25% of work related fatal injuries, and 6% of non-fatal injuries in 2016 were as a result of falls from height. The importance of maintaining safe access is becoming paramount. Most major injuries such as, broken arms or legs can result in weeks off work, leaving a void in the workplace and potentially delaying site operations while rapidly increasing the working days lost.
SafeSmart Look at the Dos and Don’ts of Working at Height
DO:
- Ensure safe access to and from where the workers are at height.
- When working on or near dangerous surfaces – take the necessary precautions.
- Complete as much work as possible from the ground.
- Ensure the appropriate tools and equipment are used for the job and that they have the necessary maintenance checks.
- Provide the needed shield from potential falling objects.
- Carry out the necessary evacuation plans in case of an emergency.
DON’T:
- Overreach the max stability limit of a platform or step ladder.
- Let workers carry out a task without the necessary risk assessment being completed.
- Use a weak surface to support the ladder or platform, i.e. plastic or glass.
- Overload platforms or ladders – consider what tools and materials the workers need before working at height.
- Use ladders for long durational, demanding tasks. If the task is longer than 30-minutes, a stronger rigid platform is recommended.
- Give permission for any worker who is incompetent and unskilled to work at height.
- Let workers carry out a task without the necessary risk assessment being completed.
“Don’t Take Risks When Working at Height…
…Why risk a life of a worker or £1000’s in claims because the correct equipment for the job wasn’t supplied.”
From a humble portable work platform, to full-scale customised maintenance access and scaffolding, SafeSmart Access is the UK’s foremost choice. Get in touch with us today
