The hierarchy of control measures for managing the risks associated with working at height, as outlined in the Work at Height Regulations, prioritizes safety measures in a descending order of effectiveness. Here’s a summary:
- Avoidance: Whenever possible, avoid working at height. This can involve finding alternative methods, like using extension poles for window cleaning instead of ladders.
- Safe Work Platforms: If working at height is necessary, utilize safe platforms or locations. Examples include balconies, parapets, or working platforms equipped with guardrails and toe-boards.
- Collective Work Equipment: Implement collective safety measures to prevent falls. This can include collective protection units or external guardrails. Additionally, workers should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent falls, such as harnesses with short lanyards that restrict access to fall-prone areas.
- Collective Equipment for Fall Mitigation: Use collective protective equipment to reduce both the height and impact of a fall, should one occur. This might involve using safety netting beneath and around the work area.
- PPE for Fall Reduction: If all other measures fail, workers should wear PPE, such as fall arrest harnesses, to minimize the distance and impact of a fall.
- Training and Instruction: Provide all employees with the necessary training, instruction, and information required to carry out their duties safely, including guidance on the proper use of work at height equipment.
By following this hierarchy, organizations can prioritize the most effective control measures and ensure the safety of workers when tasks require them to work at heights.
