RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

Work Safely at Heights

Training Manual

This Manual Belongs To:

Name
Company

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

1. TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT................................................................................... 4

1.1 Resources and Infrastructure Industry Training Package .................................... 4
1.2 Prerequisites ....................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Assessment Guideline ......................................................................................... 4
1.4 Workbook Questions ........................................................................................... 4
2. GENERAL SAFETY ..................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Evacuation Procedure ......................................................................................... 5
2.1.1 Muster Points .......................................................................................................... 5
2.1.2 Emergency Contact................................................................................................ 5
3. IDENTIFY WORK REQUIREMENTS............................................................................ 6
3.1 Access, interpret and apply compliance documentation ...................................... 6
3.1.1 WAH Procedure ..................................................................................................... 7
3.1.2 Australian Standards.............................................................................................. 7
3.1.3 PNG Mining (Safety) Act 1977 .............................................................................. 7
3.1.4 Duty of Care............................................................................................................ 7
3.1.5 Summary................................................................................................................. 8
3.2 Area Procedures ................................................................................................. 8
3.2.1 Job Safety Analysis (JSA) ..................................................................................... 8
3.2.2 Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) ................................................................. 8
3.3 Identify the scope of the task ............................................................................... 8
3.4 Inspect site .......................................................................................................... 9
3.5 Safety equipment ................................................................................................ 9
3.5.1 Theory Questions ................................................................................................. 11
4. IDENTIFY, MANAGE AND REPORT POTENTIAL RISKS AND HAZARDS ............... 12
4.1 Eliminate the Risk.............................................................................................. 12
4.2 Substitute the Risk ............................................................................................ 12
4.3 Engineering Controls ......................................................................................... 13
4.4 Isolate the Risk .................................................................................................. 13
4.5 Administration Controls ..................................................................................... 13
4.6 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ............................................................... 13
4.6.1 Theory Questions ................................................................................................. 14
5. FALL SAFETY ............................................................................................................ 15
5.1 Fall Restraint System ........................................................................................ 15
5.2 Fall Arrest System ............................................................................................. 15
5.2.1 Fall Clearences..................................................................................................... 16
5.3 Pendulum Effect ................................................................................................ 18
5.3.1 Swing Down .......................................................................................................... 18
5.3.2 Elimination of Pendulum Effect ........................................................................... 18
5.4 Emergency Response ....................................................................................... 19
5.4.1 Suspension Trauma ............................................................................................. 19
5.4.2 Theory Questions ................................................................................................. 21

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6. FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT ............................................................................ 22

6.1 Materials, tools and equipment inspections ....................................................... 22
6.1.1 Safety Harness inspection:.................................................................................. 22
6.1.2 Anchor Point inspection: ...................................................................................... 22
6.1.3 Karabiners and Snap-Hooks inspections ........................................................... 23
6.1.4 Rope Inspections.................................................................................................. 23
6.1.5 Fitting Harness ..................................................................................................... 24
6.2 Hot Work and the Protection of Fall Prevention Equipment. .............................. 24
6.3 Ladders ............................................................................................................. 24
6.3.1 Using Ladders for Access or Egress .................................................................. 26
6.3.2 Using Ladders as a Working Platform ................................................................ 26
6.4 Crane Workbox or Mancage .............................................................................. 26
6.5 Elevating Work Platform (EWP) ......................................................................... 27
6.6 Scaffolds ........................................................................................................... 28
6.7 Inspect/install fall protection and perimeter protection equipment ...................... 29
6.8 Tools at heights ................................................................................................. 29
6.9 Install appropriate signs and barricades ............................................................ 29
6.9.1 Barricade Types ................................................................................................... 29
6.9.2 Barricade Rules .................................................................................................... 30
6.9.3 Theory Questions ................................................................................................. 31
7. CLEAN UP WORK AREA ........................................................................................... 32
7.1 Instructions for Cleaning Harnesses/Lanyards................................................... 32
7.2 Storage of Harnesses/Lanyards ........................................................................ 32
7.3 Energy Absorbing Devices ................................................................................ 32
7.3.1 Theory Questions ................................................................................................. 33

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

1. TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

1.1 Resources and Infrastructure Industry Training Package
Successful completion of the assessment activities for this module will enable you to achieve
a certificate of attendance in RIIWHS204D Safe working at heights

1.2 Prerequisites
Prior to starting your training in this area you must have been deemed competent in the
following:

Pre-requisites for Work Safely at Heights

UNIT CODE DESCRIPTION
Site Access Induction
Area Induction
Competent Permit User
JSA Training

1.3 Assessment Guideline

Assessment for each module requires the successful completion of:
 Written answers to training manual questions
 Written questioning (CBA)
 Practical demonstrations
Completed workbooks need to be submitted for assessment and validation.
At the end of the course all workbooks will be returned to the trainee for future reference and
as evidence of the training completed.

1.4 Workbook Questions

You can complete the questions within the workbooks at any time and in any order. Before
making any permanent entries in the workbook you will need to:
 Read the workbook clearly and seek clarification if the question or activity is
unclear
 Consider using pencil for initial entries
 Answer questions fully and avoid one word answers
 Write neatly and keep the workbook clean and tidy

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

2. GENERAL SAFETY
2.1 Evacuation Procedure
In the event of an emergency perform the following:
 Always report to the nearest muster point.
 Where ever you are, and as you are, calmly leave your location and immediately
make your way to the nearest muster point.
 Do NOT stop to take, or pick anything with you, but your Access Tag
 It is very important, NOT to be casual and immediately report to the muster point
as soon as you possibly can.
 Do not obstruct any members of the Emergency Response Team as you report to
the muster point.
 Remain at the muster point until further notice. At the muster point, further
instructions shall be given as required.

2.1.1 Muster Points

Everyone shall report to the nearest MUSTER POINT when the
total evacuation emergency alarm is been activated.
It is every person‟s responsibility to ensure they are aware of
the nearest muster to their working area.

2.1.2 Emergency Contact

In the event of an EMERGENCY - „Zero Alpha‟ can be
contacted on:
 PHONE: 911
 EXTENSION: 911
 TRUNK NUMBER: 444
Figure 1: Muster Point

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3. IDENTIFY WORK REQUIREMENTS

“Working at Height” is defined as any work activities being undertaken at an elevated
position where a person is at risk of falling from, into or through one level to another.
There are risks associated with working from any elevated position. Controls must be put in
place to ensure persons working at a height of 1.8 metres or more are prevented from
falling.
All tasks that involve the possibility of someone falling more than 1.8 metres must be
conducted using a Working at Heights Permit. Examples of such tasks include:
 construction, demolition, repairs or maintenance on any plant or structure.
 working on fragile or unstable surfaces.
 working on sloping or slippery surfaces.
 fitting truck tarps by climbing across a load.
 working near an edge, hole, pit or shaft.

In some occupations the risk of meeting

with an accident due to a fall is very high.
The disturbing nature of falls from heights
is clearly shown by national statistics of
industrial accidents. Though they are
generally less frequent than accidents of
other kinds, such as those due to the
handling of goods or falling on the level,
they often take first or second place on
account of their serious consequences.
The most dangerous industries in this
respect are mining, building and work of
engineering construction. These
occupations include structural alterations, Working with Fall Arrest Equipment
repair, maintenance and external cleaning.

3.1 Access, interpret and apply compliance documentation

Employers, employees and other workplace contractors and visitors are bound by the
Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Acts and laws in which they work. These laws are
designed to provide you with a safe and healthy workplace. A summary of how these OH&S
laws influence working at heights are:
 The OH&S laws vary between countries while some industries (eg, mines) have a
separate act and laws.
 It is a statutory document – it is the law!
 It enforces health and safety criteria in the workplace
 Objective is to prevent a person‟s death, injury or illness being caused by a
workplace, workplace activity or by high-risk plant.
 It aims to prevent or minimise exposure to death, injury or illness.
 Places a Duty of Care upon employers, principal contractors, self employed,
persons in charge, employees, manufacturers, designers, suppliers, and erectors,
installers and other persons in workplace.

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3.1.1 Clough WAH Procedure

Every Employer is required to have a WAH procedure in place. This procedure shall detail all
the requirements when work is to be performed at 1.8 metres or above.

3.1.2 Australian Standards

The relevant Australian Standard is AS1891: Industrial Fall-Arrest Systems and Devices.

3.1.3 PNG Mining (Safety) Act 1977

Section 45: Any unsafe condition in mine or works to be reported.
(1) Every person employed in or about a mine or works who becomes aware of anything in
or about the mine or works which is likely to cause injury to a person or to the mine or
works shall promptly report the fact to a person in authority at the mine or works.
(2) Every person on leaving the place in any mine or works at which he is employed shall
report–
(a) to the person relieving him; or
(b) to the person in charge at the place,
the condition of the workings at the place.
(3) The manager, on becoming aware of any danger existing in or about a mine or works,
shall take such steps as are necessary to eliminate the danger.
Section 46: Employees to ascertain if appliances are safe.
(1) Every person employed in or about a mine or works shall, before commencing and whilst
at work, take all reasonable precautions to ascertain whether the tubs, trucks, chains,
tackle, windlass, ropes, tools or other appliances used by him and the place in which he
works are safe.
(2) A person shall not–
(a) use any of the appliances referred to in Subsection (1) which appear unsafe; or
(b) remain in any unsafe working place.

3.1.4 Duty of Care

Employer Duties Of Care
Employers owe a “duty of care” to all employees to ensure that every reasonable care has
been taken to provide a safe place of work. Employers duties of care which are covered by
individual legislation include:
 provide safe systems of work
 ensure the safe use, handling, storage or transport of plant or substances
 provide information, instruction, training and supervision
 ensure safety of people who are not their direct employees
Employee Duties Of Care
In return, all employees have a “duty of care” not to act in a manner that endangers the
health and safety of themselves or any other person in the workplace. These duties include:
 co-operate with the employer
 obey all instructions in relation to health and safety
 not to interfere with any safety device
 must wear protective clothing as instructed

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Manufacturer Duties of Care

All manufacturers must ensure that plant and equipment:
 is designed and constructed for safe use
 has been tested and examined
 is accompanied with adequate information and instructions
Installers Duties of Care
Installers and suppliers of all plant must ensure:
 it is installed safely
 it does not present a health or safety risk to persons who use it
 it is not used unless adequate information has been made available

3.1.5 Summary
The Employer must assess the risk of injury or harm resulting from a fall hazard and
consider if the risk may be reduced by:
 installing edge protection;
 using a building maintenance unit that is installed by a competent person;
 using scaffold or a working platform;
 the use of an industrial fall-arrest system, device and an anchorage, which comply
with AS 1891;
 training in the use of fall-arrest systems, personal protective equipment and in
rescue procedures.

3.2 Area Procedures

As well as the inductions mentioned above, you should also make use of the information that
is stored on the site document database. This computer-based system contains many
documents and information that relate to safe working practices.

3.2.1 Job Safety Analysis (JSA)

A JSA details the hazards that have been noted during analysis of certain tasks. If you are
about to conduct a task for which there is no JSA or SOP, you may need to consider
whether a JSA should be carried out.

3.2.2 Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

An SOP details step-by-step procedures that have been compiled for certain tasks. SOP‟s
can be found online on safety management systems.

3.3 Identify the scope of the task

The scope or task details must be clearly defined on the Work at Heights permit.

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Section of Working at Heights Permit showing description of work

Section of Working at Heights Permit showing control measures/type of task

3.4 Inspect site

Before any work at height commences a site inspection must be completed to determine
layout and physical condition, condition of structures, prevailing weather conditions,
equipment requirements and potential hazards.

3.5 Safety equipment

Systems of work and equipment that secure a person to a building or structure are known as
personal fall protection.
Personal fall protection systems should be used to minimise the risk of:
 a person falling from a height (fall restraint system)
 injury to a person after they have fallen from height (fall arrest system).
Personal fall protection may be required to be used in conjunction with other fall protection
systems.
The use of these systems requires appropriate training to ensure the equipment is worn,
attached and used in the correct way.
Relevant Australian/New Zealand Standards for personal fall arrest and restraint equipment
require that they be permanently marked or labelled to indicate their purpose, correct use
and limitations together with other relevant information.
The aim of this marking and labelling is to reduce the incidence of misuse or misfitting of the
equipment. It is important to maintain the legibility of these instructions through the life of the
equipment.

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3.5.1 Theory Questions

Question 1 “Working at Height” is defined as, what?

Question 2 At what minimum height is a Working at Height permit required?

Question 3 List three examples of work at height activities?

Question 4 Fill in the missing blanks?

Before any work at height commences a inspection must be completed to

determine layout and condition, condition of structures, prevailing
, equipment requirements and potential .

Question 5 Personal fall protection systems should be used to minimise the risk of, what?

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4. IDENTIFY, MANAGE AND REPORT POTENTIAL RISKS

AND HAZARDS
A risk assessment using a JSA as a minimum shall be conducted before the commencement
of any work at heights, to determine if there is a potential of falling or being struck by falling
objects. If such hazards are identified, then control measures shall be put in place to
eliminate or reduce the overall risk.
If an assessment shows a risk of a fall from height, or if the work is to be conducted at a
height of more than 1.8 metres, then by law precautions need to be put in place to stop
someone falling. If it‟s not reasonably practicable to take measures to eliminate the risk of a
fall from height, then precautions are needed to reduce the likelihood of a fall and/or the
person being injured.

Hierarchy of Control

There is a preferred order of control measures to eliminate or reduce the risk of falls. The
control measures are listed below ranging from the most effective to the least effective and
should be used when considering what safety measure to apply for conducting work at
height. Where reasonably practicable the first option should be implemented and where that
option is not feasible then each of the additional options should be considered in sequential
order:

4.1 Eliminate the Risk

Remove the risk from the workplace altogether. Wherever possible, this should be the first
option used.
 Work from ground level wherever possible: i.e. prefabricate wall frames horizontally
before standing them up; use paint rollers with extendable handles rather than
ladders.

4.2 Substitute the Risk

Substitute the risk with a less hazardous one. This is the second preferred control solution.
 Use a scaffold to work at heights in place of ladder.
 Use restraint systems rather than fall arrest

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4.3 Engineering Controls

When elimination or substitution of a risk is not an option then the preferred solution is
engineering controls. For example:
 Guard or Hand Rails, Walkways, Fixed Ladders, Cages, Static Lines, Permanent
Anchor Points, Equipment designed to be maintained at ground/foot level

4.4 Isolate the Risk

Isolate or separate the hazard or hazardous work practices from people not involved in the
work or the general work areas.
 Mark off hazardous areas
 Install screens or barriers

4.5 Administration Controls

Introduce work practices that reduce the risk. For example:
 Exclusion Zones
 Warning Signs
 Reduce the number of employees exposed to the hazard

 Provide training on the hazard

 Introduce lock-out procedure

4.6 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

It is important that PPE is viewed as the last preferred
solution for risk control. Efforts regarding the removal of
risks to safety and health, while using PPE, should still
continue by means of elimination, substitution,
engineering isolation and administrative controls in that
order.
In many cases a number of safety measures will be
required to eliminate or reduce the risk of a fall, e.g. when Suspended Worker
using an elevating work platform, personnel are also
required to be anchored to the work basket using a fall arrest system.

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4.6.1 Theory Questions

Question 1 When should a risk assessment be conducted?

Question 2 List control measures to eliminate or reduce the risk of falls.

Question 3 List two (2) ways to substitute the risk of falling from height.

Question 4 Under the Hierarchy of Control, what is the most effective measure to control
the risk?

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5. FALL SAFETY
5.1 Fall Restraint System
A fall restraint system prevents a person from reaching an unprotected edge by tethering
them to a certified eye-bolt or other suitable anchorage point. This type of personal fall
protection system is preferred over those that arrest a person after they have fallen.
Generally, the system consists of a safety belt or harness that is connected by a lanyard to a
suitable anchorage point or static line. The system must be set up to prevent the wearer
from reaching the edge.
Where a temporary certified roof anchor is used as an anchorage for a fall restraint system,
it must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer‟s or designer‟s instructions. The roof
or other building component to which an anchor will be attached must be checked by a
competent person to verify that it is suitable for supporting the anchor.
It is preferable that fall restraint systems are used in conjunction with other fall prevention
methods, such as guardrails, safety nets and catch platforms. The anchorage points should
be capable of taking the load.

Fall Restraint Systems

Fall Arrest System

A fall arrest system is designed to arrest the fall of a person.
The following points describe the different components of a fall arrest system:
 a fall arrest harness is an assembly of interconnected shoulder and leg straps, with
or without a body belt designed to spread the load over the body and to prevent the
wearer from falling out of the assembly.
 a lanyard is a line used, usually as part of a lanyard assembly, to connect a fall
arrest harness to an anchorage point or static line.
 a lanyard assembly consists of a lanyard and a personal energy absorber.
 the lanyard assembly should be as short as practicable and the working slack
length not more than 1.8 m under a free fall condition.

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Types of fall arrest systems:

 where there is a risk of a free fall up to 1.8 m, a fall arrest harness connected to a
lanyard assembly and attached to a fall arrest static line or an anchorage point.
 where there is a risk of a free fall of not more than 600 mm, a ladder belt
connected to a lanyard of not more than 300 mm in length attached to a ladder fall
arrest device.

An important factor in the safe use of a fall arrest

system is to reduce the free fall distance as far as
possible. Correctly installed fall arrest equipment
will only safely arrest a fall if there are no
obstructions in the fall path. The longer the free fall
distance, the greater the risk of the person hitting
obstructions.
Before a fall arrest system is used, the work area
should be inspected to ensure there are no
obstructions in the potential fall path. Any
obstruction should be removed from the fall path
area.
In the event of a person falling, immediate action
should be taken to retrieve the person.

Fall arrest harnesses, lanyards and static lines

provide a satisfactory degree of fall protection
provided the following points are taken into account:
 persons should be properly trained and
supervised in the use of the equipment.
 No back-hooking is allowed
 persons using fall protection such as a fall Figure 2: Fall Arrest System
arrest harness, should not work in
isolation.
 a lanyard assembly should be as short as possible and the working slack length
not more than 1.8 m when used in conjunction with a fall arrest system to minimise
the pendulum effect (belaying).
 the fall arrest anchorage point (fixed or travelling on static lines) should be located
so that the lanyard can be attached before the user moves into a position where he
or she would be at risk from a fall. Anchorage points should have a capacity of 15
kN.
 the components of a fall arrest system should be compatible. The use of non-
compatible components could lead to ineffective equipment that presents a risk of
injury from falling to the person using the equipment.
A work positioning harness may be used with a short lanyard to restrict free fall to less than
600 mm. Refer to AS 1891.4 Industrial fall arrest systems and devices – Selection, use and
maintenance for the selection of an appropriate fall arrest system.
Note: Any fall arrest system must be installed by a certified person and in accordance with
AS/NZS1891 Industrial fall arrest systems and devices – Fall arrest systems.

5.1.1 Fall Clearances

A risk assessment of the site must include an analysis of the distance from the working
surface that the worker could potentially fall.

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When calculating the fall distance the following factors need to be taken into account:
 Anchorage deflection, which is usually small, but may be up to 1.1 m for a
horizontal life-line of under 30 m length prescribed as in AS/NZS 1891.2;
 Static length of the lanyard, which does not usually exceed two metres, but should
be shorter if this suits the worksite;
 Extension of the personal energy absorber, which may be as much as 1.75 m, as
provided for in AS/NZS 1891.1.
 The height of the worker.
 A residual allowance of one metre for the safety margin gives the total fall
clearance requirement.

Fall Clearance = Length of Lanyard + Extension of Absorber+ Height of Worker + Safety Factor

Fall Clearence Calculation

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5.2 Pendulum Effect

This is a potential hazard connected with the use of individual fall arrest systems. It can
occur during „swing down‟ and „swing back‟. The pendulum effect may also occur within the
interior of roof structures if the positioning of the inertia reel allows for a significant length of
unsupported line connected to the user.

5.2.1 Swing Down

Swing Down can occur if an inertia reel is extended out
diagonally so that the line makes an extreme angle with the
roof‟s perimeter edge. In this situation, the forces generated in
an arrested fall over the edge will cause the line to rotate back
along the roof perimeter until it reaches a position directly in
line with the anchorage point of the inertia reel and at right
angles with the roof edge.
As the line moves back in this way, its unsupported section
lengthens, thus dropping the attached worker further than the
original (arrested) fall distance. If the length of the
unsupported line equals the height of the building then the
worker will hit the ground.
Following an arrested fall at this Extreme diagonal, the inertia
line moves back along the roof, dropping the worker
dangerously down to the ground.

5.2.2 Elimination of Pendulum Effect

To eliminate the pendulum effect:
 Place the inertia reel anchorage point more or less
perpendicular to the position of the line at the Pendulum Effect
perimeter edge. A mobile anchorage helps here.
 Use a perimeter guardrail to prevent any falls over the perimeter edge.
In an arrested outward fall, particularly from a perimeter edge, a person will swing back into
the building structure and collide with any obstructions in the path of the swing. If this
situation could arise, the use of an independent fall arrest system should be re-assessed.

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5.3 Emergency Response

Appropriate rescue procedures must be in place for the rescue of a person in an emergency
situation. People who are working at height or an elevated position should not work alone.
This is important if there is the risk of a fall as a person suspended in a full body harness
must be rescued as soon as possible.
A rescue plan is required if identified from a JSA / risk assessment. This must be completed
and attached to the Working at Heights permit before work commences. ERT will generate a
rescue plan when:
 a person is working / suspended above 5 metres,
 a person is working with one means of access & egress above 5 metres, or
 a person is working in an isolated area above 5 metres
ERT personnel must be trained in rescue techniques and be familiar with the site rescue
equipment and emergency rescue procedures.

5.3.1 Suspension Trauma

„Suspension trauma‟ can occur when a person‟s legs are immobile in an upright posture for a
prolonged period, because the lower legs have a large storage
capacity for blood, gravity pulls blood into them.
The return blood flow to the heart is reduced as blood
accumulates in the legs. Because the blood supply to the heart
is then restricted, the body suddenly slows the heart causing
the person to faint.
With the use of a fall-arrest system, suspension trauma may
occur when a person has an arrested fall because they are
suspended and caught in an upright, vertical position and the
harness straps cause pressure on the leg veins.
The blood flow to the heart is reduced, resulting in fainting,
restriction of movement or loss of consciousness in a few
minutes. This may lead to renal failure and eventually death,
depending on a person‟s susceptibility. The condition may be
worsened by heat and dehydration.
Susceptibility to suspension trauma may be unrelated to
fitness level or any other obvious physical conditions.
Therefore, the quick rescue of a person suspended in a full
body harness, as soon as is possible, is vital. For this reason, Harness Footholdstraps
workers should be capable of conducting a rescue of a fallen
worker and be familiar with onsite rescue equipment and procedures.
Workers and emergency response personnel must be trained in the rescue procedures and
be able to recognise the risks of suspension trauma and act quickly in the rescue of a
person.
All harnesses must be fitted with foothold straps to avoid suspension trauma.

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5.3.1.1 Preventing Suspension Trauma

Recommendations for preventing suspension trauma as a result of an arrested fall include:
Workers should never work alone when using a harness as fall protection;
Workers spending time hanging in a harness should use a sit type harness, which allows
legs to be kept horizontal;
The time a worker spends in suspension after a fall should be limited to less than five
minutes. When a suspension is longer than five minutes, foothold straps or a way of placing
weight on the legs should be provided.
Workers should be trained to do the following when they are hanging in their harness after a
fall:
 try to move the legs in the harness and push against any footholds, where these
movements are possible. In some instances, the harness design and/or any
injuries received may prevent this movement; and
 try to move the legs as high as possible and the head as horizontal as possible,
where these movements are possible. These movements are not possible in some
of the harnesses available.
This factor should be considered when selecting a harness for use at the workplace; and
 harnesses should be selected for specific applications, with consideration given to
comfort, potential injuries and suspension trauma.

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5.3.2 Theory Questions

Question 1 What is the difference between a Fall Restraint System and a Fall Arrest
System?

Question 2 What is the formular used to calculate, fall clearances?

Question 3 What is the Pendulum Effect?

Question 4 What conditions determin the need for a rescue plan?

Question 5 What is suspension trauma and how do you prevent it?

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6. FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

6.1 Materials, tools and equipment inspections

6.1.1 Safety Harness inspection:

 inspect the webbing for damage or
defects.
 inspect D rings for damage, wear or tear
and check vertical movement.
 inspect buckles and adjusters for
damage.

6.1.2 Anchor Point inspection:

 all anchorages shall be visually checked
prior to use.
 permanently fixed anchorages in regular
use shall be inspected by a competent
person at not less than six monthly Figure 3: Frayed Harness Strap
intervals.
 permanently fixed anchorages not in regular use, shall be inspected by a
competent person prior to use.
If an anchorage is found to be faulty:
 it shall be tagged to indicate that it is not to be used.
 the repaired anchorage shall not be used until it has been inspected and approved
by a competent person.

Shock Absorbers and Lanyards

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6.1.3 Karabiners and Snap-Hooks inspections

All karabiners and snap-hooks shall be inspected
on a regular basis and also prior each use.
 retire snap hooks, karabiners, and all
integral components if any discoloration,
deformation, cracks, or abrasions are
detected.
 damaged snap hook and karabiners
shall be tagged and removed from
service and the inventory list
 dirty snap hooks and karabiners shall be
cleaned with kerosene, WD-40, or
similar
 karabiners and snap hooks shall not be
side-loaded. Side Loaded Karabiner

6.1.4 Rope Inspections

Ropes shall be inspected on a regular basis and
also prior to each use. Attachment Hardware

 inspect for broken fibres, severely worn

areas, or change in the consistency of the
core; inspect under slight tension and check
for soft areas, bulges, or excessive stiffness.
 avoid exposing rope to hazardous chemicals,
moisture, acids or oils.
 do not use rope after it is impacted or
damaged.
 wash the rope on regular basis with
lukewarm water and mild detergent to
remove dirt or grit; rinse several times to
remove soap residue and hang in a dry, cool,
Figure 4: Ropes
dark area.
 store rope in a strong weatherproof bag, rope should always be dry before placing
in storage.
 rope shall have a permanently attached label indicating manufacture‟s name, serial
number/ lot number, manufacture date and capacity,

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

6.1.5 Fitting Harness

 Look for the label -this goes to the outside with “D” ring above label.
 Don the harness like a jacket, making sure straps are not twisted. Note – left strap
to left buckle, right strap to right buckle. Do not cross between legs.
 To adjust leg straps, squat down, legs apart, adjust strap firmly against thighs – do
not over tighten, then stand up.
When standing harness should be comfortable without undue pressure on shoulder or pelvic
region

6.2 Hot Work and the Protection of Fall Prevention Equipment.

A large part of the equipment and components of fall prevention systems consists of material
which may be badly damaged and weakened by hot particles or sparks from oxy cutting,
welding or any associated process.
Therefore, people using the equipment and the fall protection equipment itself, must be
protected from hot particles or sparks. For example, use fire retardant harnesses and
lanyards, lanyards with a cable wire core or a fire retardant blanket.

6.3 Ladders
The safety requirements and considerations when using ladders include:
 the type of ladder is appropriate to the task, do not use „domestic‟ or „home-made‟
ladders. All ladders must comply with AS/NZS 1892 series and users should follow
the manufacturer‟s recommendations on safe use.
 the ladder is in good condition, before it is used, the ladder should be inspected for
faults, such as broken rungs, rails and footing. Consult the manufacturer‟s
checklist, if available.
 slip resistant base, rungs or steps are provided.
 damaged ladders are removed from service.
 ladders are not used in access areas or next to doors when the work involves hot
work, on scaffolding or an EWP to get extra height, next to power lines, in very wet
or windy conditions and next to traffic areas unless the working area is barricaded.
 metal or wire bound ladders are never used close to energised power lines; non-
metallic ladders should be used instead.

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

When setting up a ladder you must ensure:

 the ladder is on firm, stable and level

ground.
 the ladder is the correct height for the
task to avoid reaching or stretching,
keep the body centred between side
rails at all times
 the ladder is not too close or too far
from the support structure. The ratio
must be one to four, e.g. the distance
between the ladder base and the
supporting structure should be about
one metre for every four metres of
working ladder height.
 the ladder is secured against
displacement (i.e. slipping or sliding)
and/or there is another person holding
the base of the ladder.
 the ladder is not placed so that the
weight of the ladder and any person
using the ladder is supported by the Figure 5: Ladder Positioning
rungs.
 all the locking devices on the ladder are secure.
When using a ladder, you must ensure:
 You maintain 3 points of contatct at all times
 the ladder is always faced while climbing up or down.
 materials or tools are not carried while climbing the ladder. Tools should be carried
in a tool belt or side pouch
 only light duty work is undertaken while on the ladder, where three points of
contact can be maintained and tools can be operated safely with one hand.
 no person should stand on a ladder any higher than 900 mm from the top of the
ladder.
 no other person is allowed on the ladder at the same time.

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

6.3.1 Using Ladders for Access or Egress

Where fixed/extension ladders are used for access or egress, check that:
 they are used only for access to, or egress from a working area, not as a working
platform, consider whether an elevating work platform or scaffolding would be
safer.
 there is a firm and level work platform, free from obstructions, to step onto from the
ladder.
 the ladder extends at least 900 mm above the stepping-off point on the working
platform, sufficient platform area must be
provided at the stepping off point.

 edge protection is provided at the stepping

off point where people access the working
platform.

6.3.2 Using Ladders as a Working Platform

Where portable or fixed ladders are used as working
platforms, check that:
 a fall-restraint or arrest system is used, if the
person is exposed to a fall of 1.8 or more
metres, refer AS/NZS 1891.4 for anchorage
requirements.
 three points of contact with the ladder are
maintained at all times.
 no work is carried out over another person. Figure 6: 3 points of Contact

6.4 Crane Workbox or Mancage

The use of a workbox shall be limited to those situations where it is necessary to suspend
persons to perform special tasks of short duration and where it has been substantiated to be
inappropriate to use elevating work platforms,
scaffolding or temporary platform arrangements.
All people working from a mancage/workbox must
wear safety harness and be anchored securely to the
mancage/workbox at all times.
Before persons are to be suspended from a crane, the fit
and competent crane operator shall:
 ensure that the workbox and lifting attachments
have been inspected by a competent person
prior to use, and that the logbook has been
checked.
 ensure that at the maximum radius of the task
to be performed, the crane has a minimum Work Box
rated lifting capacity of 1,000kg.
 ensure that, when the jib or boom of the crane is at its maximum radius for the task
to be performed, the rated lifting capacity of the crane in this condition, when
divided by 2, is equal; to or greater than the total load of the workbox and its
contents.

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

 ensure that the workbox is not used in winds in excess of 7m/s (25 km/h), electrical
storms or other adverse weather conditions that could affect the safety of persons.
When persons are suspended from a crane, the crane operator shall:
 remain at the controls of the crane.
 ensure that all movements of the crane are carried out under power.
 ensure that the workbox is only being used to lift persons and their equipment.
 have effective means of communication with any person in the workbox.
 ensure that the crane does not travel while people are in the workbox.
 ensure that movements of the workbox are slow with minimum acceleration and
deceleration.

6.5 Elevating Work Platform (EWP)

Elevating work platforms (EWPs) are available in a variety of types and sizes for most work
situations. They are generally of the boom type, scissor lifts and vertical mast. The use of
EWPs should be guided by Australian Standard, AS 2550.10 Cranes - Safe Use - Elevating
work platform.

Operators using
an EWP shall:
 wear
an anchored
safety harness
and lanyard
incorporating a
shock absorber
as precaution
against
mechanical
failure of the
basket. The
lanyard should
be as short as
possible and
must arrest the
Operator in an EWP
fall before the
Elevated Work Platform
user strikes the ground.
 be trained and assessed as competent to use the specific type of equipment.
 conduct daily pre-start inspections.
 use the EWP for its designated purpose and within its designed operating capacity.
 comply with specific training and site or area restrictions for the operation of the
equipment
 only stand within the basket, and do not use the EWP as a means of access to, or
egress from a work area.
 not work closer than 10 metres to exposed overhead power lines.

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6.6 Scaffolds
Scaffolds are erected to provide a temporary work platform for
undertaking a variety of tasks. There are specific requirements
that apply to the design, construction and erection of
scaffolding. Scaffolding work platforms are generally rated as
light, medium or heavy duty;
Light duty - up to 225 kg per bay. This is suitable for plastering,
painting, electrical work and other light tasks.
Medium duty - up to 450 kg per bay. This is suitable for general
trades work, e.g. building maintenance.
Heavy duty - up to 675 kg per bay. This is required while
performing bricklaying, concreting, demolition work and most
other work involving heavy loads.
The safety requirements and considerations when using
scaffold include: Figure 7: Scaffolds

 scaffolding must conform to Australian/New Zealand AS/NZS 4576 and the

AS/NZS 1576 series.
 if scaffolding is to be erected or dismantled at a height exceeding four metres, the
scaffolding must be erected or dismantled by a certified scaffolder.
 a person must not alter scaffolding without authority from the main contractor.
 modular scaffolds must be of the same type, not mixed components, mixed
components from different manufacturers may result in scaffold incompatibilities
and failures.
 mobile tower frame scaffolds can be used to provide safe working platforms.
 scaffolding that is incomplete and left unattended should have danger tags and
warning signs attached at appropriate locations to prevent use.

 scaffolding exceeding four metres in height should be

inspected and tagged - using a Scafftag - by a
competent person before use, after any alteration or
repair, and at intervals not greater than 30 days.
 additional inspections should be carried out by a
competent person, following an occurrence such as a
severe storm or earthquake.
 safe access to and egress from the scaffold must be
provided.
 edge protection (guard rails and toe boards) must be
provided at every open edge of a work platform.
Meshing should be installed over access and egress
points.
 all scaffold planks and boards need to be secured to the
scaffold structure
 a Scafftag must be visible at the entry point to a
scaffold. If the tag is not filled out, is not displaying the
green side or has been removed, then the scaffold shall
not be used. All sections of the Scafftag must be filled
Scafftag
out. and the duty rating of the scaffold must be taken
into account.
All persons working in a situation where they are at risk of falling shall wear a full body
harness and shock absorbing lanyard attached to a secure (and rated) anchor point on the

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

structure. This applies to the construction and dismantling of scaffolding when work is being
conducted outside the protection of handrails and mid-rails.

6.7 Inspect/install fall protection and perimeter protection equipment

All equipment must be thoroughly inspected prior to use when working at height to safe
guard against incidents and accidents caused by faulty equipment and to ensure adequacy
for work and conformance to regulatory requirements.

6.8 Tools at heights

Identify approved methods of moving tools and equipment to work area and minimise
potential hazards associated with tools at heights. Controls may include:
 provision of safe means of raising and lowering plant, materials and debris in the
place of work.
 provision of a secure physical barrier to prevent objects falling freely from buildings
or structures in the vicinity of the place of work.
 if it is not possible to provide a secure physical barrier, provision of measures to
arrest the fall of objects.
 provision of appropriate personal protective equipment.

6.9 Install appropriate signs and barricades

Where overhead work is being conducted, barricades and
signage shall be erected around the work area to protect
persons below from falling objects.
Two types of barricades allowable:
 a Danger Barricade allows no unauthorised entry
 a Caution Barricade requires persons to stop,
look, think, then proceed with caution if safe to do
so.
Signage
Each Danger or Caution barricade shall have an
Information Tag attached to identify, the purpose, the person who placed the barricade, and
the duration of requirement of the barricade.
In the event of an „Incident‟, the area is to be cordoned off with a Danger Barricade then
Incident Area Tags shall be attached to the tape at all points of entry, the Incident Area Tags
shall clearly state the nature of the incident and the name of the Control Person.

6.9.1 Barricade Types

Barricades can be constructed in one of three (3) ways:
 Danger Tape,
 Caution Tape,
 Hard barricading
Danger Barricade
A Danger Barricade shall be erected where High Risk Hazards exist and authorisation is
required from the Responsible Person listed on the Information Tag to:
 restrict access to a defined area containing hazards and risks, e.g: a hole in the
ground; overhead work is being conducted from which an object may fall;
commissioning or testing of equipment; construction and building areas;

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

earthworks involving mobile and other moving equipment; other risks such as
chemical leaks; etc.
 provide protection to those personnel working within the defined area from
unauthorised access by any other person or activity. e.g: work being performed
below ground where protection is required to ensure no unauthorised activity
occurs around or over the top.
Caution Barricade
A Caution Barricade shall be erected when hazards exist yet it is safe to enter the area
provided the person is aware of the hazards, does not pose an increased risk to people
working in the area and has all required PPE.
Hard Barricade
Provide a physical barrier and must be used with taping to indicate whether it is a Danger or
Caution barricade. Hard barricades should be used where an increased level of protection is
required – for example preventing entry to an area where a fall may occur such as removed
floor mesh or handrails, pit/excavations, edge protection or where work is being performed
overhead and there is a risk of falling objects.

Types of Barricades

6.9.2 Barricade Rules

The following are the minimum requirements:
 the barricade shall fully enclose the area that is protected or restricted, including
any stairs, ladders or pathways that may lead from another area into the protected
or restricted area,
 each barricade shall have a sufficient number of Information Tags attached to
enable any person approaching the barricade from any side to easily find one,
 each hard barricade erected shall have securely attached to it a sufficient amount
of Danger/Caution Tape to provide visible warning at all sides. Each recognised
entry point shall have Danger/Caution Tape across it and an Information Tag
attached,
 where a barricade crosses a recognised walkway, an Information Tag shall be
located across that walkway. In these circumstances, where possible an alternate
safe access (walkway) should be provided,
 no person shall enter into a Danger barricaded area unless authorised to do so,
 no person shall enter into a Caution barricaded area unless they are aware of the
hazards, pose no increased risk to the people working in the area, and have all of
the required PPE,
 in the case of Danger barricades, authority to enter shall be obtained from the
person who has control of the barricade as indicated on the Information Tags
attached,

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

 any person failing to comply with entry requirements and entering a barricaded
area shall be liable for disciplinary action,
 the barricade and Information Tags are to be maintained in good condition during
the life of their requirement,
 if the barricade is inactive, i.e. no work is required to be done within the barricaded
area; the barricade owner can leave the site without removing their Information
Tags. The Area Supervisor becomes the temporary barricade owner and should
be contacted if access is required during this inactive period,
 when the barricade is no longer required, it is to be totally removed immediately by
the barricade owner (or designated person) – barricades shall not be left in place
when they are no longer required.

6.9.3 Theory Questions

Question 1 What do you check during a harness inspection?

Question 2 If an anchorage is found to be faulty what actions should you take?

Question 3 How do you fit a harness?

Question 4 When using a ladder what must you maintain at all times?

Question 5 Who is aurthorised to operate an EWP?

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

Question 6 When scaffolding is above four (4)meters what must be attached before it is
approved for use?

Question 7 What types of barricading can be constructed on site?

7. CLEAN UP WORK AREA

Lanyards and harnesses should be regularly cleaned when soiled, but depending on their
condition, the period between cleanings should not exceed 3 months.

7.1 Instructions for Cleaning Harnesses/Lanyards

 First wipe off all surfaces dust, dirt, mud, etc., with a damp sponge.
 Use pure soap and water, thoroughly lather the harness.
 Rinse off in clean water and wipe as dry as possible with a clean cloth.
 To remove heavy deposits of grease, use pure soap and water. Use a brush to
work the soap into the webbing and rinse off with water.
 The harness should be left to dry thoroughly, by hanging freely in a position where
they are not exposed to excessive heat or steam.

7.2 Storage of Harnesses/Lanyards

While not being worn, harnesses should be stored in a cool dry place and not subjected to
direct sunlight.
The use of purpose designed cabinets or enclosures, which allow ventilation is
recommended. If harnesses become wet, they should not be dried by direct heat.
The equipment should not be subjected to unnecessary strain or pressure, and must be kept
free from contact with sharp implements, corrosives and other possible causes of damage.
Recommended cleaning instructions should be followed.

7.3 Energy Absorbing Devices

If a person wearing a harness and lanyard falls, there is a considerable shock loading to the
body. The further the fall the greater the shock. Generally, the maximum distance a person
should fall before arrest is 2 metres. Shock absorbing devices in the form of tear-away
stitching, stretch springs or deforming metal strip may be built into the lanyard to reduce the
shock.
Once these devices have been shock loaded in a fall they must be discarded.

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 RIIWHS204D WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS TRAINING

7.3.1 Theory Questions

Question 1 How often must fall prevention equipment be cleaned?

Question 2 How do you clean harnesses?

Question 3 Where should you store fall protection equipment?

Question 4 What must you do with an Energy Absorbing Device once it has been shock
loaded?

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8. REFERENCES AND RELATED DOCUMENTS

8.1 Definitions

Term Definition
Anchor points secure points of attachment for lifelines and lanyards
Approved safety full body harness of the parachute style with as a minimum a fall
harness arrest attachment point at the top dorsal position, which was
manufactured and complies with AS/NZS1891.
Elevating Work includes cherry pickers, boom lifts, scissor lifts, order pickers and
Platform (EWP) building maintenance units.
Fall arrest a fall or the arrest of a fall where the person falling is partially
restrained by a device such as a pole strap, or is sliding down a
slope on which it is not normally possible to walk without the
assistance of a handrail or handline.
Falling where a person is at risk of falling from, through or into a place or
thing.
Fall restraint a situation where a fall to a lower level is not possible. Achieved
through control of a persons movement, by means of a combination
of approved devices such as a safety harness, lanyard and
anchorage point, which will physically prevent the person from
reaching a position at which there is a risk of falling
Free fall a fall or the arrest of a fall where the distance before the fall arrest
system begins to take any loading.
JSA Job Safety Analysis
Lanyard a lanyard is used to connect an approved safety harness to an
anchorage point or static line in situations where there is a risk of a
fall or when used in restraint mode to prevent a fall. Lanyards can be
either adjustable or fixed length and may incorporate the use of a
shock absorber.
Static Line a horizontal safety line or rail system to which a lanyard may be
attached and which is designed to arrest a free fall. (as per AS/NZS
1891.4)
Scaffolding a temporary structure, stage or platform specifically erected to
support access or working platforms, personnel, plant or other
material.
Workbox or Mancage a work platform purpose designed and constructed for raising and
lowering personnel by crane. Such equipment must be certified and
registered.
Working at height refers to any work activities being undertaken at an elevated
position. Where a person is working at a height of 1.8 metres or
more, controls must be placed to ensure the person is prevented
from falling.

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8.2 External References

 AS 1418.1 Cranes, Hoists and Winches – General Requirements.
 AS 1418.10 Cranes (Including Hoists and Winches) – Elevating Work Platforms.
 AS 1418.17 Cranes (including hoists and winches) – Design and Construction of
Workboxes.
 AS/NZS 1576 series Scaffolding.
 AS 1657 Fixed Platforms, Walkways, Stairways and Ladders – Design,
Construction and Installation.
 AS/NZS 1891.1 Industrial Fall-Arrest Systems and Devices: Safety Belts and
Harnesses.
 AS/NZS 1891.2 Industrial Fall-Arrest Systems and Devices: Horizontal Lifeline and
Rail Systems.
 AS/NZS 1891.2 Supp1 Industrial Fall-Arrest Systems and Devices: Horizontal
lifeline and Rail systems: Prescribed Configurations for Horizontal Lifelines.
 AS/NZS 1891.3 Industrial Fall-Arrest Systems and Devices: Fall-Arrest Devices.
 AS/NZS 1891.4 Industrial Fall-Arrest Systems and Devices: Selection, Use and
Maintenance.
 AS/NZS 1892 series Portable Ladders.
 AS 2317 Collared Eyebolts.
 AS 2550.1 Cranes, Hoists and Winches – Safe Use – General Requirements.
 AS 2250.10 Cranes – Safe Use – Elevating Work Platforms.
 AS 2626 Industrial Safety Belts and Harnesses – Selection, Use and Maintenance.
 Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations.
 PNG Mining (Safety) Act 1977 and Regulation: Chapter 195A.

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