The Hierarchy of control must be applied when planning work at height activities.

Work at height Hierarchy

Working at height risks need to be identified and controlled as early as possible in the project planning phase.  Applying safety in design principles and ensuring full implementation of our SQE Risk Management process will seek to eliminate the risk of work at height.

Perimeter Screens

• The perimeter of structures, edges and working platforms must be protected by screens, guard rails and / or scaffolding systems to prevent persons or materials falling
• Screens should be installed, jumped and dismantled by competent persons who are trained in the specific type of screen system and in accordance with the manufacturers instructions
• Screens are not to be jumped until the lowest floor has suitable edge protection installed. Screens should extend a minimum of 2m above the highest working floor
• Perimeter screens should be designed to ensure all gaps are fully closed between the screen and the respective floors

Scaffolds

• Scaffolds above 4m must be erected, dismantled or altered by a scaffolder with a high risk work license who has been verified as competent in accordance with the John Holland VOC procedure
• Scaffold is considered Temporary Works and must therefore, be installed in accordance with the John Holland Temporary Works Procedure and Temporary Works GMR (GMR 7)
• All working platforms must be at least 450mm wide

Scaffolds must be inspected by a qualified scaffolder and tagged:

• Prior to use
• At intervals not exceeding 30 days
• After significant weather events
• After any structural alteration

Scaffolds that are incomplete must be clearly barricaded and signed to prevent unauthorised access

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPS)

Types of MEWPs

• Boom type MEWPs
• Scissor Lifts
• Vertical Lifts
• Vehicle mounted static boom

Ensure the MEWP is most suitable for the task and environment.

Risks associated with MEWPs include (but are not limited to):

• Working in and around complex / overhead structures
• Overturning
• Dropped objects
• Maneuvering scissor lifts through doorways
• Weather conditions
• Unqualified operators
• Falls from heights
• Working near overhead power lines
• Poor ground conditions

Ladders

Straight and extension ladders must only be used as a means of access and/or egress.

Platform ladders with a platform height under 2M must only be used to perform inspections or carry out light duties. Platform ladders with a platform height of 2M or more must only be used if a risk assessment has determined a scaffold or MEWP is not reasonably practical.

Any ladder used on site must be industrial grade and compliant with AS/NZS 1892 Portable Ladder.

Guard (hand) rails

All guard rails must incorporate a top rail (between 900-1100mm above the working surface), mid rail and a toe board.

Fall prevention devices

A harness can only be used as a primary control if approved by the BU Operations Manager and a more effective control is not reasonably practical.

For more information on using a harness, see the guidance for GMR 5.C.