Working at heights involves any work where a person could fall and be injured, including falls from ladders, roofs, or through openings. Fall protection is required when working above an open top tank, bin, hopper, or vat or when using forklift platforms, elevated work platforms, fixed suspended work platforms, swing staging, boatswain's chairs, aerial devices, suspended equipment, or personnel carrying equipment. [3] [1]

Occupational health and safety laws generally require action when a worker has the potential to fall about 3 metres (10 feet). Requirements vary by jurisdiction, but most require specific fall protection measures before or in addition to PPE. These measures include fixed barriers, surface opening protection, warning barriers or control zones, fall or travel restraint systems, fall containment systems and fall arrest systems. [1]

A fall protection plan identifies fall hazards and the measures taken to prevent injury. It includes selecting, assembling, maintaining, inspecting, using, and dismantling equipment like ladders, scaffolds, or platforms, as well as fall protection equipment. Emergency procedures for rescuing fallen workers are also needed. Fall protection plans must be specific to each site. [1]

Key elements of a fall protection plan include:

• Identifying who will conduct the rescue and their roles and responsibilities
• Procedures for identifying, assessing, and controlling hazards
• Training requirements for rescue personnel and workers
• Emergency rescue equipment and first aid supplies on site
• Contact information for on-site first aid personnel
• Required PPE for rescuers
• How a rescue will be initiated and communication protocols

[4] Before starting work at heights, workers should report any concerns to the supervisor. Equipment must be inspected and maintained, and defective equipment must be replaced. Control measures should be continuously reviewed and improved. [2]

Rescue plans should detail how to return fallen workers to safety while keeping rescuers safe. Designated rescuers must be adequately trained and have easy access to all necessary equipment. A rescue plan should be written and posted before work begins. [6]

When developing a rescue plan, consider factors such as hazards, location, tasks, environmental conditions, and how and where a worker could fall. The plan should include procedures for rescue, first-aid, medical care, and transport to the hospital. A communication system and emergency exits should be identified. [8] [8]

Rescuers need specialized training and experience, including frequent drills and simulated rescues. They should be familiar with the rescue plan, equipment, and associated hazards. Training should occur multiple times a year and before a job requiring a rescue plan begins. Rescuers should also receive first aid and CPR training and be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of suspension trauma. [5] [5]

After a rescue, the rescued worker should receive first aid and be transported to the nearest hospital. The worksite-specific rescue plan should be evaluated and updated as needed, and the cause of the fall and rescue should be investigated. [7] [7]