File Name: OHS Learner Guide V1

Revision Date: 21/09/2022 Page 1 of 30

No of Pages: 30 School of Rigging
510 Allambie Lane, Gumlow QLD 4815
ABN: 66 515 025 802
M: 0407 480 920
Email: jodie@sortraining.com.au
www.school-of-rigging.com.au

WHS/OHS Law & Legislation

OHS Learner Guide

RTO No: 31178 – www.totalmantra.com.au

Training and assessment is undertaken under the auspice of the Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO) the Total Management & Training (RTO No: 31178).
Information about this RTO can be found by visiting www.totalmantra.com.au or at https://training.gov.au/Organisation/Details/31178
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MODULE ONE
1.1 High Risk Work & WHS Legislation
Any person undertaking training for High Risk Work must be enrolled in a course of HRW training and supervised
at the workplace by a person who holds that qualification equivalent or higher. As a learner undertaking training,
you will learn how to work safely and efficiently. Upon completion of training, you will be assessed. If successful,
you will be able to make your application for that class of High Risk Work Licence.
 Under the WHS regulations, a trainee is defined as a person who receives formal and informal training in
a class of High Risk Work (HRW) with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and must be supervised
by a person who holds that class of licence. This is the only time you can participate in HRW if you do not
hold that class of licence.

A breach of these obligations can lead to prosecution in a criminal court with fines up to $300,000 for an employee
and $6,000,000 for an employer.
It is the employer’s obligation to provide a safe work place, training supervision and PPE for all employees.

1.1.1 Making the Application

 Once passing an assessment, you will receive your statement of attainment “Candidate Assessment
Summary (CAS)” Form which will last for 60 days from date of issue.
 If you do not lodge your application within this time, your licence will ticket will be cancelled and you will
have to re-sit the course if you wish to obtain your licence for the specified work.
Once training is complete, you will be able to lodge your application for your High Risk Work licence online at:

• www.worksafe.qld.gov.au
• click the tab “Licencing & registrations”
• click the tab “Apply for high risk work licence”
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• Scroll to Step 4 and click on the “application for a new Queensland HRW Licence”
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• Read through the declaration, click “Next”

• Check the tick box that you have read and understood the privacy information and click “Next”
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• Click “Proceed to QGOV”

• Login to your QGOV account or register for a QGOV account and follow the instructions.
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1.1.2 High Risk Work Licenses

Until you receive your HRW license, you can use your statement of attainment if requested by an employer to
prove you hold that class of license. Once you receive your HRW licence, you can use this as proof you hold the
applicable licence relevant to your work.
Your HRW licence lasts for 5 years, in which it must be renewed.
 Failure to renew your licence within 12 months of expiry will result in your HRW licence being cancelled.

As an HRW licence holder it is your responsibility exercise proper diligence when performing high risk work.
Failing to do so can lead to the licence holder being penalised under WHS regulations.
 Consequences may include:
➢ suspension or cancellation of your HRW licence
➢ refusal to renew HRW licence
➢ Fines
➢ Jail
Under no circumstance can an employer allow a person to conduct HRW if they are not competent to do so.
Retraining may be necessary or the HRW licence holder must hand in their licence.

1.2 Planning the Job

Be aware of requirements relating to your work. Before starting work, ensure you have access to relevant
documentation to help plan your work.

Requirements may include but not limited to:

• OH&S requirements
• Duty of care
• Safe Work Procedures
• Safe Work Method Statements SWMS
• Erection Sequence Methodology

Before conducting any erection/demolition or machine operations, it is important to follow:

➢ The Erection Sequence Methodology (ESM)

➢ Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) in consultation with erection drawings,
➢ Temporary works engineer
➢ Principal contractor
➢ Site procedures.
This will ensure that the required materials and equipment are delivered to site in the right sequence, cranes, EWPs
etc. are positioned to maximise efficiency, there are sufficient lay down areas to unload incoming materials and the
task is completed in a safe manner. All equipment must be inspected before and after use, in accordance with
manufacturer’s specifications/ operator’s manuals to ensure the equipment is safe to use.
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Plant and equipment must be positioned correctly in relation to the task being performed to maximise capabilities
and safety. Positioning of your tools and equipment will allow you to work closer, cut down time and cause minimal
disruption to the task.

1.2.1 Occupational Health & Safety, Work Health & Safety Requirements
Occupational Health & Safety/ Work Health & Safety legislation can be broken down into four main types:
Workplace Health & Safety Act
An act of parliament and is law (must do) will refer to

Workplace Health & Safety Regulation

This is also law but tells you (how to meet your obligations under the act) and will refer to

Codes of Practise
A recommendation of industry best practices (can be referred to in a court of law)

Australian Standards

The minimum levels of performance or quality for hazard, work process or product

1.2.2 Harmonisation of Work Health & Safety Legislation

Harmonisation aims to develop reasonable, consistent and effective safety standards and protections for Australian
workers the uniform WHS laws, regulations and Codes or Practice.

Key elements of WHS legislation impacts the way work is performed and responsibilities in the workplace:

• A primary duty of care requiring persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to ensure, so far
as reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers who may be affected by the carrying out of
work
• A requirement that officers of corporations and unincorporated bodies exercise due diligence to ensure
compliance
• Workers must exercise reasonable care that their acts or omissions do not adversely affect the health and
safety or persons at a workplace
Specific details relating to WH&S will be negotiated within the workplace in accordance with the legislation.
Speak with your Health & Safety representative or supervisor for more information regarding how these elements
affect your day to day work activities/duties. Familiarise yourself with OH&S/WH&S laws that exist in your state or
territory.
The following OH&S/WH&S legislative requirements will affect the way you work:

• Duty of Care
• Australian Standards
• Industry OH&S/WH&S Standards
• Health & Safety representatives, committees and supervisors
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• Job Safety Analysis JSA

• Safe Work Method Statements SWMS
• National Safety Standards
• Licences, tickets or certificates of competency
• OH&S/WH&S and welfare Acts and Regulations
• Codes of Practice

1.2.3 Duty of Care

 Your legal obligation as a High Risk Work licence holder is to work in such a manner as to not harm or
injure yourself or others. This is your duty of care.

All personnel/workers have a legal responsibility under duty of care to do everything reasonably practicable to
protect others by complying with safe work practices. This includes activities that require licences, tickets or
certificates of competency or any other relevant state and territory OH&S/WH&S requirements.
Personnel/workers include but is not limited to:
• Employers
• PCBU
• Self-employed persons
• Supervisors
• Workers
• Inspectors
• Manufacturers
• Suppliers
• Designers

1.2.4 Safe Work Practices

Safe work practices are implemented to ensure a job is carried out as safety as possible. The practices include:

• Day to day observations of OH&S/WH&S policies and procedures

• Emergency protocols
• Risk management
• Use of basic firefighting equipment
Safe work procedures are governed by legislative requirements and workplace procedures which relate to:

• Drugs and alcohol at work

• General requirements for the safe use of plant and equipment
• Access to site amenities
• General use of PPE
• Designated smoking area
• General housekeeping requirements
• Storage and removal of debris
• Prevention of harassment in the workplace
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Refer to safe work practices completing SWMS as a guidelines when ne for how to carry out the task safely.

1.2.4.1 Fatigue
Fatigue is mental or physical exhaustion that stops a person from functioning normally. Although fatigue is
mainly caused by a lack of sleep, a person may also become fatigued through prolonged periods of physical or
mental effort, without enough time to rest and recover. The level of fatigue varies, and depends on the following:

(a) workload
(b) length of the shift
(c) previous hours and days worked
(d) time of day or night worked
(e) driving time required to get to a job.
Fatigue has an adverse effect on every aspect of human performance. High levels of fatigue can cause reduced
performance and productivity at work and increase the risk of incidents and injuries occurring. Fatigue can affect
the ability to think clearly, which is vital when making safety-related decisions and judgements. Persons working
in a fatigued state may place themselves and others at risk. The most common effects associated with fatigue are:

(a) desire to sleep

(b) lack of concentration
(c) impaired recollection of timing and events
(d) irritability
(e) poor judgement
(f) reduced capacity for interpersonal communication
(g) reduced hand-eye coordination
(h) reduced visual perception
(i) reduced vigilance
(j) slower reaction times.

1.2.4.2 Managing fatigue

Managing fatigue is a shared responsibility between PCBUs and their workers, as it involves factors both inside
and outside of work. Workers are required to ensure that they make appropriate use of their rest days and are fit
for duty on rostered shifts.

1.2.5 Safe Work Method Statements SWMS

1.2.5.1 What is a SWMS?
A SWMS is a procedure which helps integrate accepted safety and health principles and practices into a particular
task or job operation document used for high risk construction work activities. It list the Job steps, breaks them
down into individual tasks, identifies the potential hazards and risks arising from the activities, and implements
control measures to eliminate or lessen the risk, likelihood and consequence.
A SWMS must be prepared on consultation with all involved in the task. The SWMS must be available for inspection
at any given time and must be reviewed and amended each year or as the job or hazards change.
A SWMS may also be referred to as Safe Work Procedures (SWP) or Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
How to complete a SWMS
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• Break down the job into logical steps

• Identify hazards associated with the job step
• Implement control measures to mitigate the hazards
• Identify roles and responsibilities for actions and outcomes. This ensures controls are carried out and
supervision of the process occurs
• Ensure the SWMS is understood by all workers prior to commencement of the task

1.2.5.2 Job Safety Analysis (JSA)

1.2.6 Assess the task and gather site information

Before starting work, it is important to gather information on what the task is:
 What are the crane procedures for the site?
 Will you be erecting or dismantling plant or equipment?
 Do you need to familiarise yourself with the task and components before commencing the task?
 Have you signed onto the SWMS and JSA?

1.2.6.1 Review site information

Talk to other workers and supervisors to review site information to ensure the task has been set up correctly and
you have all equipment needed to complete the task. Ensuring equipment is in the correct location prior to coming
the task will help complete the task on time.
Work must be conducted in accordance with safety standards and workplace rules to keep all workers safe.
All plant and structures must be moved ad erected in accordance with procedures and site information.
Procedures include:
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• Local conditions
• SWMS
• Site specific JSA
• Task plans
• Work schedules
• Structural plans

1.2.7 Working at Heights

• What equipment is needed for the job?
• Do you have the correct equipment available?
• Site specific procedures and protocols
These factors will introduce different hazards and controls for the works to be carried out safely.
 Pre-planning is an important part of the job. It allows us to prepare for the day, so we are organized and
can work efficiently. Some things which we would take into consideration in the pre-planning stage which
are not hazards may include:
➢ Communications
➢ Task specifics/requirements
➢ Machinery needed
➢ Access & egress into task location
➢ Task plans, steel schedules, material lay down
area
➢ Task location
➢ Load weight and dimensions
➢ Rigging equipment required
➢ Permits and licences required
➢ Capability of the crane
➢ Equipment availability
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1.2.8 Forces & Loads

A load is any type of force exerted on an object. There are different types of forces and loads
which are associated with rigging work which you may encounter. These loads and forces must
be considered in your risk assessment whenever undertaking activities such as Dogging, Rigging,
Scaffolding, Erecting or Dismantling Plant or Equipment and Demolition Work. Types of loads or
forces you need to allow for are:

 Dead Load The self-weight ‘Tare Weight” of the Equipment.

 Dynamic Load Extra Load or force created by movement of the load such as slewing, winching or rotating
the load.
 Live Load The load made up of people and material that may be safely supported be an EWP, Man
box, Scaffold, Swing stage or Platform.
 Static Load A load that is stationary – non-moving, still.
 Wind Load Extra load caused by the force of the wind on load and equipment

1.2.8.1 Determine forces & loads

Determine forces and loads when erecting and dismantling plant and structures to ensure it has been rigged
correctly. This includes working out the weight of plant and equipment and additional weights of loads.
Forces such as wind can be extremely dangerous when operating equipment or shifting loads. Be aware of extra
loading caused by wind.
Once you have considered all loads and forces, you will be able to make sure that:

• Hoists and winches are configured correctly

• Lifting equipment and load destinations can support the load
• All associated plant and equipment are capable and appropriate for completing the task

1.2.8 Working on a Portable Ladder

There are two grades of ladder, Industrial and Domestic. Domestic ladders MUST NOT be used for industrial use
as they are not as strong as an industrial grade ladder.
Like any equipment, you must check your ladder for defects before setting up
and using it.

1.2.8.1 Safe use of ladders

The rule for setting up a ladder for use is 4:1 vertical to horizontal. Meaning for
every 4m up the ladder must extend 1m to the horizontal.
The ladder must be secured at the top and the bottom. Your feet should never
go higher than 900mm from the top of a single or extension ladder or third tread
from the top for a step ladder. Depending on the type of work, you may be
required to use a fall arrest system connected to the ladder.
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• Ensure the ladder is extended 1.0m above the roof line

• Always inspect your ladder prior to its use do not use a damaged ladder
• Always face the ladder and maintain 3 points of contact
• Always remain inside the stiles
• Check the ladder load rating

1.3 Risk Management

Risk management is the process of reducing or managing risks when working
with hazards or in a hazardous situation and should take into consideration the
context of the organisation and worksite.
Risk management is made up of the following steps:
1. Risk/Hazard Identification
2. Risk/Hazard Assessment 1. Risk/Hazard Analysis
3. Risk/Hazard Treatment 2. Risk/Hazard Evaluation

This process must be monitored and reviewed frequently. A simple way to remember is:
Identify Assess Control Hazards

1.3.1 Consultation and communication with others

Liaising and communicating with other workers, supervisors and management are an essential part of the risk
management process. Controlling a hazard is a team effort and is important that everyone knows what they must
do and if needed, how to change their work process to best suit.

1.3.1.1 Who can we talk to?

People we can talk to about hazards may include:
 Safety advisor (Inductions, site procedures, hazards)
 Supervisor (Job task, equipment requirement and schedules)
 Other workers (local knowledge on site hazards)
 Engineer (structural capacities and floor loadings, ground stability)
 Safety representative (unresolved safety issues)
 Manager (any issues not resolved at the lower levels)
It is important to communicate with other worker, engineers and site safety advisors about hazards and control
measures before commencing work to ensure that everyone is aware of the hazard and it has been controlled
effectively, allowing personnel to work safely.
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1.3.2 Risk/Hazard Identification

Hazards create Risk. Check for Hazards!
A RISK is the possibility that harm might occur when exposed to a hazard.
A HAZARD is a thing or situation that has the potential to cause harm or damage.
You must remove or control the hazard to reduce risk to an acceptable level.

Identifying potential workplace hazards:

Look up
- Powerlines
- Trees
- Overhead service lines
- Environment: sun, rain, lightning, wind
On the ground
- Buildings
- Structures
- Machinery
- Other vehicles
- People
- Pedestrians
- Ground conditions: sloping, uneven, wet, soft
Below the ground:
- Trenches (Rule 1:1), recently back filled trenches
- Underground services

1.3.3 Power lines & safe working distances for QLD

If working near power lines, you must maintain certain distances from them. Each state and territories have different
standards for working near power lines. Queensland refers to the “Electrical Safety Code of Practice” – Working
near exposed live parts. This must be followed and gives the minimum working distance as guidance.
Practical advice is provided in the Code of Practice – Working near overhead and underground electric lines
The Electrical Safety Act 2002 which regulates work around overhead power lines.

Overhead power line contact is one of the largest single causes of fatalities associated with mobile plant and
equipment.

Contact with live overhead power lines is a serious risk because any voltage that causes sufficient current to pass
through the heart is potentially injurious or even fatal. Contact with live electricity can also cause serious burns
arising from the discharge of electrical energy.
Other risks include fires and explosions that may immobilise the equipment involved. You don’t have to have a
direct contact with a high voltage overhead power line to receive a fatal electric shock. Simply being too close can
kill.
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1.3.3.1 Safe distances from powerlines

Safe Distance from powerlines for Qld when performing high risk activities are as follows:

Dogging & Machine Operations

 Up to 132,000 volts = 3m
 Between 132,000 and 330,000 volts = 6m
 Above 330,000 volts = 8m
Rigging Operations
 Up to 132,000 volts = 3m
 Between 132,000 and 220,000 volts = 4.5m
 Between 220,000 and 275,000 volts = 5m
 Above 275,000 volts = 6m
 Above 330,000 volts = 8m

 You can find out the voltage of power lines by contacting the local power authority.
 If you are required to work closer than the minimum safe distance you must:
➢ Seek an exemption from the local power authority
➢ Contact the local power supply company and ask them shut off or isolate the power supply
➢ Use a qualified and competent spotter
 Tiger tails are used as a visual aid, they indicate the presence of powerlines above, however, they DO NOT
insulate the powerlines what so ever.
Tiger tails DO NOT:
➢ insulate wires
➢ protect people from the risk of electrocution or electric shock
➢ reduce safe approach distances
➢ allow you to work closer to powerlines
 Other types of indicators include:
➢ Marker balls
➢ Marker of different colours
➢ Warning/danger signs
➢ Flagging
➢ Painting the lower section of the tele pole
 Whenever conducting dogging operations near powerlines, ensure powerlines are made of non-conductive
16mm dry natural fibre rope.
For further information regarding working near powerlines refer to the Electrical Codes of Practice and the
Electrical Acts relevant to your state.

When working near overhead powerlines you will need to read and comply with WorkCover Code of Practice –
Work near Overhead and Underground Electric Lines and maintain the minimum safe approach distances
defined in the code for QLD
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1.3.4 Risk Assessment

A risk assessment involves completing a Risk Analysis and Risk Evaluation. By assessing the likelihood and
consequence of the risk, you can understand the situation and respond appropriately.

1.3.4.1 Risk analysis

When planning controls for hazards you will need to look at 3 factors to determine the severity of the risk so the
controls implemented will be sufficient to conduct the task safely. These 3 factors are:

Consequence Severity of harm or damage caused by the hazard

Likelihood How likely would the hazard or risk happen
Risk level The combined result of likelihood and consequence

You can use a Table such as the one below to work out the level of controls needed.
E Extreme risk– causing death
H High risk – causing serious injury
M Moderate risk – causing minor medical treatment
L Low risk – manage by routine procedure
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1.3.4.2 Risk evaluation

Risk evaluation is based upon outcomes and results of the risk analysis. Risk evaluation involves making decisions
about which risks should be treated first.
Below is a table you can use to evaluate when you should remove or control the hazard to achieve acceptable risk.
Risk Level Action

Extreme Act immediately:

The proposed task or activity must not proceed. Steps must be taken to lower the risk level
to as low as reasonably practicable using the hierarchy of risk controls.
High Act today:
The proposed activity can only proceed, provided that:
1. The risk level has been reduced to as low as reasonably practicable using the
hierarchy or risk controls.
2. The risk controls must include those identified in legislation, Australian Standards,
Codes of Practice, etc.
3. The risk assessment has been reviewed and approved by the supervisor.
4. A Safe Working Procedure or Safe Work Method has been prepared.
5. The supervisor must review and document the effectiveness of the implemented
risk controls.
Medium Act this week:
The proposed task or process can proceed, provided that:
1. The risk level hierarchy of risk controls
2. The risk assessment has been reviewed and approved by the supervisor
3. A Safe Working Procedure or Safe Work Method has been prepared
Low Act this month:
Managed by local documented routine procedures, which must include application of the
hierarchy of controls.

1.3.5 Risk Treatment

Once risk have been identified, analysed and evaluated, risk treatment options need to be considered. It involves
selecting one or more options to modify a risk and then implementing the selected option. Record the risk
treatments in the risk treatment plan. Once the option has been implanted, it is referred to as a risk control.

 1.3.5.1 Risk control strategy options, “Hierarchy of control”

The hierarchy of control is a range of 6 control methods used to eliminate or control hazards or risks in the
workplace. These 6 levels are: (located down the left hand side is a helpful acronym to help you remember)
Every E Elimination
Sunday S Substitution
I I Isolation
Eat E Engineering controls
Apple A Administrative controls
Pie P Personal Protective Equipment
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 Elimination Remove the hazard completely. Best type of hazard control

 Substitution
 Isolation
 Engineering Controls
 Administrative Controls
 Personal Protective Equipment
Swap the dangerous work method for a less dangerous
Isolate or restrict access to the hazard
Use equipment or engineering controls to lower the risk level
Site rules and policies to attempt to control the hazard
The least effective control. The use of PPE during work. Select this in the planning
phase of work.

 All control strategies must be implemented before starting the task or as soon as the hazard is identified.
 Remove and hazard control measures and excess materials when they are no longer needed to maintain
good housekeeping.

1.3.5.2 Personal Protective Equipment

PPE Includes:
 Safety helmet
 Safety gloves
 Safety boots
 Safety glasses
 High visibility clothing
 As per site requirements

 Safety gear will be selected in the planning stage and must be inspected before each use.
 If you identify faulty any equipment, ensure you initiate “tag out” procedures. These steps are:
➢ Tagout the faulty equipment with an “Out of Service” danger tag by writing the details onto the tag and
placing the tag onto the equipment.
➢ Remove the faulty equipment from service or isolate the machinery immediately after “tagging it out”.
➢ Report this to your supervisor so he can take the steps to have the equipment replaced.

It is the employer’s/PCBU’s responsibility to provide the necessary PPE. It is then the workers responsibility the
wear those items properly and when
necessary.
You may see numerous safety signs
indicating what must be worn in
certain areas on site. These must
always be adhered to.
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1.3.5.3 Specific control strategies for traffic

If you are required to set up near or on a street or work area which is shared with pedestrians, other workers,
vehicles or mobile plant, you must select appropriate control measures. These may include:
 Traffic control (traffic management plan)
 Permits
• The use of flashing warning lights
• Set up barricades and signage
• Set up pedestrian exclusion zones
• Set up vehicle exclusion zones
• The use of hoardings, gantry’s or scaffolding

1.3.5.4 Specific control strategies for operating at night or in darkened areas

 When working in dark areas or at night, sufficient artificial lighting should be provided.

1.3.5.5 Setting up near trenches

When cranes are set up close to excavations or trenches, there may be an increased risk of the sides of the
excavation or trench wall collapsing, causing the crane to overturn. This risk increases with softer ground, and
the presence of groundwater. Additionally, the risk of collapse is greater for vertical cuts in the excavation wall in
comparison to walls that have been battered back at an angle. The presence of ‘slippery back’, where there is a
naturally occurring slip plain such as a fracture in the ground, can also increase the risk of excavation or trench
collapse.
Generally, the following principles should be applied when setting up mobile cranes near excavations:
 Where the ground is compact and non-friable (i.e. not crumbling), the distance of any part of the crane
support timbers from the excavation should be at least equal to the depth of the excavation (1H:1V rule). For
example, for a three metre deep trench in compact ground, the outrigger timbers or pads should be a
horizontal distance of at least three metres away from the closest edge of the trench wall.
 Where the ground is loose or backfilled (i.e. crumbling), the distance of any part of the crane support
timbers from the excavation should be at least twice the depth of the excavation (2H:1V rule). Implementing
the control strategy
Reference: Mobile Crane – Code of Practice 2006
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1.3.5.6 Check Ground Stability

Before setting up plant and equipment, you need to check the ground conditions will support the weight of
the equipment and load. If rigging tasks are conducted on unsuitable ground, it may cause the plant, equipment
or structures to become unstable and tip over.
➢ Backfilled trenches may not be compacted completely and present danger when setting up close to
them.
➢ Packing under the outriggers will be required to help safely support outriggers.
➢ Always check load bearing limits of concrete floors, roof tops and landing.
➢ Establish ground suitability before commencing work. An engineer will be able to establish the ground
suitability.

Different ground and soil types have different load bearing pressures depending on how firm or dense they
are.

1.3.6 Monitoring and reviewing the risk management process

Regular monitoring and review are important in risk management and should be planned for at every stage. It
involves constant surveillance and checking and responsibilities concerning it should be clearly defined.
Discuss it with appropriate personnel/workers and must be included in the management process of the
organisation.
Monitoring and review should:

• Be used to detect and changes to risk which may require revision of treatments or the emergence of
new risks
• Ensure that treatments and controls maintain effectiveness and are efficient
• Aim to improve risk treatment through obtaining further information
• Be used to analyse events and changes that have occurred through the implementation of the process
and any lessons that may be learned from this
Record all review results and report as per organisations policies and procedures.
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1.3.6.1 Reporting and record keeping

Any action you have taken must be recorded and reported to your supervisor. Different types of report and
record keeping may include:
➢ Risk assessment reports ➢ Safe Work Method Statements
➢ Incident reports ➢ Take five
➢ Job Safety Analysis
Record keeping is important as they can help ensure that any risk management activities are traceable and
provide a basis for improving methods and tools in the risk management process and helps to improve the
overall process.

1.4 Identify Equipment Requirements

Once you have worked out what you need for completion of the task, you can select the right equipment for
the job.
Riggers may work with different types of plant and equipment to complete their task. These may include:

• Plant & associated equipment:

➢ Scaffolds
➢ Elevating Work Platforms
➢ Cranes
➢ Workbox, Personnel box
➢ Cantilevered Crane Loading Platforms
➢ Hoists and mast climbing equipment
➢ Safety screens and shutters
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Tools and lifting

• FSWR • Beam clamps
• Synthetic webbing slings • Tirfors
• Chains • Turnbuckles
• Fibre ropes • Rigging screws
• Shackles • Wedges
• Eyebolts • Spanners
• Lifting clutches • Podgers
• Spreader bars • Braces
• Lifting beams • Rollers
• Chain blocks • Bolts

1.4.1 Safety Equipment

Depending on job requirements, you may need to use other types of safety equipment to reduce risk to an
acceptable level.
Safety equipment may include:
➢ Safety harnesses
➢ Lanyards
➢ Energy absorbers
➢ Inertia reels
➢ Static lines
➢ Safety nets
 All safety equipment should be selected in the planning stage and inspected before and after use.
 Harness and associated equipment must be inspected in accordance with AS1891.
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1.4.1.1 Fit safety equipment

All safety equipment must be fitted correctly to avoid injury before commencing work. Make sure it is appropriate
for the task.
Safety systems and plant that require the use of a full body harness are:

• EWP
• Work Box
• Static Lines

1.4.2 Safety Harness

In most cases, when working at heights, a full body harness must be worn. A harness must be fitted correctly and
in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications to
ensure effectiveness.
The rule of thumb when fitting your harness is a flat hand
and not a fist must be able to fit underneath the straps.
Attach you fall arrest line to the anchor point on your
harness, located on the front or back of the harness.
Safety harnesses must comply with the requirements of
AS/NZS 1891 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices.

1.4.2.1 Inspect fall arrest harness

You must inspect you harness before each use. Defects which will condemn a harness are:

• Cuts, tears, abrasion, excessive stretching in the webbing

• Contact with heat, corrosives or chemicals
• Mildew, rotting, sun rot
• Deformed or wear in the snap hooks
• Open rollers
• Excessive dirt, grease and grime
• Distorted, cracked or excessive wear in the buckles
• Fraying, worn, unravelling of stitching

1.4.3 Lanyards and Energy Absorbers

There should be minimal slack in the fall arrest lanyard between you and the anchor point which should be a high
over your head as equipment permits.
The length of the lanyard should restrict the fall distance to a maximum of 2, before the fall arrest system takes
effect.
Avoid work above anchor points as this will increase fall distance and increase the likelihood of getting snagged.
Energy absorbers reduce the severity of impact and should be used as part of the lanyard.
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1.4.4 Inertia Reels

An inertia reel is a mechanical device that arrests a fall by self-locking. It is a self-retracting lanyard
that allows freedom of movement. When using inertia reels, keep in mind that it may not be
effective in certain situations. For example, if a worker falls down an inclined surface of a steep
pitched roof, the inertia line may keep reeling out and may not lock on.
It may not be used as a working support by locking the system and to support the worker. They
are not designed for continuous support.
When set up correctly, inertia reels are designed to place you in limited free fall. Provided the unit
is set up directly overhead, free fall should be limited to no more than 6m.
Lanyards should not be used with an inertia reel as this may result in an excessive amount of free
fall prior to fall arrest.
Inertia reels must comply with AS 1891.3 Fall arrest devices.
1.4.4.1 Inspect inertia reel

Defects that condemn an inertia reel are:

• Cuts, abrasions, fraying, stretched wire rope

• Contact with chemical, corrosives or solvents
• Excess dirt, grease and grime
• Lanyard does not move freely
• Wear
• Exposure to high temperatures

1.4.5 Static Lines

A static line is a horizontal line which may be made from FSWR or flat webbing sling. You attach to the line using
a lanyard. The static line is designed to arrest a fall. The line provides a suitable anchorage to attaching to and
allows the worker to travel along a straight line relatively free.
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1.4.5.1 Inspect static line components

The parts of a static line must be checked prior to installation and use. Defects that condemn static line and
components are:
FSWR:
• Kinks
• Cuts, bent, crushed
• Wear and abrasion
• Broken wires
• Core collapse
• High stranding
• Corrosion
• Damage to the eye, ferrule or thimble
• More than 10% wear
• Bird caging
• Exposure to high temperatures
Anchors and connectors:
• Wear or damage
• Excessive movement
• No capacity marking

1.4.6 Safety Nets

Industrial safety nets are sometimes used as a means of fall protection for
people who are working at heights where scaffolding or guard railing cannot
be installed.
If used with a net of finer mesh size, it can be used to catch falling debris.
Safety nets can be installed where there may be a risk of falling tools,
equipment or materials from height.

1.4.6.1 Inspect safety nets

Defects that condemn a safety net are:

• Damage to fibres
• Stretching
• Frayed fibres
• Sun rot
 Page 26 of 30

Actions that cause a safety net to be defective are:

• Dragging the net over sharp edges

• Throwing tools and materials onto the net
• Jumping into the net
• Contact with hot works, flames, sparks or gases
• Contact with chemicals
• Damage to the supporting framework

1.4.7 Tag Out & Reporting Procedures

You must check your PPE, communications, plant and other equipment
prior to use.
If you identify faulty any equipment, it is important that you take the
correct steps for isolating the equipment, so it does not get used again.
These steps are as follows:
 Tagout the faulty equipment with an “Out of Service” danger tag by
writing the details onto the tag and placing the tag onto the
equipment.
 Remove the faulty equipment from service or isolate the machinery immediately after “tagging it out”.
 For any plant, the defect/fault but be recorded into the machinery logbook.
 Report this to your supervisor so he can take the steps to have the equipment replaced or plant fixed.

Faulty equipment may need to be destroyed or returned to the manufacturer for repair.

1.5 Select & Inspect Plant & Equipment

Depending on the rigging task, a rigger may be tasked to use various types of plant and equipment including:

• Sheaves and drums (used with cranes and hoists)

• Purchases and tackles (pulley systems used to gain a mechanical advantage)
• Access equipment (the use of elevating work platforms, work baskets and mast climbers)
• Load shifting equipment (crane and materials hoists)

1.5.1 Types of Access Equipment

Access equipment can be used to safely access a work area when working at heights. Often, the equipment
requires the use of a safety system such as work positioning or fall arrest systems.
Types of work platforms include:

• Scaffolding
• Elevating Work Platforms
Swing stage
• Mast Climbers
• Work Boxes
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1.5.2 Working Platforms/Scaffolds

Scaffold must be erected by a competent person such as a Basic Scaffolder or above depending on the type
of scaffold needing to be built.
Hung scaffolds, aka: swing stage, must be erected by an Advanced Scaffolder.
When using a work platform, it must be fixed to a structure for stability and installed with edge protection if an
object or person can fall more than 2 metres. It should be fitted so that it can be accessed and exited safely.
The surface of work platforms must be non-slip and large and strong enough to support all tools, materials
and work personnel. Access platform must not have a slope of more than 20° and working platforms must not
have a slope of more than 7°.

1.5.3 Elevating Work Platforms (EWP)

EWPS’s are available in various types and sizes. To operate an EWP, must hold to correct qualification. A
licence is required for the operation of a Boom Type EWP where the boom length is 11m or more. It is
important to familiarise yourself with controls before beginning your task.
When using an EWP you must:

• Wear a safety Harness and attach to the anchor point in the EWP via a lanyard that is attached to your
harness
• Be trained and qualified to operate that type of EWP
• A pre-start has been performed before using the EWP to ensure it is in safe working order
• The use of the EWP must comply with the Australian Standards AS2550.10 Cranes – Safe Use –
Elevating Work Platform

1.5.4 Mast Climbers

Mast climbers are made up of a work platform that can be raised and lowered along one or more masts using
a hoist mechanism. They can be secured to a building to ensure stability is maintained. They are not suitable
for use where there are different elevations. For example: where the
upper floors step back or where there is a balcony extended from the
building.
Erection and dismantling must be carried out by a Basic Rigger or directly
supervised by a person holding the appropriate High Risk Work Licence
or scaffolding licence.
More information can be provided in AS 2550.16 Crane – Safe use –
Mast Climbing Work Platforms.
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1.5.5 Workboxes
Work boxes are used to lift workers using a crane. Workboxes are used for very high work or when you
need to access an isolated part of the project where using and EWP or scaffold is impractical or too difficult.
Workboxes must be specifically designed for the purpose of lifting people and must be registered with a
state or territory regulatory authority and meet necessary requirements of the workplace,
crane manufacturer and AS 2550 and AS 1418.17.
The workbox is secured to the crane and the workers are secured via a harness and lanyard
to the anchor points inside the workbox. Workbox’s used to suspend work must have the
shackles moused to prevent them from coming undone.
To workbox must be stamped or have a data plate permanently attached which shows the
following information:

• The maximum hoisted load (kilograms)

• The SWL (kilograms)
• The tare weight (kilograms)

1.5.6 Inspection of Associated Plant & Equipment

All rigging and associated equipment must be inspected before use. Rigging equipment such as scaffolds,
must be inspected by a competent and authorised person before it is used.
Plant and equipment such as EWP, mast climbers or cranes, should be inspected daily before use to ensure
it is in a safe working order.
Rigging equipment such as workboxes, cantilevered crane loading platform and safety screens and shutters
must be inspected before work is carried out.

1.6 Identify communication methods

When working with a crane, you could use the following communications:
Hand Signals Used when in direct line of sight
Whistle Signals Used within earshot, direct or indirect sight, usually only one crane working
Trunked Radio Used when out of sight- other radios in area and machine operations in area
Verbal Used within ear shot distance.

Ways to communicate to other personnel/workers

 Signage
 Written instruction
 Verbal
 Hand signals
 Listening
 Toolbox talk
 Questions & answers
Select communication method before starting the task and remember to always test communication methods
before commencing the work. It is not permissible to use a mobile phone to talk to the crane operator while
conducting rigging operations.
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1.6.1 Conventional Radio

A conventional radio is a basic radio communications system. Interference can occur as it
uses open channels. Other users in the area can cut in over your channel. This can be
hazardous when directing a crane.

1.6.2 Trunked Radio

A trunked radio is a computer controlled two-way system that locks radio users out of your
selected frequency. You can have several separate groups on one site communicating with each
other without any interference. This is the preferred means of communications when on large
sites and working with cranes.

1.7 Set up for Task

Planning and preparation is crucial to conducting work safely and on time. Make sure everything is set up
correctly, so you can conduct rigging activities safely and efficiently.
This may include:
• Assessing hazards and applying control risk measures
• Checking the ground suitability
• Reviewing site information
• Correct work positioning of plant and equipment

When setting up or erecting a structure near or over pedestrian walkways, appropriate control measures must
be established such as:

• Warning signs
• Flashing hazard lights
• Barriers
• Overhead protection
• Exclusion zones
• Traffic control

Hazard may be caused by the work being performed. It is important to maintain tidy housekeeping and remove
tools, equipment, debris and materials as they are no longer needed.

1.7.1 Pack up
At the end of the day, you should:

• Pack up as per site requirements

• Return tools and equipment back to stores cleaned and in a safe working condition
• Remove and return hazard control measures that are no longer needed and store appropriately
• If packing up plant and equipment, make sure it is parked in the allocated area and packed up as
per manufacturer’s specifications
• Tag, remove and report any faulty equipment
• Complete necessary paperwork in relation to the task
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1.8 Emergency Protocols

If there is an emergency, remember to stay calm:
• Alert other personnel in the area of the danger
• Contact your supervisor, safety advisor or the emergency crew/000 as per your site requirements
• Stand by for instructions

When contacting emergency services, you need communicate the following over the phone:
• Provide directions of where the emergency is located.
• State the nature of the emergency
• State how many people have been involved in the incident

If there is an incident, stay calm:

• Stop what you are doing
• Make safe
• Assess and rectify the situation
• Continue work only if safe to do so
• Report the incident to your supervisor
• Fill out an incident report form in a timely manner