Working from Heights Part Two: Best Practices for Working Safely at Heights – Equipment, Training, and Risk Mitigation

In our previous post, Working from Heights Part One: Understanding the Risks and Legal Requirements for Working at Heights in Australia, we outlined the risks and legal obligations of working at heights in Australia. Employers are legally required to conduct risk assessments, implement fall prevention measures, provide proper training, and ensure compliance to protect workers and avoid penalties.

In as far as is reasonably practicable, employers must eliminate or minimise risks associated with working at height, and so this post aims to guide employers on some best practices and risk mitigation measures.

Implementing the Hierarchy of Controls for Height Safety

A hierarchy of controls is the preferred method for managing risks associated with working at heights. This systematic approach prioritises eliminating hazards before relying on personal protective equipment (PPE).

Elimination: Can the task be performed at ground level instead? For any task that requires someone to work at a height of 2m or above, the job must be properly assessed to determine if it can be performed from the ground or a stable work platform instead.

Substitution: Can a safer alternative method be used (e.g., extendable tools instead of ladders)?

Engineering Controls: Install permanent safety features such as guardrails, scaffolding, or safety nets.

Administrative Controls: Implement safe work procedures, training, and supervision.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use harnesses, lanyards, and helmets

Selecting the Right Fall Protection Equipment

When working at heights cannot be eliminated, having the right fall protection equipment is critical for safety and compliance. Employers must provide and maintain appropriate safety gear, including:

Fall Restraint Systems: Prevents workers from reaching an edge where a fall could occur (e.g., fixed-length lanyards).

Fall Arrest Systems: Stops a fall after it has occurred, minimising injury (e.g., full-body harness with a shock-absorbing lanyard).

Guardrails and Handrails: Permanent fixtures that prevent falls from elevated surfaces.

Scaffolding and Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs): Secure platforms for working at heights, reducing reliance on ladders.

Ladders and Mobile Platforms: Used only when necessary, with strict safety controls in place.

Inspection & Maintenance:

All harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points must be inspected before each use.

Equipment must comply with AS/NZS 1891.1:2007 for industrial fall-arrest systems.

Employers must keep records of all safety equipment inspections

Creating an Effective Emergency Response Plan

Even with the best safety measures in place, businesses must have a clear emergency response plan in case of a fall or incident.

This includes:

Emergency procedures for rescuing a suspended worker safely.

First aid training for workers to provide immediate assistance.

Access to emergency equipment, such as rescue kits or descent devices.

Clear communication channels to report incidents immediately.

The Importance of Proper Training and Competency

Under Australian WHS laws, workers who perform tasks at heights must be trained and competent. Employers are responsible for ensuring their workforce has the necessary skills to operate safely.

Key Training Requirements for Working at Heights

Workers must be trained in:

Correct use of height safety equipment, including harnesses and lanyards.

Identifying height-related hazards and risks.

Emergency response procedures in case of a fall.

Correct setup and use of ladders, scaffolding, and EWPs.

High-Risk Work Licences:

For certain height-related tasks, such as operating scaffolding, EWPs over 11m, or performing dogging/rigging work, a High-Risk Work Licence (HRWL) is required.

Training Courses at Life International

At Life International Training, we provide nationally recognised Working at Heights competency training, ensuring your team is fully equipped with the skills and certification required to operate safely and legally.

You can find our relevant courses such as the RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights – 1 Day and RIIHAN301E Operate Elevated Work Platform here: https://lifeint.com.au/training.html

Call 1300 888 765