3 Essential Resources for Working at Height

Whether you’re fixing a roof or changing a lightbulb, working at height is a complex procedure. The high risk nature of the work makes it a tough process to plan for construction employers and employees alike. Keep reading for some important resources that cover the essential issues of working at height.

Risk assessment

First things first, before beginning any work at height, a thorough risk assessment has to be taken out. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website has a handy guide to help with risk assessments.

An important point, it stresses, is to avoid working at height wherever possible – “assembly at ground level” is one example of how to minimise the time spent up a ladder or on a platform.

Using the right equipment

WAIT (Work at height Access equipment Information Toolkit) is another useful tool provided by the HSE. Follow the link below and you’ll find a set of questions about the job in hand, relating to:

·         Height

·         Estimated duration

·         Time between equipment movement

·         Restriction of access

·         Level of activity involved in the work

·         Whether or not the equipment needs to be freestanding

If you answer these questions based on the job you need to do, the WAIT Toolkit will provide you with solutions as to which equipment would be suitable.

Rescue Plan

For some working at height jobs, the most suitable option is powered access equipment. This involves much larger machinery than standard ladders, and consequently requires a greater deal of preparation. Mobile Elevating Work Platforms, for instance, can be used to raise a worker – or workers – much higher than any ladder would be suitable to reach.

If anything does go wrong while working at height on such large equipment, it’s crucial that you have a rescue plan in place. The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) provides guidance on rescue plans. It’s specifically tailored for working on powered access equipment. It also outlines what action to take in a variety of different emergency situations.

Get the right equipment

Keeping in the know the correct equipment and safety procedures is essential for both employers and employees. There is an abundance of information out there, but these resources cover some of the most important points.

At Manchester Safety, we offer a range of rigorously tested products for working at height. From fall arrest equipment to our range of ladders, we have all the strong, durable equipment required for safe and efficient working. For any questions about our products, call our dedicated sales team on 01706 364 943.