Falls from height are the leading cause of workplace fatalities and a major cause of serious injuries. Therefore, it is essential that any work at height be properly planned, supervised, and carried out by competent personnel to ensure it is performed safely and in accordance with current regulations.

Unfortunately, falls from heights, both in the workplace and at home, do happen, but most of them could have been completely avoided with some care and attention.

Here are 10 tips to help you reduce the chance of falling when working at heights.

1. Plan and evaluate

Before undertaking any work at height, conduct a thorough risk assessment. Identify the hazards, plan how to eliminate them, and choose the safest way to complete the task.

2. Eliminate whenever possible

If there is ever a safer alternative to performing a task that doesn't involve working at heights, choose it. You should always prioritize eliminating the need to work at heights altogether whenever possible.

3. Use the appropriate equipment

Always use the most appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the job, ensuring it is properly inspected, maintained, and meets safety standards. Make sure you are familiar with the correct way to use the equipment.

4. Guardrails and personal fall arrest systems

When working at heights, prioritize guardrails to protect you from slips and falls. If a fall is ever possible, ensure a properly adjusted fall arrest system is used at all times. All ouraccess towershave a handrail installed, so be sure to use it!

5. Competition is key

Only fully trained and authorized workers should work at heights. Proper training ensures that workers understand the risks, develop a plan to eliminate any potential safety issues, and then carry out the work with that plan in mind.

6. Communication is crucial

Clear communication is vital in any workplace. If you work with other people, everyone involved should be fully aware of the plan, potential hazards, and safety protocols.

7. Climatic conditions

Adverse weather conditions can make working at heights extremely unsafe. Always avoid working at heights during strong winds, rain, or snow, as these can increase the risk of slips and falls.

8. Stay Organized and Tidy

Try to keep your work area clean, clear, and organized. Clutter, debris, and spills can create slip and trip hazards that could cause you to fall.

9. Tiredness leads to carelessness

Do not attempt to work at heights if you feel tired or unwell. When working in adverse weather conditions, you will not carefully consider your safety or ensure you are not taking unnecessary risks.

10. Periodic inspections

You must regularly inspect ladders, scaffolding, access towers, and PPE to ensure they are in good working order and have not been damaged. Damaged or worn equipment can compromise its integrity.

If you take these 10 tips, into account, you will drastically reduce your chances suffering a fall.

Contact us  to learn about the available options and which one best suits the work to be done