When working at height, it is important to understand the rules designed to reduce the risk of falls from height and other work-related personal injuries or fatalities to improve ladder safety.
Appropriate Safety Equipment
The most basic rule when working at heights is always use appropriate safety equipment. This includes helmets, safety harnesses or lanyards, and other personal protective equipment (PPE). The type of PPE required depends on the job that needs to be performed, and users should always follow the advice of their employer or a qualified professional. It’s also essential to ensure that any equipment used has been inspected and ok’d for use in the workplace and covered by the work at height regulations.
Equipment Inspected & Approved
In addition, employers must ensure that any ladders, steps, platforms or scaffold towers used for working at height are safe. All components should be correctly installed and inspected regularly by a qualified professional. It’s also essential that workers are trained on how to safely set up and use any ladders, scaffold towers, or other equipment before they begin their tasks.
Prepare a Risk Assessment
Workers should also take extra precautions to prevent slips, trips, and falls when working at height by preparing a comprehensive risk assessment. It’s important not to try and avoid working alone if possible. Working in teams and having another person there can help spot potential dangers before they become an issue.
Users Trained to Work at Height
Finally, it’s essential that employers provide safety training courses for employees who will be working at heights, for example, Ladder Association or PASMA courses. During these courses, trainees will learn how far apart guard rails should be placed on scaffold towers or the types of ladders or steps that are most suitable. Additionally, employers should keep detailed records of all safety checks carried out on ladders and steps and equipment used.
TB Davies offers a range of Ladder Association and PASMA-accredited courses, with safety courses occurring every month. Contact our sales team for more details of the next working at height training course or find out the nearest class in your area and help prevent a fall.
