WORKING AT HEIGHTS
The need for rescue-ready equipment is also gaining prominence. “If a fall occurs, the ability to recover a worker quickly is essential,” says Randall. “Equipment that facilitates controlled descent or retrieval can make a significant difference in an emergency.” A roadmap for compliance In response to these developments, the IWH has outlined a series of practical recommendations for industry stakeholders. “First and foremost, every project must have a competent person responsible for the fall protection plan,” says Mostert. “This is non-negotiable.” Procurement processes must also be updated to reflect new requirements. “Companies should only engage with suppliers who can demonstrate compliance with relevant standards and training accreditation,” Randall advises. “If a supplier cannot verify this, they should not be considered.” Training remains a top priority. “Within the next 12 months, companies should ensure that all employees are trained or reassessed through accredited providers,” says Mostert. “This includes aligning with QCTO requirements and engaging with IWH-recognised professional development partners.” Regular audits and inspections are equally critical. “We recommend monthly audits of risk assessments and daily pre-use checks of equipment,” Kriel explains. “Formal inspections should be conducted at least monthly, with proper documentation.” Finally, rescue preparedness must be addressed. “Conducting rescue drills every six months ensures that teams are ready to respond effectively,” says Randall. “This is not just about compliance, it is about saving lives.” From Compliance to Proactive Safety As the regulatory environment continues to evolve, the message from the IWH is clear: compliance is no longer sufficient on its own. The focus must shift towards competence, accountability, and proactive risk management. “The bar has been raised,” concludes Randall. “Companies that take a proactive approach will not only meet regulatory requirements but also create safer, more efficient working environments.” For an industry where the margin for error is minimal, these changes represent both a challenge and an opportunity. By embracing higher standards in training, equipment, and operational practices, South Africa’s work-at-height sector can move closer to its ultimate goal: zero harm. b
We strongly advise companies to verify that their training partners are either QCTO accredited or recognised by the IWH as Professional Development Providers.
platforms (MEWPs), must now be accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), with a licensing body to be established by May 2027. “This is a major change for the industry,” says Randall. “Historically, training was largely governed by TETA. Now, there is a clear transition towards QCTO-accredited programmes, and companies need to prepare for that shift well in advance.” Importantly, this transition comes with firm deadlines. By mid-2027, all lifting- machine training must be conducted through QCTO-accredited providers. “We strongly advise companies to verify that their training partners are either QCTO- accredited or recognised by the IWH as Professional Development Providers,” adds Mostert. “This is not something that can be left to the last minute.” Bridging the training gap Complicating the transition is the phasing out of several South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) unit standards related to work at height, which have been extended only until June 2026. “In the absence of fully developed QCTO skills programmes for all work-at- height disciplines, the IWH has taken the initiative to develop regulatory professional development programmes,” explains Mostert. “These will be available from 1 July 2026 and will provide a structured pathway for continuing professional development.” The emphasis on continuous learning is central to the IWH’s approach. “Training is not a once-off event,” says Randall. “We are advocating for a system where workers are registered, assessed, and re-licensed periodically. This ensures that competence is maintained and aligned with evolving standards.” Common compliance gaps Despite clear regulatory requirements, the IWH continues to observe recurring compliance gaps across the industry. “Risk assessments are one of the most common shortcomings,” notes Kriel. “Companies often have generic
assessments or fail to update them for specific tasks, which is a direct violation of Construction Regulation 9.” Training documentation is another area of concern. “It is not uncommon to find workers on site without proper records of training,” says Mostert. “Yet the regulations explicitly require that all workers be trained by a competent person and that this training be documented.” Equipment inspection is also frequently neglected. Fall-arrest systems, including harnesses and lanyards, are sometimes used without proper inspection logs or maintenance records. “Construction Regulation 10 is very clear on this,” Kriel emphasises. “Equipment must be inspected and tested regularly. There is no room for compromise.” Perhaps most concerning is the lack of rescue planning. “Many sites still do not have a written rescue plan,” says Randall. “This is alarming, because the regulations explicitly require not only a plan but also the capability to execute it.” Equipment designed for safety As regulatory expectations rise, so too does the importance of equipment selection and design. “The regulations are increasingly pushing for built-in safety features,” explains Kriel. “The focus is on prevention rather than reaction.” This shift is evident in the recommendations for scaffolding and access equipment. The SANS 10085-1:2024 standard, for example, introduces stricter requirements for guardrails, load capacities, and platform design. “We should be selecting scaffolds with non-removable guardrails and compliant configurations as a baseline,” says Mostert. “Similarly, MEWPs should incorporate features such as self-levelling platforms and integrated fall protection systems.” Anchorage systems are another critical consideration. “Installing certified anchor points or permanent lifeline systems enables workers to tie off quickly and safely,” Kriel notes. “This aligns directly with the regulatory emphasis on fall prevention.”
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS APRIL 2026 14
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