The leading cause of workplace deaths.
WHY IT DOMINATES FATALITIES
Falls kill, from heights that seem modest.
WHAT TO ASK FIRST
Whether the work can be done without working at height.
WHAT EXAMPLES SHOW
Assembling at ground level and lifting into place Using extending tools from the ground Designing out the need for access
WHAT TO DO IF HEIGHT IS UNAVOIDABLE
Use equipment that prevents a fall.
WHAT PREVENTS FALLS
Scaffolding with edge protection Working platforms with guardrails Tower scaffolds, properly erected
WHAT MERELY LIMITS THE CONSEQUENCES
Harnesses and arrest systems.
WHY PREVENTION IS PREFERRED
Arrest systems require correct anchorage, correct use, and rescue arrangements.
WHAT LADDERS ARE FOR
Access, and short-duration light work.
WHAT THEY ARE NOT FOR
Extended work, work requiring both hands, or work requiring reach.
WHAT LADDER USE REQUIRES
Firm level base Correct angle Secured top and bottom Three points of contact Not overreaching
WHY OVERREACHING MATTERS
It is how most ladder falls occur.
WHAT SCAFFOLDING REQUIRES
Erection by competent people A firm base Full boarding and edge protection Inspection before use and periodically Not being altered by others
WHY ALTERATION MATTERS
Scaffolds modified by untrained people collapse.
WHAT TO CONTROL
Objects falling from height.
HOW
Toe boards, nets, exclusion zones below.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
That nobody works at height alone.
