CP For Prevention of Falls - Draft

Code of Practice for Prevention of Falls DRAFT
Contents
List of References................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
SECTION A: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS .........................................................1
PART 1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................1

1.1 Title .....................................................................................................1
1.2 Scope..................................................................................................1
1.3 Purpose...............................................................................................1
1.4 Terms and Definitions .........................................................................2
PART 2 RISK MANAGEMENT...............................................................................3
2.1 Overview .............................................................................................3
2.2 Employee Engagement.......................................................................3
2.3 Hazard Identification ...........................................................................4
2.4 Assessing and Analyzing Risks ..........................................................5
2.5 Risk Control ........................................................................................6
2.6 Elimination ..........................................................................................7
2.7 Substitution .........................................................................................7
2.8 Engineering Control ............................................................................7
2.9 Administrative Controls .......................................................................8
2.10 Use of Personal Protective Equipment..............................................10
2.11 Unsuring Controls are Safe and Do Not Introduce New Risks ..........11
2.12 Maintaining and Re-evaluation of Controls .......................................11
PART 3 SUPERVISION ......................................................................................11
PART 4 INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING .................................................................12
4.1 INFORMATION, INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING ...............................................12
PART 5 EMERGENCY RESPONSE ......................................................................12
5.1 Emergency Planning .........................................................................15
5.2 Rescue Operations - Fall Arrest Systems .........................................15
SECTION B: FALL CONTROL MEASURES ......................................................17
PART 6 ACCESS TO AND EGRESS FROM W ORK AREAS .......................................17
DRAFT i
6.1 Access and Egress Risk and Assessment ........................................17

6.2 Access and Egress Safety Considerations .......................................18
6.3 Roof Access......................................................................................18
6.4 Guarding of Holes and Openings......................................................19
PART 7 EDGE PROTECTION..............................................................................20
7.1 Perimeter Guard Railing....................................................................20
PART 8 FALL PROTECTION SYSTEMS ................................................................22
8.1 Scaffolds ...........................................................................................22
8.2 Tower Scaffolds ................................................................................23
8.3 Elevating Work Platforms/Hoists.......................................................25
8.5 Mast Climbing Work Platforms..........................................................27
8.6 Suspended Cages ............................................................................28
PART 9 Work Positioning Systems ................................................................29
9.1 Industrial Rope Access Systems.......................................................29
9.2 Travel Restraint Systems ..................................................................31
PART 10 FALL ARREST SYSTEM .....................................................................33
10.1 Safety Nets .......................................................................................33
10.2 Disadvantages of Safety Nets...........................................................33
10.3 Safety Nets and Stakeholders Responsibilities ................................33
10.4 Catch Platforms ................................................................................35
10.5 Individual Fall Arrest Systems...........................................................36
10.6 Fall Arrest System Limitation ............................................................36
10.7 Instruction and Training for Workers Using Individual Fall-arrest
Systems .......................................................................................................37
10.8 Hazards of Fall Arrest Systems.........................................................37
10.9 Rescue of Workers Who are Using Individual Fall-arrest Systems ...38
10.10 Fall Arrest Components (Harnesses, Lines and Lanyards) ...........39
10.11 Inspection of Faults and Conditions...............................................40
PART 11 LADDERS AND STEP PLATFORMS.......................................................41
11.1 Ladders and Step Platforms..............................................................43
11.2 Portable Ladders...............................................................................43
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11.3 Step Platform ....................................................................................43

11.4 Safety Guidelines For Ladders..........................................................44
PART 12 HAZARDS OF WORKING AT ROOFTOP ..................................................45
12.1 Fragile/Brittle Roofing........................................................................45
12.2 Work on Fragile or Brittle Roofing Materials......................................45
12.3 Maintenance or Repairs of Fragile or Brittle Roofing ........................47
DRAFT iii
List of References
1. Australian Government NOHSC - National Code Of Practice For The
Prevention Of Falls From Heights In Construction Work 2004
2. Government Of Western Australia Commission For Occupational Safety
And Health - Code Of Practice Prevention Of Falls At Work Places 2004
3. Worksafe Victoria Code Of Practice No.29 Prevention Of Falls In
Housing Construction 2004
4. Worksafe BC OHS Regulations Guidelines Part 11 Fall Protection
5. Royal Gazette Of The Province Of Nova Scotia (Canada) Fall Protection
And Scaffolding Regulations Made Under Section 82 Of The OHS Act
S.N.S 1996,C.7 O.I.C. 96-14 (January 3, 1996), N.S. Reg 2/96
6. OSHA Regulations (Standards 29 Cfr) Sample Fall Protection Plan
Non Mandatory Guidelines For Complying With 1926.502(K) 1926
Subpart M App E
7. HSE Safe Use Of Ladders And Step Ladders An Employers Guide
8. HSE The Work At Height Regulations 2005 A Brief Guide
DRAFT iv
Code of Practice for Prevention of Falls
Section A: General Requirements
Part 1 Introduction
1.1 Title
1.1.1 The title of this document is called the Code of Practice on Prevention of
Falls.
1.2 Scope
1.2.1 This code of practice provides comprehensive guidelines on measures
and practices required to prevent persons from falling while working at
height. The recommendations in this code of practice are applicable
across all industry sectors and it also includes fall prevention in excavation
works undertaken in relation to the construction of buildings and
structures.
1.3 Purpose
1.3.1 The objective of this code of practice is to promote a high standard of
safety for workplaces where there is a risk of falling from height or into
depth. This code of practice provides practical guidance using risk
management framework as the fundamental to identify and control the
hazards of working at heights
1.3.2 This code also describes and illustrates a variety of fall control measures
and devices which can be adopted for use when risk of falling is present.
However, users of this code should be aware that new development in fall
controls are constantly being introduced and it is not the intent of this code
to limit of prohibit the use of new methods or devices in fall prevention.
DRAFT 1
1.4 Terms and Definitions

1.4.1 Administrative controls means policies and procedures for safe work
practices.
1.4.2 Competent person means a person who is competent to undertake the
activities that are normally performed by persons engaged in the
occupation concerned to the standard that is generally accepted within
that occupation, and who has demonstrated knowledge and skills in:
Identifying hazards and eliminating or minimising risks arising from
hazards; and
Safe work practices and systems of work.
1.4.3 Fall means a person falling and includes reference to a person falling
from, through or into a place or thing.
1.4.4 Fall arrest system means equipment or material or a combination of
both that is designed for the purpose of preventing, or reducing the
severity of injury to a person in the event of a fall e.g. safety nets, catch
platforms, safety harness systems (except for travel restraint system).
1.4.5 Hazard refers to any source or situation with potential to cause injury or
harm to the health of a person.
1.4.6 Fall protection system means material or equipment, or a combination
of both, that is designed for the purpose of preventing a person falling, and
which, after initial installation, requires ongoing inspection to ensure
integrity but does not require ongoing adjustment to ensure that the
system performs its function. E.g. scaffolds and elevating work platforms.
1.4.7 Risk means the probability and consequence of injury or illness.
1.4.8 Solid construction means a constructed supporting surface which:
Is structurally capable of supporting people, material and any other
loads intended to be applied to it;
Is provided with protection at its perimeter, around open penetrations
and any other area necessary to prevent persons falling; and
Has an even and readily negotiable surface and gradient and is
provided with a safe means of access and egress.
DRAFT 2
Part 2 Risk Management
2.1 Overview
2.1.1 Employers have a duty to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, that
employees are not exposed to hazards at the workplace. They can do this
by following a risk management process.
2.1.2 Risk management involves identifying hazards, assessing risks,
implementing appropriate control measures, and monitoring and reviewing
those measures.
2.1.3 In identifying hazards where a person may fall and in assessing and
controlling the risks, a group effort by a multi-disciplinary team is needed.
This is to ensure that the risk identification is thorough and covers multiple
aspects. In addition, consideration should be given to:
Previous injuries, near miss incidents or accidents arising from falls
that had occurred at the workplace or other similar workplaces;
Relevant codes of practice and guidance notes;
Consultation with employees, safety and health representatives(if any),
safety and health committees, self employed people and contractors to
find out what risks they may be exposed to when working;
Walk-through inspections of the workplace; and
Any other records or statistics which indicate potentially unsafe work
practices.
2.2 Employee Engagement

2.2.1 Employees health and safety representatives should be consulted when
identifying fall hazards, and when assessing, eliminating or controlling the
risk of a fall.
2.2.2 If employees do not have a health and safety representative, the workers
themselves should be consulted. Their experience and knowledge can
help in identifying fall hazards and controlling the risks involved.
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2.2.3 Many workplaces employ people with non-English speaking backgrounds.

When consulting, consider the language needs of these employees and
take appropriate action to facilitate the consultation.
2.2.4 When identifying fall hazards and assessing and controlling the risks, the
person with overall management and control should also consult other
employers and self employed persons who are engaged in the work.
2.3 Hazard Identification

2.3.1 Identifying hazards involves recognising any work process, activity, source
or situation with potential to cause injury or harm to a person such as
when a person falls from, through or into a place or equipment.
2.3.2 The planning process is important for the identification and elimination of
hazards. While the focus of this code of practice is on the hazards
associated with working at heights, it is also important to address and
extend to other general occupational safety and health hazards such as
manual handling, noise, hazardous substances, falling objects, slips and
trips.
2.3.3 All hazards to which a person (including members of the public) could be
exposed to as a result of working at heights should be identified. The
hazards should always be identified prior to work commencement and
when changes to systems of work are planned or occur. Any of the
conditions listed in table 1 could be a potential hazard and should be
considered.
2.3.4 There are a number of ways to identify potential hazards or situations that
may cause a fall to occur. Choosing an appropriate process or procedure
for identifying hazards will depend on the nature of the work environment
and the hazards involved.
2.3.5 A hazard identification process or procedure may range from a simple
checklist for specific equipment, such as a ladder or fall arrest system, to a
more open-ended appraisal of a group of related work processes.
Generally a combination of methods will provide the most effective results.
DRAFT 4
Table 2.1: Work environments that have potential to cause falling from heights
Work Environments
Raised work surfaces such as slopes can make it difficult for
workers to maintain their balance;
Slippery work surfaces (wet, oily, dusty or glazed);
Uneven work surfaces (for example, broken ground or profiled
roof sheeting);
Cramped work surfaces can prevent workers from moving freely;
Work surfaces cluttered with tools, work materials and debris;
Workers working in adverse weather conditions for example in
rain, strong or gusty winds, extreme heat or high humidity, or
very cold conditions;
Unprotected edges that are difficult to see ( this may be
exacerbated due to obstructions, glare or deep shadows);
Building materials, large tools, or equipment that need to be
manually carried ;
Several different contractors working in the same work area at
the same time; or
Pedestrians or road traffic interference on the job.
2.4 Assessing and Analyzing Risks

2.4.1 Assessing risks involves looking at the likelihood of a fall occurring and, if
a fall had already occurred, the extent of any harm or injury (i.e. the
consequences). In this manner, hazards that have higher risks need to be
given priority.
DRAFT 5
2.4.2 A person or group undertaking risk assessment must have all the
necessary information, knowledge and experience of that work
environment and the work processes involved.
2.4.3 Risk assessment should provide information on:
Where, which and how many employees are likely to be at risk of
incurring injuries;
How often this is likely to occur; and
The potential severity of any injuries.
2.4.4 When the risks have been assessed, reasonably practicable measures
must be taken to reduce or maintain the risk level at an acceptable level. It
is important that no work should be allowed to commence if the risks are
assessed to be high or unacceptable.
2.4.5 It is common for an industry association or a large organisation to
undertake a generic assessment model to be used in similar workplaces.
If such a model is used, it is necessary to ensure that the assessment is
valid and relevant for the particular workplace.
2.5 Risk Control

2.5.1 If risks of falls exist, the employer or occupier should, as far as reasonably
practicable, put measures in place to control those risks.
2.5.2 The measures below are listed in terms of their effectiveness from the
most effective to the least effective according to a hierarchy of control as
shown in Figure 2.1.
DRAFT 6
Figure 2.1: Hierarchy of Control
2.6 Elimination
2.6.1 Elimination of hazards refers to the total removal of the hazards and
hence effectively making all the identified possible accidents and ill health
impossible.
2.6.2 This is a permanent solution and should be attempted in the first instance.
If the hazard is removed, all the other controls, such as the use of fall
protection system, workplace monitoring and surveillance would no longer
be required.
2.6.3 For example, to reduce the risk of falling from rooftops, wherever
practicable, sections of the roofs should be prefabricated on the ground,
with the completed roof or sections being placed into position by
appropriate lifting procedures. Other examples of elimination include:
Prefabricating wall frames horizontally before standing them up;
Using pre cast tilt-up concrete construction instead of concrete walls
constructed in situ; and
Using paint rollers with extendable handles rather then a ladder
2.7 Substitution
2.7.1 This involves replacing the hazard by one that presents a lower risk e.g.
providing an alternative means of access such as a safe walkway so that
the risks of falls are avoided.
DRAFT 7
2.8 Engineering Control

2.8.1 Engineering controls are physical means that limit the hazard. These
include structural changes to the work environment or work processes and
erecting barriers to interrupt the transmission path between the worker
and the hazard. It may include modifications to the plant or providing
guarding to worksites or equipment.
2.8.2 Section B provides detailed descriptions of the following engineering risk

control measures:
Access and egress from work areas
Edge protection
Fall protection systems
2.9 Administrative Controls

2.9.1 Administrative controls are systems of work or work procedures that help
to reduce the exposure of workers to fall hazards.
2.9.2 Safe Working Procedures (SWPs) are systematic instructions on how
work can be carried out safely. Using information obtained from risk
assessment, a set of SWPs should be written for various jobs on site.
2.9.3 The SWP provides step by step instruction on how jobs are to be
executed, who should be in charge of these jobs, what safety precautions
must be taken (based on the risk assessment made earlier) and what kind
of training is necessary for the workers doing these jobs.
2.9.4 The SWP must be communicated to everyone involved in the job so that
each is aware of the role they play in it. The SWP must also be
communicated to those who will be affected by the job.
2.9.5 It is necessary to provide a high level of supervision to ensure that the
safe work procedure is being followed. Regular review of the effectiveness
of the procedures should be undertaken.
DRAFT 8
2.9.6 Administrative controls may also be used to support other control

measures that are put in place. For example, work procedures may be
needed to ensure the safe use of temporary work platforms, devices that
prevent a fall to a lower level, fall arrest systems and ladders.
Fig 2.2: Tagging to warn that the scaffold is unsafe for use
2.9.7 Administrative controls may also be needed to limit the time employees
are exposed to the fall hazard and the number of employees involved in
the task.
2.9.8 Administrative controls may include No Entry areas
2.9.9 Employers should consider involving contractors and employees in the
development of administrative controls. People who perform a task
regularly often have a good understanding of the risks involved.
2.9.10 Make sure that the work is well organised so that workers do not increase
the risk of a fall for themselves or others. For example, sequence jobs so
that different trades are not working above or below each other at the
same time
DRAFT 9
No Entry Areas (to be shown as boxed out)

Marking out an area can be effective in making sure that people are not
exposed to fall hazards. There should be adequate signage to warn
against access to the hazardous area.
Employers should provide relevant information to employees on site
and adequate supervision to ensure that no worker enters a No Entry
area.
2.10 Use of Personal Protective Equipment

2.10.1 Personal protective equipment should be used only as a last resort, after
all other control measures have been considered, or as a short term
contingency during maintenance / repair or as an additional protective
measure.
2.10.2 The success of this control is dependent on the protective equipment
being chosen correctly, as well as fitted correctly and worn properly at all
times when required by employees.
2.10.3 Section B provides detailed descriptions of the Personal Protective
Equipment that may be suitable for persons working at heights
Work position system
Fall arrest system
2.10.4 . In addition, other personal protection equipment that should be
considered include:
Footwear that is suitable to prevent slips;
Gloves that will give protection against abrasive and chemical
materials;
Eye protection such as sunglasses to ensure that a worker at height is
not at risk due to glare or reflection; and
Safety helmets that will remain in place in the event of a fall
DRAFT 10
2.11 Ensuring Control Measures are Safe and Do Not Introduce New Risks
2.11.1 Make sure that the control measures selected do not expose those
installing, erecting or removing it (such as scaffolding) to a greater risk
than the one it is designed to control, even if it is highly effective once it is
in place.
2.11.2 If equipment is used to control the risk, it should be selected or designed
and constructed specifically for the task and the working environment.
2.12 Maintaining and Re-evaluation of Controls

2.12.1 The control measures implemented should be regularly monitored to
ensure that they are effective and are in good working condition.
2.12.2 Any equipment used must be inspected, tested and serviced regularly
according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
2.12.3 Risk management should be an ongoing process as the work environment
is constantly changing. It is important to constantly monitor and review
control measures to ensure that they continue to prevent or control
exposure to hazards or hazardous work practices.
Part 3 Supervision
3.1 A competent person should be appointed to provide proper supervision to

workers to ensure that they are not exposed to hazards and reasonable
precautions have been taken where there is a risk of falling.
3.2 Supervision is especially important if the persons being supervised are
undergoing training or are unfamiliar with the working environment.
3.3 Employers implementing an effective safety management system should
monitor the work to ensure that agreed safe work practices are followed;
for example, monitoring the use and care of fall arrest systems.
DRAFT 11
3.4 It is essential for those in supervisory roles to ensure that :

They themselves are competent and have the necessary skills,
knowledge and authority to undertake their roles;
Their employees are adequately supervised, particularly when working
in an elevated position;
Only employees who have received appropriate training and instruction
in relation to the system of work are authorised to carry out the work;
Employers and occupiers are to ensure that adequate safety and
health systems are in place and that functional and safe work practices
have been adopted.
Part 4 Instruction and Training

4.1 Information, Instruction and Training
4.1.1 Where there is a risk of falling from height, information, instruction and
training should be provided to the persons concerned so that they have
the skill and knowledge that they need to perform work at height safely. It
should help them understand:
The importance of being competent to do the work;
The fall hazards to which they are exposed;
The risk of injury associated with the task; and
Why control measures are needed and how to use them properly
4.1.2 The amount and type of information, instruction and training required
depends on the severity of the hazard and the risk involved. It also
depends on the level of operator skill required to operate or use the
control measure. A comprehensive training process will generally be
required for tasks involving complex work procedures or risk control
measures.
4.1.3 The type of instruction and training given should include:
General safety and health induction;
Task specific induction;
On- job training;
DRAFT 12
In house training programmes designed to address specific needs,

such as specific training for working at height and the correct use of
ladders; and
Industry based or formal training, such as accredited or certified
courses.
4.1.4 Induction training should be provided for all new employees. Records of
training should be kept to enable on-going programme evaluation and
review.
4.1.5 Induction programmes are essential for new employees and for those
taking up new jobs or where work situations have changed. Induction
should be the platform whereby, a person new to a job, gains the first
experience of a task or a particular work environment.
4.1.6 In developing and implementing an effective programme, employers
should perform:
An analysis of training needs, including the identification of the tasks to
be performed and any associated hazards and risks;
Identification of any pre-requisites or entry standards;
Definition of learning objectives and clear identification of the
extent/level of competencies to be achieved;
Selection of appropriate training aids depending on the environment
and targeted trainees;
Adequate assessment;
Recognition of skills attained where applicable (e.g. accreditation or
certification);
Delivery of training by a competent person; and
Evaluation of effectiveness of training.
4.1.7 Training in the prevention of falls should include:
An understanding of what the particular task requires and any hazards
and risks involved;
Safe work practices to prevent a fall;
DRAFT 13
Correct selection, fitting, use, care, maintenance and storage of fall

arrest systems, including safety nets;
Correct selection, fitting, use, care, maintenance and storage of
personal protective equipment;
Correct selection, use, care and storage of tools and equipment to be
used;
Procedures in the event of an emergency such as rescue, accident, or
injury;
Proper methods of working on fragile material;
Electrical safety;
Maintaining record keeping procedures and systems; and
Hazard and accident reporting systems.
4.1.8 Some control measures may not involve any specific skills and therefore
may not require an extensive training process. However, depending on the
task being carried out, an information and instruction programme may still
be necessary. For example, guardrail systems do not require any special
skills for the employees to be afforded protection. However employees
working where a guardrail system is used to control the risk of falling need
to have knowledge of why the guardrail system is needed and any
limitations of the system. They should, for example, be instructed not to
stand on or climb over the guardrail.
4.1.9 An individual fall arrest system requires high level of competency on the
part of the user to ensure that it is used properly. Employees who use
these systems should be trained in the correct fitting, anchorage, use and
maintenance of the individual fall-arrest systems, as well as the nature of
the fall hazard and the risks of injury associated with the tasks that they
undertake using individual fall-arrest systems. This training should cover
the risks of injury associated with an arrested fall.
4.1.10 Information should be provided in a form that can be understood by all
employees. This may include providing information in languages other
than English.
DRAFT 14
Part 5 Emergency Response

5.1 Emergency Planning
5.1.1 A written emergency response plan should be established.
5.1.2 Emergency response equipment should be kept on site and made readily
available and accessible.
5.1.3 As rescue operations are often carried out under extreme pressure,
consideration should be given to all aspects of the rescue process.
Elements to consider should include the type of:
o Equipment required;
o The demands placed upon the rescuer;
o The training the rescuer will require, to carry out the rescue; and
o How the effectiveness of the rescue system as a whole can be
maintained.
5.1.4 Employees must be provided with:
Information on emergency rescue procedures;
Procedures on what they should do in the event of different
emergencies such as rescues, accidents or injuries;
An induction on the emergency rescue procedures;
Training in the use of fall-arrest systems;
Training in the emergency rescue procedures and the use of
equipment (for emergency responders); and
First aid facilities and first aid training for those who may be required to
provide first aid.
5.2 Rescue Operations - Fall Arrest Systems

5.2.1 Rescue procedures should take into account the need for:
A plan and timeframe to carry out any rescues;
The immediate rescue of a person after an arrested fall, without the
need to rely on external emergency services. This will help prevent
DRAFT 15
injuries such as suspension trauma which can occur when a person is

suspended in a harness (Refer to pg17);
The necessary equipment required to carry out a rescue;
The installation of individual fall-arrest systems and individual rope
access systems in locations where it is possible to assist or rescue a
person quickly if required;
Ensuring that all workers who will be working with the fall injury
prevention system receive information, instruction and training in
emergency rescue processes and are familiar with fall arrest systems
and devices, prior to work commencement;
Ensuring that any persons using a fall-arrest system or industrial rope
access are not working alone. This is important if there is risk of a fall;
The availability of and access to first aid facilities or services, including
trained first aiders. The rescue team should include a person or people
trained in the provision of first aid so that it can be administered to the
fall victim in the event of an injury occurring during a fall;
The details of additional support facilities, including the location,
contact information and availability of emergency services, such as fire
brigade, ambulance and hospitals; and
An effective and readily available means of communication.
DRAFT 16
Suspension Trauma
With the use of a fall arrest system, suspension trauma may occur
when a person has an arrested fall because they are suspended and
caught in an upright, vertical position and the harness straps cause
pressure on the leg veins. The blood flow to the heart is reduced,
resulting in fainting, restriction of movement or loss of consciousness in
a few minutes. This may lead to renal failure and eventually death,
depending on a persons susceptibility. The condition may be worsened
by heat and dehydration.
Susceptibility to suspension trauma may be unrelated to fitness level or
any other obvious physical conditions. A quick rescue of a person
suspended in a full body harness, as soon as is possible, is vital.
Workers should be capable of conducting a rescue of a fallen worker
and be familiar with onsite rescue equipment and procedures. Workers
and emergency response personnel must be trained in the rescue
procedures and be able to recognise the risks of suspension trauma
and act quickly in the rescue of a person.
Section B: Fall Control Measures

Part 6 Access to and Egress from Work Areas
6.1 Access and Egress Risk and Assessment
6.1.1 If people are required to work in areas where there is a risk of falling,
employers must provide a safe method for people to get to, from and
move around the work area. The assessment should take into account the
tools and equipment which people will be required to carry to, from, and
around the work area.
DRAFT 17
6.2 Access and Egress Safety Considerations

6.2.1 In providing safe access to, egress from and movement around a work
area, the safety considerations should include:
Installation of fixed work platforms, walkways and stairways;
Use of temporary work platforms such as scaffolds and crawl boards;
Installation of fall arrest systems;
Frequency and number of people who may need access to or egress
from the work area. Supervision and regular inspection should also be
considered;
Location and space required for any equipment or materials used or
being temporarily stored;
Safety of work surfaces;
Method of getting equipment and materials to the work area;
Exposure of access ways to the weather e.g. rain can make surfaces
slippery and strong winds can cause loss of hand grip;
Provision of adequate natural or artificial lighting to all access ways;
and
The clearance of obstructions so that persons are able to move easily
to and from the workplace.
6.3 Roof Access

6.3.1 Employers and occupiers should provide their workers with a safe means
of getting to and from the roof particularly when other roofs need to be
crossed to reach an area for work. The access ways need to be in place
before commencing work. Access should be located where the work on
the roof is to begin.
6.3.2 For new roof installations or where extensive repair or replacement of
existing roofs is planned, it is recommended that a ladder access tower or
a personnel and materials hoist be provided.
DRAFT 18
6.3.3 After a roof membrane has been installed, special provisions may need to
be made if the roof is to be used as a platform for access, egress, work or
storage. A means of access and egress that complies with appropriate
standards should be provided for workers. If access and egress is
required regularly, a permanent walkway may need to be installed, for
example, stairs. Stairs should serve each floor of a building or structure
that is being constructed or demolished .
6.4 Guarding of Holes and Openings

6.4.1 Holes and openings present two significant hazards. Firstly, a person may
fall through a hole. Secondly, cuts and bruises may result when feet or
legs penetrate holes.
6.4.2 All holes and openings other than lift openings, stairwells or vehicle
inspection pits into which a person may fall through or step into should be
guarded with embedded wire mesh and covered with material of adequate
strength to prevent entry by object or persons.
Fig 6.1 Left, unprotected holes are severe hazards and must be covered. Right, a sign to
be affixed to the hole cover.
DRAFT 19
Part 7 Edge Protection

7.1 Perimeter Guard Railing
7.1.1 Edge protection (often referred to as a guardrail) is used to reduce the
risk of a person falling from one level to another.
7.1.2 Edge protection must be provided to the edge of a scaffold, walkway,
ramp, and landing or wherever a person is at risk of falling two or more
meters. The protection must also be able to withstand the impact of a
person falling against it.
Fig 7.2 Stairways must have handrails and toe

(fender) boards on the landings and bagging fitted
Fig 7.1 Unprotected stairways are a over the ends of tubing and over couplings.
severe hazard
DRAFT 20
7.1.3 Edge protection or a fall protection system must also be provided at any
other edge at the workplace where a person could fall. Such protection
must be according to set requirements, which are listed in the following
checklist:
The guard rail system must be of solid construction and be able to
withstand the weight of a person applied at any point
Top rails must be at least 1m above the working surface;
Mid rails and toe boards must be provided. However, wire mesh infill
panels incorporating a toe board may be used instead of the mid rail;
A bottom rail above the toe board on some roof slopes may be
provided for more severe roof slopes. Both a mid rail and infill mesh
panel will assist in preventing persons and objects from sliding off the
roof;
If access points are required for equipment (for example, a hoist), they
should be protected adequately with gates, safety chains or any other
means to prevent a person falling. The access points should always be
covered when not in use;
Where guard rail systems are intended to be used in conjunction with
steel structures or tilt-up construction, designers and builders should
plan for the guard rails and fixings to be attached to the panels prior to
the structures being raised from the edge protection that is being used.
This is in order to reduce the risk of a person falling from one level to
another.
Scaffold may be used as fall protection around the edge of the roof by
incorporating guard railing as edge protection into the scaffold.
DRAFT 21
Part 8 Fall Protection Systems

8.1 Scaffolds
8.1.1 Scaffolds are any temporary structures:
On and from which a person performs work in any workplace or;
Which enable a person to access the location to perform work; or
Which enable materials to be taken to any place at which work is being
performed.
8.1.2 Scaffolds can be very effective in preventing falls. However there are
specific requirements that apply to the design, construction and the
erection of the scaffolds.
8.1.3 All scaffolds and its components must conform to the regulations
stipulated in the Workplace Safety and Health Act (Scaffolds) Regulations.
8.1.4 If a scaffold exceeds 4m, it must be erected by an approved scaffold
contractor.
8.1.5 The design of a professional engineer may be necessary for some
scaffolds of certain height. For construction sites and general factories,
construction of any metal scaffolds exceeding 30 meters in height and/or
with cantilever or jib support will require the design of a professional
engineer. For shipyards, construction of metal scaffolds exceeding 15
meters in height will also require the design of a professional engineer
8.1.6 In addition, all hanging scaffolds (commonly used in shipyards), from
which a person may fall more than 2 meters must also be constructed and
installed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional
engineer.
DRAFT 22
Fig 8.1 An example of a suspended scaffold. The scaffold should be balanced at all
times.
8.2 Tower Scaffolds

8.2.1 Tower scaffolds are a particular form of prefabricated scaffolding. They
incorporate fabricated frame units constructed as single-bay towers. Most
available tower systems are aluminum, but steel systems are also
available. A tower scaffold that is fitted with castor wheels equipped with
effective locking devices is deemed to be a mobile tower scaffold.
DRAFT 23
Fig 8.2 Mobile scaffold, access ladder and

trap door to provide the maximum size
hazard-free working platform. Toe board not
shown for clarity of the diagram.
8.2.2 A tower scaffold should be erected by a competent person.

8.2.3 Edge protection such as guardrails should be provided at the highest
landing.
8.2.4 When a tower scaffold is mounted on castors for use as a mobile scaffold,
the following rules should be strictly observed:
Tower scaffolds should be moved with utmost caution;
Prior to moving, the route must be checked for power lines, overhead
obstructions and for holes and uneven surfaces on the ground;
Only use the scaffold on a hard, flat surface;
Never access the scaffold until all its castors are locked to prevent
movement;
Never shift or move the scaffold while anyone is on it;
Do not cover the scaffold with containment sheeting such as shade
cloth, unless it has been specifically designed for the purpose and it is
only used in an enclosed, wind-protected environment;
DRAFT 24
Tower scaffolds must be inspected by a competent person before its

first use:
- After substantial alteration;
- After any event likely to have affected its stability; or
- Once it has been in place for 7 days.
At intervals not exceeding 7 days, tower scaffolds must be inspected
and a written report made.
8.3 Elevating Work Platforms/Hoists

8.3.1 An elevating work platform is any telescoping, scissor or articulating
equipment used to position personnel, materials or equipment at height.
DRAFT 25
Fig 8.3 Above left, an example of a scissor lift elevating work platform. Above right, an
example of a boom arm platform with safety harness and lanyard assembly.
8.3.2 Elevating work platforms consist of a platform surrounded by an edge

protection system. The protected platform is used to position persons at
work areas. Elevating work platforms are available in a wide variety of
types and sizes. They include scissor lifts and boom lifts.
8.3.3 There are battery powered and internal combustion engine types. Some
are designed for hard flat surfaces only, while others are designed for
operation on rough terrain.
Elevated work platforms:
Should only be used on a solid level surface. The surface area should
be checked to make sure that there are no penetrations or
obstructions that can cause uncontrolled movement or the platform to
overturn;
Should be clearly marked with a safe working load limit or maximum
rate capacity notice; and
Should not be used in high wind conditions.
8.3.4 Operators working in boom lifts should wear an anchored safety harness.
8.3.5 Operators of boom lifts should be properly trained and competent for the
job.
DRAFT 26
8.4 Suspended Gondola

8.4.1 A building maintenance unit is a power-operated suspended working
platform that is fixed permanently to a building structure. It is used for
access during building maintenance or window cleaning
8.4.2 During the planning stage, consideration should be given to the methods
by which maintenance, repairs or cleaning will be undertaken on buildings
or structures.
8.4.3 Consideration of future maintenance requirements in the early design
stage will avoid the possibility of unsafe work practices occurring during
routine maintenance. Sloping building exteriors and decline windows
require priority consideration to ensure that safe maintenance may be
carried out in a safe manner.
8.5 Mast Climbing Work Platforms

8.5.1 Mast climbing work platforms are hoists that have a working platform used
for temporary purposes to raise personnel and materials to the working
position.
8.5.2 Mast climbing platforms are generally not suitable for use where the profile
of a structure changes at different elevations, for example where upper
floors of a building step back or balconies protrude from the building.
8.5.3 The erection and rigging of mast climbing work platforms should be
carried out or directly supervised by a competent person.
8.5.4 Operators working in mast climbing work platforms should wear an
anchored safety harness.
DRAFT 27
8.6 Suspended Cages

8.6.1 Suspended cages are personnel carrying devices, designed for
attachment to a crane, to provide a working area for a person who is
elevated by, and works from the cage.
8.6.2 Suspended cages consist of a platform surrounded by an edge protection
system. Persons should only access the suspended cage when the
suspended cage is not suspended and the surrounding area has space to
provide access to or from the suspended cage.
8.6.3 The cranes free fall facility should not be operated in the hoist motion
while the crane is supporting a suspended cage carrying people.
8.6.4 Mobile cranes should be blocked at all times when using a suspended
cage.
8.6.5 People using the suspended cage should only be allowed to enter or leave
the suspended cage from the ground or solid construction. People using
the suspended cage should wear a safety harness and lanyard anchored
to the crane hook.
8.6.6 The suspended cage and crane should only be accessed by qualified
personnel.
8.6.7 For detailed guidance on the use of suspended cages, please refer to
Singapore Standard CP 63 : 1996 (2005) Code of Practice for the Lifting
of Persons in Work Platforms Suspended from Cranes.
DRAFT 28
Part 9 Work Positioning Systems

9.1 Industrial Rope Access Systems
9.1.1 Industrial rope access systems are used for gaining access to a work face,
usually by means of vertically suspended ropes. Although fall arrest
components are used in the industrial rope access system, the main
purpose of the system is to gain access to a work area rather than to
provide backup fall protection. Elevating work platforms and building
maintenance units, which require less skill to operate than an industrial
rope access system, should be used if it is reasonably practicable to do
so.
Fig 9.1 Operator using an industrial rope access system.
DRAFT 29
9.1.2 Industrial rope access systems are a specialised and job specific form of
abseiling. The system is suited to access areas for work such as window
cleaning, sign maintenance on high rise buildings and other forms of
maintenance where it is not reasonably practicable to use other forms of
access. Such systems are only suited for light duties or work.
9.1.3 Industrial rope access systems require a high level of competency on the
part of the user to ensure safe use. An industrial rope access system can
be extremely dangerous if used by an inexperienced or untrained user.
9.1.4 Where it is necessary for industrial rope access systems to be used:
Personnel should receive training and instruction in the technique and
possess a high level of competency;
Operators should be adequately supervised;
All operators should wear a full body harness;
Supervisors should ensure communication between personnel is
sufficient for the task;
Procedures should be clearly understood by the operator;
Two independently anchored ropes should be used for each person;
Any person within 2 meters of an unguarded edge should be
adequately secured;
Operators should not work alone, in case assistance is required in an
emergency;
Barricades and signposts should be placed on all access points to the
base and anchorage locations (for both public and workers);
Industrial rope access systems should only be installed in a location
where it is possible to provide prompt assistance or rescue when
necessary; and
An industrial rope access system is NOT designed to stop or sustain
falls unless combined with a fall arrest lanyard.
DRAFT 30
9.2 Travel Restraint Systems

9.2.1 A travel restraint system is a system that:
Consists of a harness or belt, attached to one or more lanyards, each
of which is attached to a static line or anchorage point; and
Is designed to restrict the traveling range of a person wearing the
harness or belt so that the person cannot get into a position where the
person could fall off an edge of a surface or through a surface.
9.2.2 A roof anchor may be used as a travel restraint on steel sheeting or tiled
roofs during construction of the roof. It is lightweight, portable and can be
installed and removed fast.
9.2.3 Travel restraint systems can be used in conjunction with other fall
protection methods such as guardrails, safety nets and catch platforms.
9.2.4 Where it has been planned to use a travel restraint system, the following
conditions should be complied before the system is used:
The travel restraint system should prevent a person falling from the
edge of, or through the roof. The system should not be used on fragile
roofs; and
Persons setting up and/or using the system should be able to
demonstrate that they have a clear and thorough understanding of the
system and how the work area can be accessed without the possibility
of a fall occurring.
A travel restraint system is not designed to stop or sustain falls.
DRAFT 31
Fig 9.2 Top two diagrams show acceptable use of a restraint system. Bottom
diagram shows unacceptable use of a restraint system.
9.2.5 Where access to the corner of the roof is required, system users should
be attached to two or more sets of ropes and anchorages to prevent a fall
from either edge of the roof. While accessing the anchorage points, the
users should be restrained so that a fall cannot occur.
9.2.6 The anchorage points should be able to withstand the full weight of the
person using it without failure. Anchorage points should be designed for
additional loading should more than one person be using the system.
9.2.7 If the system consists of ropes that require their effective length to be
adjusted to prevent a fall occurring, the method of adjusting the rope
length should be by means of a lockable cam device or similar; if there is a
possibility of the rope grab (or similar) coming off the end of the rope, a
knot should be tied in its end.
DRAFT 32
Part 10 Fall Arrest System

10.1 Safety Nets
10.1.1 Safety nets should only be used as a last resort. It is advisable that other,
more reliable, means of fall arrest such as personal fall arrest systems be
used unless it is not reasonably practicable to use them.
10.1.2 Safety nets can provide a satisfactory system of fall arrest while allowing
workers maximum flexibility of movement. However safety nets should
never be used as a means of access to or egress from a work area or as a
working platform.
10.2 Disadvantages of Safety Nets

10.2.1 Safety nets have some inherent disadvantages. If safety nets are used,
employers should consider and find solutions to the following issues:
Difficulty of installing safety nets in most situations;
Persons may be injured even if they fall and land in the safety net;
Safety nets should be removed after the job is completed so the roof is
permanently left without mesh protection under the roof membrane;
Difficulty of rescuing the fallen person, particularly if they are injured;
and
People working above safety nets require training in falling as injury
may occur if they fall incorrectly.
10.3 Safety Nets and Stakeholders Responsibilities

10.3.1 Where safety nets are used as a fall arrest system, persons in charge
should ensure that:
Safety nets are in position before work commencement;
Safety nets are installed and maintained by a competent person;
Workers installing safety nets are protected from falling. When
installing safety nets, elevating work platforms such as scissor lifts
DRAFT 33
should be used. If this is not possible, scaffolds and fall arrest

systems should be used;
Safety nets being used are constructed of materials which have
sufficient strength to arrest the fall of persons or debris;
Safety nets are hung as close as is reasonably practicable to the
underside of the working area but no more than 6 meters below the
working area;
The maximum deflection at the centre of the net (4m x 3m) when
subject to a load should not be greater then 2m;
Perimeter safety nets are installed where there is no edge
protection to prevent workers from falling over the edges;
The safety net has sufficient tension and clearance to prevent a
falling person from contacting any surface or structure below the
net;
Safety nets are properly stored and kept in dry, sheltered areas
with good air circulation.
Combustible materials are not allowed to accumulate on
suspended safety nets;
No welding or oxy cutting is performed above safety nets;
Safety nets are not used in an environment that exposes them to
damage from chemicals, welding slag or heat;
Safety nets are inspected after installation, relocation or repair; and
Safety nets are inspected daily for cuts and damage from
abrasions, chemicals or heat. Repairs are made before any
unprotected work above the net is resumed.
10.3.2 For further information on safety nets, please refer to Singapore Standard
SS292 : 1984 Specification for Safety Nets for Construction Sites..
DRAFT 34
10.4 Catch Platforms

10.4.1 A catch platform is a temporary platform located below a work area to
arrest the fall of persons or debris. The platform should be of robust
construction and designed to sustain the maximum potential load.
10.4.2 Scaffold components may be used to construct a mobile catch platform.
Where this method is used, the platform should:
Incorporate a fully planked-out deck as close as possible to the
level at which work is proceeding;
Be positioned so as to maintain a minimum of 2 meters beyond all
unprotected edges of the work.
Fig 10.1 An example of a

catch platform below a
work area.
10.4.3 Frame trestle scaffolds and spilt head trestle scaffolds can provide simple
and inexpensive catch platforms. The latter is particularly effective in voids
and stairwells.
10.4.4 Where the pitch of the surface from which work is to be done is more than
26, the catch platform should be no more than 300 mm lower than the
edge of the surface. However if the pitch of the surface from which work is
to be done is 26 or less, then the catch platform should be no more than
1m lower than the edge of the surface.
DRAFT 35
10.5 Individual Fall Arrest Systems

10.5.1 Individual fall-arrest systems are intended to safely stop a worker from
falling an uncontrolled distance and to reduce the impact of the fall.
Individual fall-arrest systems are an assembly of interconnected
components consisting of a harness connected to an anchorage point or
anchorage system either directly or by means of a lanyard. They can be
used where workers are required to carry out their work near an
unprotected edge.
10.6 Fall Arrest System Limitation

10.6.1 Individual fall-arrest systems should only be used if it is not reasonably
practicable to use a risk control measure that prevents a fall to a lower
level. Individual fall-arrest systems require considerable skill to use safely,
and in the event of an arrested fall, it is likely to cause some physical
injury to the user.
10.6.2 Height clearance is another limitation of individual fall-arrest systems. For
a person falling from height, the combined length of the lanyard, sag in life
line and the shock absorber fully extended may be more than 5 meters in
total. These 5 meters might be more than the actual height of the fall.
10.6.3 Fall-arrest and travel restraint systems are generally only suitable for
minor work such as the following:
Roof inspection (not on fragile roofs);
Installation and removal of perimeter guard rail systems;
Minor repair work, including replacement of some isolated parts of
the roof;
Painting and cleaning;
Installations of skylights and ventilation fixtures;
Pointing up tiles or fitting ridge capping metal roofs; and
Installation and removal of the television aerials and other similar
communication equipment.
DRAFT 36
10.7 Instruction and Training for Workers Using Individual Fall-arrest

Systems
10.7.1 Workers required to use individual fall-arrest systems should be trained
and instructed in:
The correct fitting and attachment of safety harnesses;
The dangers of using incompatible hardware;
The inspection, maintenance and storage of equipment;
The correct anchorage, installation and use of the system; and
Emergency rescue procedures.
10.7.2 Upon completion of the training program, workers required to use
individual fall-arrest systems should be assessed for their competency in
the safe use of the equipment.
10.7.3 The safety harness is designed to arrest one fall only. In the event of a fall,
even if the shock absorber has not extended, the harness should be
inspected by a competent person before it is put to use again.
10.7.4 Should the clearance height be insufficient and the use of a lanyard could
result in a fall to the ground, an ideal solution is to use a retractable fall
arrest block.
10.8 Hazards of Fall Arrest Systems

10.8.1 There are some hazards when using the individual fall-arrest systems.
One such hazard is swing back and swing down. It is caused by the
pendulum effect of a person falling off the edge.
10.8.2 Swing back In a fall, particularly from a perpendicular edge, the worker
will swing back into the building structure and collide with any obstructions
in the path of the swing. If there is a risk of a swing back occurring, the
use of an individual fall-arrest systems should be reassessed.
10.8.3 Swing down In a swing down, the arrest line extends diagonally from
the anchor point, following the perimeter edge of the roof. If the worker
falls, the fall arrest line will slide back along the perimeter until it is at a
right angle with the edge of the roof. If the arrest line is too long, the
DRAFT 37
worker will drop and hit the ground or the arrest line may break when
contacting the edge of the roof and result in the worker hitting the ground.
Fig 10.2 Swing down hazard. Fig 10.3 Swing back hazard.
10.9 Rescue of Workers Who are Using Individual Fall-arrest Systems

10.9.1 In the event of a fall, the worker must be rescued as soon as possible.
This is necessary to prevent further injury (Read Part 5.2 for details on
Suspension Trauma)
10.9.2 There should be written rescue procedures that must ensure that persons
who fall can be rescued in less than 5 minutes. A person should not use a
fall-arrest system unless there is at least one other person present on site
who is trained to conduct rescue operations in the event of a fall.
10.9.3 Certain situations may require at least two persons to safely rescue the
fallen worker. The rescue procedure must not put the rescuers at risk. If
an elevating work platform is to be used for a rescue, it should be readily
available at all times should a person be using an individual fall-arrest
system.
10.9.4 All personnel working at the site should be familiar with the rescue
procedures.
DRAFT 38
10.10 Fall Arrest Components (Harnesses, Lines and Lanyards)

10.10.1 A fall-arrest harness is an assembly of interconnected shoulder and
leg straps with or without a body belt designed to spread the load over the
body and to prevent the wearer from falling out of the assembly.
10.10.2 A lanyard is a line used, usually as part of a lanyard assembly, to
connect a fall-arrest harness to an anchorage point or static line.
10.10.3 A lanyard assembly should be as short as reasonably practicable
and the working length not more then 2 meters.
10.10.4 A fall-arrest static line is a horizontal or vertical line for a ladder fall-
arrest system. The line is connected to a fixed anchorage point at each
end, to which a lanyard can be attached. The line can be made of metal
tube, metal rod, steel wire rope, synthetic webbing or synthetic rope.
10.10.5 A personal energy absorber is used in conjunction with a fall-arrest
harness and lanyard to reduce deceleration force imposed by a suddenly
arrested fall and correspondingly reduces loading on the anchorage. The
energy absorber may be a separate item or manufactured into the lanyard.
10.10.6 A ladder belt is a belt connected to a lanyard which is attached to a
ladder fall-arrest device.
10.10.7 A ladder fall arrest device is a device which travels along a fall-
arrest static line, parallel to a ladder and locks to the line when loaded.
The device can only be loaded in the direction of the line.
10.10.8 Further information for standards of safety harnesses and
anchorage can be obtained from Singapore Standard SS402 : Part 1 :
1997 Specification for Industrial Safety Belts and Harnesses; Part 1:
General Requirements and Singapore Standard SS402 : Part 2 : 1997 -
Industrial Belts and Harnesses; Part 2: Permanent Anchor Requirements.
DRAFT 39
10.11 Inspection of Faults and Conditions

10.11.1 The inspection of fall arrest systems by a competent person should
include the following:
The rope or webbing including the anchorage lines (e.g. inspecting
for any defects or damage and checking the anchorage);
The fall arrest system harness body (e.g. inspecting for any
damage to the mounting ring or the body, checking the activation of
the fall-arrest indicator and that the labels are present);
The locking mechanisms and rope guides (e.g. inspecting the
visible rope guides for excessive wear and checking that the rope
runs freely through the anchorage and that the locking mechanism
works properly); and
The hardware (e.g. checking that the snap hooks or links work
properly).
10.11.2 When doing pre-use checks for lanyards and flexible anchorage
lines, the competent person performing the inspection should pay
particular attention to the following:
Cuts and frays;
Stitching;
Discoloration (sign of chemical or UV damage);
Heat glazing / burns;
Dirt, oil, grease;
Age;
Flattening / thinning; and
Lumps.
10.11.3 When doing pre-use checks for connectors, the competent person
performing the inspection should take note of:
Obvious damage (bent, twisted, corroded, worn etc);
Rust;
Cuts / serrations; and
Functionality of locking mechanisms.
DRAFT 40
10.11.4 When doing pre-use checks for shock absorbers, the competent
person should take note of any:
Signs of activation; and
Wear and tear of point of attachment.
Part 11 Ladders and Step Platforms

11.1 Ladders and Step Platforms
11.1.1 Ladders should be set up on a level area on firm footing and the base
should be located a distance from the wall approximately a quarter of the
vertical height of the ladder.
Fig 11.1 The ladder on the left shows the correct positioning of a ladder.
11.1.2 Where a ladder is used as a means of communication or as a working

place, adequate handholds should be provided to a height of at least one
meter above the place of landing of the highest rung to be reached by the
feet of any person working on the ladder.
DRAFT 41
11.1.3 Anyone working on ladders should maintain three points of contact at all
times, e.g. two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot.
Fig 11.2 Three points of contact with the

ladder should be maintained at all times, i.e.
two feet and one hand, two hands and one
foot or two feet and the frontal D ring on the
harness attached to the arrest/restraint line
or inertia reel. Tools and materials should
not be carried by hand. They should be in a
tool belt or side pouch.
11.1.4 Other means of preventing falls may be necessary in association with the
use of ladders where a risk assessment shows that additional protection is
necessary. The practice where permanent ladders are fitted with
protective back guards illustrates one possible solution. Pole straps may
be necessary while working from ladders. They should be inspected daily
when in use.
11.1.5 If the ladder is more than 3 meters in length, it should be securely fixed
(e.g. ladder lashing). If it is impracticable to do so, a person should be
stationed at the base of the ladder to prevent the ladder from slipping or
falling.
DRAFT 42
11.2 Portable Ladders

11.2.1 Ladders should be used as a means of access to or egress from a work
area and not as a work platform.
11.2.2 Step and trestle ladders should only be used when they are in the fully
open position. A step ladder may be used in the closed position by leaning
it against a support. However, care should be taken to ensure that only the
front stiles carry the load. Only trestle ladders are to be used to support
any platform upon which a person has to work.
11.3 Step Platform

11.3.1 A commercially available step platform is a safer alternative to a
stepladder especially when the task involves extended periods working at
height or with restricted vision (e.g. welding). A step platform is more
stable and provides a much larger work surface than a stepladder.
Fig 11.3 A step platform can provide a stable work surface.
43
11.4 Safety Guidelines For Ladders

11.4.1 Observe the following safety guidelines when using ladders:
Do not handle or use ladders where the workers or the ladder may
make contact with power lines, or use metal or reinforced metal
ladders in the vicinity of live electrical equipment;
Do not set up ladders in passageways, doorways, driveways or other
places where a person, vehicle or crane lifted load can hit it. (if the use
of ladder is unavoidable, erect a barrier or lock the door shut or as a
last resort, a person standing at the base);
Do not use the step ladder near the edge of an open floor or on
scaffolding to gain extra height; if the ladder topples, the worker could
fall over the edge;
Do not carry materials and tools by hand when ascending or
descending the ladder. Materials or tools which cannot be safely
secured on the workers belt should be independently transferred or
hoisted to the work station;
Do not work on the ladder for more then 30 minutes;
Do not use a ladder for heavy or strenuous work;
Do not overreach when working on the ladder;
Do not do work that will impose a side loading on a ladder unless the
ladder is secured;
Do not work directly over other workers work areas;
Do not allow anyone else to be on the ladder at the same time;
Do not use ladders in very windy or wet conditions; and
Do not use the ladder unless slip resistant footwear is being worn.
11.4.2 When securing a ladder:
Ensure that the ladder is on firm ground or spread the load (e.g. place
a board at the bottom of the ladder);
Tie the ladder to a suitable point making sure that both stiles are tied;
44
DRAFT
Fig 11.4 A ladder with both stiles secure.
If this is not possible, then securely wedge the ladder e.g. against a
wall;
If none of the above can be achieved, foot the ladder (footing is the last
resort and should be avoided if other means of access can be used).
Fig 11.5 Footing the ladder.
11.4.3 Do not use ladders with any of the following faults:

Timber stiles that are warped, splintered, cracked or bruised;
Metal stiles which are twisted, bent, kinked, crushed, or with crack
welds or damaged feet;
Rungs; steps, treads or top plates which are missing, worn or loose;
Tie rods missing, broken or loose;
Ropes, braces or brackets which are missing, broken or worn; and
Timber members which are covered with opaque paint or other
treatment that could disguise faults in the timber.
11.4.4 Ladders can be checked for serviceability by;
Taking each end of the ladder in turn and trying to push the stiles apart
and then together;
Movement indicates insecure rungs or loose tie rods;
DRAFT
Laying the ladder flat, raising one end and attempting to push one stile
while pulling the other. If the stiles move relative to each other, the
rungs are loose; and
Tapping timber rungs with a mallet. A dull sound is an indication of a
defective rung.
44
Part 12 Hazards of Working on Rooftop

12.1 Fragile/Brittle Roofing
12.1.1 Fragile and brittle roofs are those constructed from molded or fabricated
material such as cellulose cement roof sheets; glass; fiberglass; acrylic or
other similar synthetic material used either to sheath a roof or within a
roof, which are likely to endanger a person who stands upon them.
12.1.2 Fall arrest systems and devices should be worn by all workers engaged in
the removal of fragile material unless the perimeter of the roof is guarded
by any of the following:
A solid balustrade;
Scaffolding; or
A guardrail one meter above the roof level with mid rail and toe
board at the perimeter.
12.2 Work on Fragile or Brittle Roofing Materials

12.2.1 If a person is required to work on or from a roof of material that can break
easily, snap or shatter or is weak or perishable, the employer, or the
person who has control of the workplace must ensure:
The person is informed that there is fragile or brittle roofing;
Safe access to the work area is provided to enable workers to step
directly onto a safe platform or area;
Work is carried out from a safe working platform that is located and
constructed to allow work to be performed safely;
An adequate fall arrest system is installed and used;
There is another person present at all times when work is being
performed on a brittle roof in case there is an emergency;
Training and instruction should be provided to workers on precautions
to be taken;
Training in rescue techniques has been provided and rescue
equipment is readily available for use at the workplace;
45
Warning signs are displayed at access points to any work area where
fragile material is present;
Warning signs are fixed securely in a position where they will be clearly
visible to persons accessing the working area; and
Before the roof is removed, the brittle or fragile areas are identified and
the stability of the structure and soundness of the roof is assessed as
part of the risk management process.
Fig 12.1 Left: Severe deterioration of roofing

materials may not be readily apparent from
the upper surface. Inspect the underside of
brittle roofing materials for hazards.
Fig 12.2 Below left: Danger signs to be fixed

at points of access to the roof.
Fig 12.3 Below right: Broken sheets are a

severe hazard. Many old roofs have no wire
mesh under brittle sheets.
46
12.3 Maintenance or Repairs of Fragile or Brittle Roofing

12.3.1 Where it is necessary for maintenance or repairs to be carried out on a
roof surface constructed from fragile materials, the employer of those
persons should:
Inspect the under-side of the work area to determine the extent of
fragile material, presence of safety mesh and the structural soundness
of the work area;
Provide temporary walkways of at least 500 millimeter width with edge
protection as a means of access to and egress from any work area,
where permanent walkways are not provided;
Provide timber cleats on temporary walkways where the slope of a
walkway exceeds 7 or one vertical to eight horizontal. The walkway
should be secured adequately;
Provide temporary roof ladders or crawl boards of sufficient strength,
where any person is required to carry out work on or adjacent to any
part of a sloping roof sheathed in fragile material;
Provide individual fall-arrest systems and devices for any person
required to work on or adjacent to any fragile materials, when safety
meshes, safety nets or similar fall arrest systems have not been
provided. Safety harnesses should be attached by an individual fall-
arrest device to a static line positioned above the ridge line or an
individual anchorage point; and
Provide training and instruction in the correct use of fall arrest and
ensure that employees understand the information.
47

CP For Prevention of Falls - Draft

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CP For Prevention of Falls - Draft

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Code of Practice for Prevention of Falls DRAFT

SECTION A: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS .........................................................1

PART 1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................1

SECTION B: FALL CONTROL MEASURES ......................................................17

PART 6 ACCESS TO AND EGRESS FROM W ORK AREAS .......................................17

6.1 Access and Egress Risk and Assessment ........................................17

11.3 Step Platform ....................................................................................43

Section A: General Requirements

1.4 Terms and Definitions

Part 2 Risk Management

2.2 Employee Engagement

2.2.3 Many workplaces employ people with non-English speaking backgrounds.

2.3 Hazard Identification

2.4 Assessing and Analyzing Risks

2.5 Risk Control

Figure 2.1: Hierarchy of Control

2.8 Engineering Control

2.8.2 Section B provides detailed descriptions of the following engineering risk

2.9 Administrative Controls

2.9.6 Administrative controls may also be used to support other control

No Entry Areas (to be shown as boxed out)

2.10 Use of Personal Protective Equipment

2.12 Maintaining and Re-evaluation of Controls

3.1 A competent person should be appointed to provide proper supervision to

3.4 It is essential for those in supervisory roles to ensure that :

Part 4 Instruction and Training

In house training programmes designed to address specific needs,

Correct selection, fitting, use, care, maintenance and storage of fall

Part 5 Emergency Response

5.2 Rescue Operations - Fall Arrest Systems

injuries such as suspension trauma which can occur when a person is

Section B: Fall Control Measures

6.2 Access and Egress Safety Considerations

6.3 Roof Access

6.4 Guarding of Holes and Openings

Part 7 Edge Protection

Fig 7.2 Stairways must have handrails and toe

Part 8 Fall Protection Systems

8.2 Tower Scaffolds

Fig 8.2 Mobile scaffold, access ladder and

8.2.2 A tower scaffold should be erected by a competent person.

Tower scaffolds must be inspected by a competent person before its

8.3 Elevating Work Platforms/Hoists

8.3.2 Elevating work platforms consist of a platform surrounded by an edge

8.4 Suspended Gondola

8.5 Mast Climbing Work Platforms

8.6 Suspended Cages

Part 9 Work Positioning Systems

Fig 9.1 Operator using an industrial rope access system.

9.2 Travel Restraint Systems

Part 10 Fall Arrest System

10.2 Disadvantages of Safety Nets

10.3 Safety Nets and Stakeholders Responsibilities

should be used. If this is not possible, scaffolds and fall arrest

10.4 Catch Platforms

Fig 10.1 An example of a

10.5 Individual Fall Arrest Systems

10.6 Fall Arrest System Limitation

10.7 Instruction and Training for Workers Using Individual Fall-arrest

10.8 Hazards of Fall Arrest Systems

10.9 Rescue of Workers Who are Using Individual Fall-arrest Systems

10.10 Fall Arrest Components (Harnesses, Lines and Lanyards)

10.11 Inspection of Faults and Conditions