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 protection system is necessary. This procedure is applicable in various environments including construction sites, maintenance operations, and any other work areas where fall hazards exist.

Related procedures include the Fall Protection Code of Practice 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.

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.

Control Zone
A designated area where a fall hazard exists, marked by a warning line or other effective means.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained and competent in working at heights.
Conduct hazard assessments and ensure control measures are in place.
Ensure fall protection systems are used and maintained properly.

3.2 Workers

Attend all required training sessions.
Use fall protection systems as instructed.
Report any hazards or incidents to supervisors immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in the development and review of fall protection procedures.
Monitor compliance with safety procedures and report any issues.

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
Equipment failure	Injury due to fall	Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment
Weather conditions	Slips, trips, and falls	Work scheduling and use of non-slip footwear

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 as part of a fall arrest system .
Lanyards - Must be approved to CSA Standard Z259.11-17 and used with a shock absorber .
Helmets - To protect against head injuries from falling objects.
Non-slip Footwear - To prevent slips and falls on wet or uneven surfaces .

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Use appropriate equipment and tools to ensure safety.

Guardrails - Installed around open edges to prevent falls.
Safety Nets - Used where guardrails are not feasible.
Anchorage Points - Must be capable of supporting at least 22 kN .
Ladders - Must be stable and used according to safety guidelines.

Inspect equipment regularly and maintain according to manufacturer’s instructions.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must complete a working at heights training program delivered 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 free of unnecessary obstacles and that all safety equipment is in place and functional.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Hazard Assessment

Conduct a thorough hazard assessment of the work area.

Identify potential fall hazards.
Determine the appropriate fall protection system.
Document findings and control measures.

Step 2: Equipment Setup

Set up all necessary equipment and fall protection systems.

Install guardrails and safety nets where applicable.
Ensure all PPE is worn correctly.
Verify that all anchorage points are secure.

Step 3: Perform Work

Carry out the work while adhering to safety protocols.

Maintain three points of contact when climbing.
Use tools and equipment safely.
Stay within designated safe zones.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Use of PPE - Always wear appropriate PPE when working at heights.
Weather Conditions - Avoid working in adverse weather conditions.
Equipment Inspection - Regularly inspect all equipment and PPE.
Communication - Maintain clear communication with team members.
Emergency Preparedness - Be prepared to execute emergency procedures if necessary.

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 Activation - Secure the area and call emergency services.
Injury - Provide first aid and seek medical attention.
Equipment Failure - Cease work and report the incident.

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 implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

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

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