Protecting workers from safety hazards is the number one priority of business owners and site supervisors. Advancements in personal protection equipment (PPE) has made this process much more simple than it used to be, leaving no room for unsafe working at heights projects. Before you set off for your next worksite, consider whether you have checked all the safety boxes.
Have Risk Assessments Been Completed?
This is standard practice for most worksites. As existing hazards are different for each new site, an assessment should be completed before workers even set foot on the site. Completing a risk assessment allows site supervisors to identify any potential safety issues, as well as providing ample opportunity to work out the measures needed to avoid an accident or injury.
Are Staff Aware of the Requirements?
As the type of work and the complexity of the project may vary from job site to job site, you should always outline the safety requirements with the team before beginning. Being safe while working at heights requires constant monitoring and thoroughness for those in the air, as well as on the ground. It might seem logical, but reinforcing safety requirements and best practices among your staff may prevent an accident.
Have the Most Suitable Types of PPE Been Identified for the Task?
The safety equipment needs of different height projects will vary, with some sites requiring more protection equipment than others. Abseiling tasks demand the best-performing hardware, ropes and gloves, while roofing work relies on the use of temporary anchor points and correctly-fitted harnesses. Consulting with safety equipment experts such as Safe At Heights can give you insight into the wide range of products specially designed for working at heights.
Have you Carried out Training for Specialist PPE?
In the confusion and panic of an emergency, incorrectly using equipment can happen. The task of putting on a respirator mask may become difficult. If you and your staff have undertaken training, the knowledge of correctly fitting a respirator can make a huge difference. If your worksite requires respirators as part of the essential kit, be sure to carry out facial fit tests as well. For sites where abseiling is common, fall arrestors and fall rescue equipment training should be completed regularly.
Have you Completed Maintenance Checks on Equipment?
Just as you service your machinery on a regular basis in order to guarantee performance, be sure to check and maintain your PPE. Make time at the end or beginning of the day for thoroughly checking over the safety equipment you use. That way, any damage will be spotted before it puts someone at risk.
A responsible site supervisor knows the benefit of using quality PPE. Making it a priority to kit the site, as well as staff, with the right gear can mean the difference between an accident or getting everyone home safely. In an industry where working at heights is a daily activity, and the possibility of a fall is so easily reduced by thorough safety precautions, investing in the right gear is vital.
Do you perform your own checklist before beginning work for the day? What items are on your checklist?
