Working at Heights

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the safety requirements and procedures for all work conducted at heights where there is a risk of falling that could cause personal injury. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who perform tasks at height. This SWP covers the use of various fall protection systems, including personal fall arrest systems (PFAS), guardrails, and safety nets. It also addresses the inspection, maintenance, and proper use of equipment, as well as emergency procedures and rescue plans.

2. Definitions

Work at Height Any work activity where a person could fall a distance that could cause personal injury. Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) A system used to arrest the fall of a worker from a working level. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, a body harness, and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combinations of these. Guardrail A barrier erected to prevent workers from falling to lower levels. Safety Net A type of fall protection used to catch workers if they fall.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers have the required training and competency for working at heights.
Provide appropriate fall protection equipment.
Conduct regular inspections of fall protection equipment and work areas.

3.2 Workers

Inspect personal fall arrest systems before each use.
Use provided fall protection equipment properly.
Report any fall hazards immediately to the supervisor.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falling from height	Serious injury or death	Ensure proper use of PFAS, including correct harness fitting and lifeline attachment. Inspect equipment before each use.
Lack of fall protection	Serious injury or death	Use guardrails or safety nets where feasible. Ensure guardrails are properly installed and meet regulatory requirements.
Slips, trips, and falls	Minor to serious injuries	Provide adequate lighting. Use non-slip footwear. Clear walkways of obstructions.
Falling objects	Head injury, cuts, bruises	Ensure proper training and supervision. Use tag lines to control materials.
Scaffold collapse	Serious injury or death	Inspect scaffolds before use. Ensure proper erection and stability.
Contact with electrical hazards	Electrocution, burns	Maintain a safe distance from power lines. Use insulated tools and equipment.
Adverse weather conditions (e.g., high winds, ice)	Falls, hypothermia	Use appropriate weather protection. Postpone work during adverse weather conditions.
Improper ladder use	Falls, fractures	Ensure proper training and use of ladders. Maintain three-point contact.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working at heights.

Hard Hat: Provides head protection from falling objects and impacts.
Safety Boots: Protects feet from falling objects and punctures.
Safety Glasses: Provides eye protection from dust, debris, and other hazards.
Gloves: Enhances grip and protects hands from abrasions.

Inspect all PPE before each use. Replace any damaged or defective items immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

All equipment and tools used for working at heights must be inspected before each use to ensure they are in good working condition.

Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS): Full body harness with appropriate lanyard and connectors. Ensure the harness fits properly and is in good condition.
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs): Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) provide a stable work platform and fall protection. Ensure operators are trained and certified.
Ladders: Ladders must be inspected before use and used according to safety guidelines. Ensure the ladder is stable and extends at least 3 feet above the landing.
Scaffolds: Scaffolds must be erected by competent persons and inspected regularly. Ensure proper access and fall protection are in place.

Inspect all tools and equipment for defects before use. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All workers must complete a working at heights training program and demonstrate competency in the use of fall protection equipment.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the tasks, hazards, and control measures. Ensure all workers understand the plan.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Inspect the work area for hazards and ensure it is properly prepared before starting work. This includes ensuring adequate lighting, clear walkways, and stable surfaces.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Conduct a Hazard Assessment: Assess the work area for potential fall hazards, including unprotected edges, holes, and slippery surfaces.
Select Fall Protection Equipment: Select the appropriate fall protection system based on the hazard assessment. This may include a PFAS, guardrails, or safety nets.
Inspect Equipment: Ensure the fall protection equipment is in good working condition and meets regulatory requirements. Inspect harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points for damage or wear.
Don Harness: Properly don the harness and adjust it to fit securely. Ensure all buckles and straps are fastened.
Attach Lanyard: Attach the lanyard to a suitable anchor point that can withstand the required load. Ensure the anchor point is above the worker's head.
Maintain Safe Positioning: Maintain three points of contact when climbing or working on ladders or structures.
Use Tools Safely: Use tools and equipment in a safe manner to prevent dropping them from height. Use tool lanyards where necessary.
Monitor Work Area: Continuously monitor the work area for changing conditions and potential hazards.
Post-Work Inspection: Upon completion of the task, inspect the equipment, clean it, and store it properly.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Always maintain three points of contact when using ladders or climbing structures. - Ensure a firm grip and stable footing at all times.
Never work at heights under the influence of drugs or alcohol. - Follow company policy regarding substance abuse.
Ensure all fall protection equipment is inspected before each use. - Follow the manufacturer's instructions for inspection and maintenance.
Use a buddy system to monitor each other's safety. - Ensure workers are within visual or audible range of each other.
Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of any working platform or fall protection equipment. - Refer to the manufacturer's specifications.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of a fall, immediately assess the situation and provide necessary first aid. Contact emergency services if required. Ensure the area is safe before attempting any rescue operations.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Worker falls while using a PFAS.: Immediately activate the emergency response system and provide first aid. Ensure the injured worker receives prompt medical attention.
Structural failure of a working platform.: Evacuate the area and contact emergency services. Do not attempt rescue without proper training and equipment.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses and falls, must be reported immediately to the supervisor and documented according to company policy.

A thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of any fall-related incident and to implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]