06 Apr Working at heights regulations in QLD
Employees working at any height or level are at risk of falls, which can cause serious harm, injury, and even death. This is why height safety equipment and regulations are so important: to protect those at risk. Employers are then responsible for assessing risk and mitigating it.
But what are the specific regulations for working at heights in Queensland? How can you assess risk, and what steps should you be taking to manage and avoid it? In this article, we’ll explore in-depth the height safety regulations for Queensland workers so you know what to expect.
To learn more about height safety regulations or to get help meeting Queensland’s safety requirements, contact our team at Australian Height Safety Services today.
Queensland’s height safety regulations
Regulations are not recommendations; they are requirements that every workplace in Queensland must comply with. The ‘Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011’ outlines a five-level hierarchy of control that should be followed, step-by-step, to reduce risk.
Likewise, these regulations also stipulate that all at-height workers must be fully trained in height safety equipment and procedures. This includes any worker who steps foot on a ladder or slightly elevated platform, not just multi-storey projects.
Further, this legislation also outlines employer responsibilities. This requires employers to take steps to protect workers by supplying personal protective equipment (PPE) and fall arrest systems.
Managing risk
To manage fall risks, employers must follow these four steps to thoroughly identify areas of concern and treat them with the right amount of care.
- Identify the fall hazards that can put workers and other people at risk.
- Assess how likely it is for a fall to occur.
- Control the risk with the five-level hierarchy of control.
- Review and monitor this risk to update safety measures when required.
- Ensure staff are documenting risk management procedures to keep records.
The five-level hierarchy of control
The five-level hierarchy of control should be utilised once a risk has been identified and assessed. Each level helps to mitigate the potential for falls and protect workers from harm.
1. Level 1
In this stage, employers should attempt to eliminate the risk entirely. If possible, workers should try to complete tasks from ground level. If this is not possible, employers will need to take the next steps.
2. Level 2
People working at height should have passive fall prevention methods in place. This includes roof guard rails, roof walkway systems, and other edge protection measures.
3. Level 3
If working at height is not avoidable, employers should implement a work positioning system. This can help to limit worker movement at height, reducing the chances of entering areas with fall risks.
4. Level 4
Employ fall arrest systems, such as harnesses, to catch a person after a fall. These should be employed any time working at height is necessary. Though reducing the risk of falls is important, a fall arrest system can help protect workers from injury after a fall has occurred.
5. Level 5
The final step is to utilise ladders and administrative controls in a way that reduces the necessity for working at heights. For instance, ladders should only be used to access a roof access hatch or other high work areas, rather than standing on them for long stretches of time.
Likewise, administrative systems should proactively manage workers. Utilise work permits or reduce the amount of time workers are allowed to be at height.
Height safety measures and equipment
Mitigating fall risk is about using more than just guardrails. The right equipment can help you manage height hazards and protect your workers, but what type of equipment should you use?
1. Roof anchor points
Roof anchor points are anchors that are bolted into place on a roof. A fall safety harness is then attached to the anchor to keep it securely in place. This can help workers stay securely attached to the roof, preventing them from falling.
2. Static lines
Static lines are similar to anchor points. However, instead of a single anchor with an attached harness, two anchors are bolted into place on either side of a roof. A static line of strong cabling is then attached from one anchor to the other. This static line allows workers to walk and move across a roof without having to change their harnesses.
3. Roof walkways
Roof walkways are incredibly useful when it comes to managing the risk of falls. They can provide additional grip for workers who need to walk across sloping surfaces. Aluminium roof walkways are a popular choice, as they are lightweight and durable.
When combined with railings, they can also help to partially ‘insulate’ the worker from the current height and reduce the chance of falls.
Create a safer working environment
Not sure where to start? At Australian Height Safety Services, we take pride in providing and installing reliable fall safety equipment in Queensland and all across Australia. With our support, you can manage fall risk and protect your workers no matter how high they may have to work. Reach out to our team today to discuss your height safety needs.
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