Risk Assessment for Working from Heights

Potential Hazards

1. Falls from Height: Employees working at heights are at risk of falling, which can result in serious injury or death.
2. Falling Objects: Tools or materials can fall from height, posing a risk to workers below.
3. Weather Conditions: Adverse weather such as rain, wind, or ice can increase the risk of slips and falls.
4. Improper Use of Equipment: Incorrect use of fall protection systems or equipment failure can lead to accidents.
5. Inadequate Training: Workers not properly trained in fall protection systems may not use them correctly.

Risk Assessment

• Likelihood: High, given the nature of working at heights.
• Severity: High, as falls can result in severe injury or fatality.

Control Measures

1. Elimination: Where possible, perform work at ground level to eliminate the need to work at height.
2. Substitution: Use equipment that reduces the need to work at height, such as extendable tools.
3. Engineering Controls:
   • Install guardrails or safety nets where feasible .
   • Use travel restraint systems to prevent reaching unguarded edges .
4. Administrative Controls:
   • Develop a fall-protection code of practice and ensure it is available and understood by all employees .
   • Implement a safety monitoring system where a competent person oversees the work .
   • Schedule work to avoid adverse weather conditions.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
   • Ensure all workers use appropriate fall arrest systems, including full body harnesses and lanyards .
   • Provide hard hats to protect from falling objects .

Monitoring and Review

• Conduct regular inspections of fall protection equipment and systems to ensure they are in good working condition .
• Review and update the fall-protection code of practice regularly and after any incident .
• Monitor weather conditions and adjust work schedules accordingly.

Recommendations

• Train all employees in the use, maintenance, and inspection of fall protection systems .
• Ensure a competent person is always present to oversee work at heights and enforce safety protocols .
• Conduct a hazard assessment before beginning work to identify potential risks and ensure all control measures are in place .

By implementing these control measures and continuously monitoring the work environment, the risks associated with working from heights can be significantly reduced.