sites, maintenance activities, and any other relevant situations.

This procedure should be used in conjunction with the Fall Protection Plan and any other relevant safety documents.

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 all workers are trained and competent in working at heights.
Conduct hazard assessments and ensure appropriate fall protection systems are in place.
Monitor compliance with this procedure and take corrective actions as necessary.

3.2 Workers

Attend all required training sessions and follow safe work procedures.
Use fall protection systems as required and inspect them before use.
Report any hazards or incidents to the supervisor immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in the development and review of fall protection plans.
Assist in the investigation of incidents related to working at heights.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falling from height	Serious injury or death	Use of guardrails, safety nets, or PFAS
Equipment failure	Injury due to fall	Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment
Weather conditions	Slips, trips, and falls	Monitor weather and adjust work plans accordingly

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 used with a PFAS .
Lanyard - Must be appropriate for the task and inspected before use .
Helmet - Protects against head injuries from falls or falling objects.
Non-slip Footwear - Reduces the risk of slipping on surfaces.

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safety.

Guardrails - Installed at the edge of work areas to prevent falls .
Safety Nets - Used where guardrails are not feasible .
Anchorage Points - Must be capable of supporting the intended loads .

Inspect equipment before use and maintain according to manufacturer specifications.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in the use, maintenance, and inspection of fall protection systems by a competent person .

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to discuss the work plan, potential hazards, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clear of hazards and that all fall protection systems are in place and functional.

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 system.

Identify unguarded edges and openings.
Determine the need for guardrails or safety nets.
Ensure all workers are aware of the fall protection plan.

Step 2: Set Up Fall Protection Systems

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

Install guardrails or safety nets as needed.
Ensure PFAS are properly anchored and inspected.
Verify that all workers are using the correct PPE.

Step 3: Perform Work Safely

Follow all safety procedures and use fall protection systems as required.

Maintain communication with team members.
Avoid working in adverse weather conditions.
Report any equipment malfunctions immediately.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Use Guardrails - Always use guardrails where feasible to prevent falls.
Inspect Equipment - Regularly inspect all fall protection equipment for defects.
Monitor Weather - Adjust work plans based on weather conditions to ensure safety.
Limit Exposure - Minimize the number of workers exposed to fall hazards at any time.
Emergency Preparedness - Ensure all workers are familiar with emergency procedures.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

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

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Fall Arrest - If a worker is suspended in a harness, initiate rescue operations promptly.
Injury - Provide first aid and call emergency services if necessary.

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 the supervisor immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

Occupational Health and Safety Code
General Regulation (N.B. Reg. 91-191)
Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)

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