RISK ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES
FALL PROTECTION INTRODUCTION
Risk assessments should be conducted prior to any Work at Height or Confined Space Work being carried out to identify hazards that exist and the risks they pose.
AS/NZS1891.4:2009 contains a Hierarchy of Control which provides an ideal platform for development of risk assessments. Below find sample Risk Assessment Procedure for working at height.
Hazard
Assess
Action
Elimination
No Risk
Falling from a height
Fall Restraint Technique
Substitution
Limited Risk
Isolation
Fall Arrest
Slipping or tripping on a roof surface
Safe Work Systems
Fall Protection
Consequences of a fall
Recovery Systems
Reference to local authorities is also recommended. This table is a sample only as many other hazard factors can come into account. Other hazards may include, but are not limited to: Nature of the work, surface materials, fragile roofing material, personal training levels, competency, weather conditions, surface conditions, etc. Reference should be made to AS/NZS1891.4:2009 for the Correct Use, Selection and Maintenance criteria for Height Safety Systems.
It is recommended that wherever possible a “Restraint technique” system is used. This is a system where a person using fall arrest rated equipment, is prevented from reaching a position from where a fall is possible.
Relevant Australian/New Zealand Standards are listed below are recommended for further reading:- AS/NZS1891.1:2007 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices – Harnesses and Ancillary equipment. This is a manufacturing standard which specifies requirements for materials, design, manufacturing and testing of harnesses, lanyards, pole straps and associated equipment. Testing utilises 100kg mass – users of greater mass should consult manufacturer. AS/NZS1891.2:2001 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices – Horizontal lifeline and rail systems. AS/NZS1891.3:1997 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices – Fall arrest devices. AS/NZS1891.4:2009 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices – Selection, use and maintenance. This is a user orientated document outlining selection criteria, safe use, inspection and maintenance requirements of products and systems used in fall protection.
This standard is to be used as a guide to form safe work procedures but is not all inclusive.
B-SAFE CATALOGUE
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