In most industries, working at heights is defined as doing any work at an elevation of 4 feet or more above the lower level.
It’s a hazard that needs to be taken seriously, even if you don’t feel like you’re working all that high. Falls can be fatal at any elevation. And the ones that don’t kill you could still leave you seriously injured.
Being safe at heights is surprisingly complex and challenging. It involves multiple calculations done by safety professionals. It might include installations that have to be verified by certified engineers. And there’s a lot of science behind the seemingly simple safety harnesses that you strap into before going up.
But for the workers, it’s a lot more straightforward. It’s simply a matter of following the procedures, respecting the fall protection measures, and being aware of the risks.
Here are a few fall safety basics that are worth reviewing before going up.
Climb Up Safely
Ladders seem intuitive, but there’s a right and a wrong way to use them. Here’s a rundown of safe ladder use:
- Inspect the ladder before use (look for damage, loose rungs, and anything bent or broken)
- Make sure the ladder is on a stable surface (it should be flat and solid – loose gravel or snow won’t do)
- Don’t prop up the ladder (if the ladder can’t go high enough unless it’s on boxes or pallets, you need a longer ladder)
- Keep three points of contact when going up or down the ladder (only one foot or hand should be off the ladder at any given time)
- Unless it is specifically designed for it, only one person should be on the ladder
Don’t Cross the Line
Never cross any of the barriers that have been set up to keep you safe. These have been installed at a specific specific point precisely to keep everyone from getting too close to open edges and other fall hazards.
Don’t climb over guardrails or try to get around them. If there’s a warning line system, don’t duck under it.
Always listen to the designated safety monitor. They’re responsible for ensuring that everyone stays safe while working at heights. If they tell you to move to another area, follow their instructions.
Wear the Gear
Even a short fall can be deadly. And the higher you go, the higher the risks.
That’s why it’s important to wear the safety gear you’ve been provided. Take the time to don it properly even if you’re only near fall hazards for a brief stint or feel confident. Confidence can’t keep you from falling, but your safety harness can.
So, put on the harness and attach to the lifeline or designated anchor point.
If you’ve been given a travel restraint system, use it. Simply telling yourself you won’t go near the edge isn’t enough.
And yes, you still need to gear up even if there’s a safety net. That net is your last line of defense, it shouldn’t be treated like the first.
Don’t stand on buckets, boxes, or any makeshift surfaces to get more reach.
That’s a bad idea at ground level. It’s even worse at an elevation.
If you struggle to reach, you’ll need a compliant solution that can be installed and used safely, like a ladder or a scaffold. Instead of trying to DIY something, bring up the issue to your supervisor. They’ll be able to find a safe way for you to do it.