Safe Working at Height Standard - MIRMgatemirmgate.com.au/docs/mhs/08/57087.pdf5.5 Planner / Scheduler ... Workbox ... reaching a position at which there is a risk of a free or limited

WMC Environment, Health & Safety Management System

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Safe Working at Height Major Hazard Standard

MHS-08 Site Standard Owner : Maintenance Manager - KNSC DocsOpen Ref: 57087, 14/04/2005

Uncontrolled copy – check web for latest revision

Revision Reviewed Description of Changes Date Approved

3 D Batchler Major Review and Rewrite 15/04/2005 M Webb

2 A Barfield Revised 16/10/2001 P Plavina

1 First Issue 19/06/2000 K Thomas

Major Hazard Standard – Safe Work at Heights

DocsOpen Ref: 57087 Last Updated: 15/04/05 © WMC Resources Ltd Page 2 of 39

CONTENTS 1 PURPOSE ...................................................................................................................................... 3 2 SCOPE........................................................................................................................................... 3 3 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 3 4 DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................. 3 5 RESPONSIBILITIES........................................................................................................................ 4

5.1 Registered Manager................................................................................................................. 4 5.2 Department Managers .............................................................................................................. 5 5.3 Superintendent ........................................................................................................................ 5 5.4 Supervisor / Team Leader ........................................................................................................ 5 5.5 Planner / Scheduler.................................................................................................................. 6 5.6 Emergency Response Coordinator............................................................................................ 6 5.7 Employees .............................................................................................................................. 6

6 TRAINING AND COMPETENCY ...................................................................................................... 6 6.1 Requirements .......................................................................................................................... 6

7 RISK ASSESSMENT....................................................................................................................... 7 8 FALL PROTECTION PPE ................................................................................................................ 7 9 FALL INJURY PREVENTION SYSTEMS .......................................................................................... 8 10 EQUIPMENT............................................................................................................................... 8 11 WORK PLATFORMS, SCAFFOLD AND ACCESS EQUIPMENT.................................................... 8 12 ROOFS, CEILING SPACES AND OPEN HOLES........................................................................... 8 13 DESIGN ...................................................................................................................................... 8 14 DROPPED OBJECTS .................................................................................................................. 9 15 APPENDICES ............................................................................................................................10

Hierarchy of Controls..........................................................................................................................11 Training and Competency...................................................................................................................12 Fall Injury Prevention Systems............................................................................................................14 Personal Protective Equipment ...........................................................................................................17 Mobile Work Platforms .......................................................................................................................20 Scaffold .............................................................................................................................................22 Fixed Platforms and Walkways ...........................................................................................................25 Access Equipment .............................................................................................................................26 Barricades .........................................................................................................................................29 Workbox ............................................................................................................................................30 Roofs ................................................................................................................................................32 Ceiling Spaces ...................................................................................................................................33 Material Falling From Height ...............................................................................................................34 Open Holes .......................................................................................................................................35 General Requirements For Rope Systems...........................................................................................36 Approval To Work At Height................................................................................................................38



1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this standard is to eliminate potential harm to all employees, contractors and visitors on all WMC sites resulting from persons falling from one level to another or being affected by falling objects.

2 SCOPE

This standard applies to:

§ All WMC operating sites and offices.

§ All employees, contractors and visitors.

This standard sets out minimum requirements. Where a local regulatory or industry standard gives more stringent requirements, then that standard shall be used.

3 INTRODUCTION

This standard requires that a system of work for prevention of falls from height is established and maintained.

This can be achieved through:

§ where practicable, the elimination of the need to work where there is the risk of a fall.

§ conducting Risk Assessments before the commencement of work and at any time the scope of work changes or the risk of a fall increases.

§ selection of appropriate control measures using the hierarchy of controls.

§ ensuring all equipment used is fit-for-purpose.

§ ensuring all persons responsible for, or performing work, where there is a risk of falling, are competent in the correct use of the site management systems for the prevention of falls.

§ development of procedures for the design, construction, use and disposal of all equipment that supports or lifts a person at height.

§ the use of fall arrest equipment as the last option for a control measure (after all other control measures have been explored and deemed to be inappropriate) where it is not practicable to eliminate the risk of a fall.

4 DEFINITIONS

Work at Height

“Work at Height” is defined as whenever people are at risk of falling from, into or through one level to another.

Fall Injury Prevention Systems (FIPS)

A system designed to arrest or prevent a persons fall from one level to another whilst minimising the risk of injuries or harm during the fall. FIPS include fall restraint systems, fall arrest systems, catch platforms, scaffolding, safety nets and safety mesh.

Total Restraint



A situation where a fall is not possible achieved through control of a persons movement by means of a combination of a belt or harness, a line and a line anchorage which will physically prevent the person from reaching a position at which there is a risk of a free or limited free fall.

Restrained Fall

A fall or the arrest of a fall where the person falling is partially restrained by a device such as a pole strap, or is sliding down a slope on which it is normally possible to walk without the assistance of a handrail or handline.

Limited free fall

A fall or the arrest of a fall where the fall distance before the fall arrest system begins to take any loading, does not exceed 600mm either vertically or on a slope on which it is not possible to walk without the assistance of a handrail or handline.

Free Fall

A fall or the arrest of a fall where the distance before the fall arrest system begins to take any loading, is in excess of 600mm either vertically or on a slope on which it is not possible to walk without assistance of a handrail or handline.

Anchorage Point

A secure point of attachment on a structure to which an approved safety harness or fall restraint / fall arrest device, or lanyard, or lanyard assembly or static line may be secured.

Approved Safety Harness

A full body harness of the parachute style with as a minimum a fall arrest attachment point at the top dorsal position, which was manufactured and complies with AS1891.

Lanyard

A lanyard is used to connect an approved safety harness to an anchorage point or static line in situations where there is a risk of a fall or when used in restraint mode to prevent a fall. Lanyards can be either adjustable or fixed length and incorporate the use of a shock absorber.

Static Line (Permanent or Temporary)

A horizontal safety line or rail system to which a lanyard may be attached and which is designed to arrest a free fall. (as per AS 1891.2)

Approval to work at height

A document authorising a person to perform a task where it has been deemed necessary to work in a fall arrest harness and lanyard in a situation where there is a potential for free fall. The Authority is completed by the individual doing the work, reviewed by the Emergency Response Coordinator and is authorised by the relevant Superintendent.

5 RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1 Registered Manager

The Registered Manager is accountable for:



§ providing a safe system of work where persons are not exposed to the hazards of falling from any height or from being affected by falling objects by ensuring that where practicable, the requirement to work where there is the risk of a fall or a falling object is eliminated.

§ ensuring emergency response persons are trained and competent to perform emergency rescue from height.

5.2 Department Managers

Department Managers or equivalent are responsible for:

§ ensuring that (where the requirement to work where there is a risk of a fall cannot be eliminated), the work shall not be undertaken without there being adequate fall prevention or fall protection measures in place.

§ ensuring compliance with this standard to control the purchase and/or hire of plant, equipment and PPE used for fall prevention or fall protection.

§ ensuring compliance with all applicable current statutory requirements.

5.3 Superintendent

Superintendents or equivalent are responsible for:

§ ensuring that information, instruction, training and supervision of all personnel is provided to enable them to perform their work in such a manner that they are not exposed to the hazards of falling from height or falling objects.

§ ensuring risk assessments are conducted by competent personnel before the commencement of work and appropriate control measures are selected when there is a requirement to work at height.

§ ensuring that there is a system to regularly inspect and maintain in proper working condition all plant, equipment & PPE used for fall prevention or fall protection (as per AS1891)

§ ensuring that fall arrest harnesses are inspected, preferably by the manufacturer, after any fall before being placed back in service (unless the fall was a free fall in which case the harness shall be destroyed after consultation with the manufacturer. Note: only after the incident investigation has been completed).

§ ensuring that as far as practicable, persons are never exposed to free fall conditions.

§ Authorising an “Approval to Work at Height” before the commencement of work where it has been deemed necessary to work in a fall arrest harness and lanyard in a situation where there is a potential for free fall.

§ auditing the work at height systems on a regular basis.

5.4 Supervisor / Team Leader

Supervisors / Team Leaders are responsible for:

§ establishing where practicable, systems of work which eliminate the requirement to work at height.

§ Ensuring all personnel know and follow established procedures for work at height

§ Ensuring THA’s are developed and approved prior to the commencement of work and checking that required controls are in place when work is being undertaken.

§ ensuring risk assessments are re-validated at any time the scope of work changes or the risk of a fall or falling object increases.

§ ensuring only trained, competent personnel deploy fall restraint or fall protection controls where these have been identified as the appropriate control measures.

§ ensuring an “Approval to Work at Height” is completed and approved by the relevant superintendent prior to work commencing.



§ ensuring that fall protection equipment is:

tested and certified for use

inspected by the user before use

re-tested & certified for use following a fall or where inspection has shown evidence of excessive wear or mechanical malfunction

and that testing & inspection are only be carried out by competent persons.

5.5 Planner / Scheduler

Planners or Schedulers are responsible for:

§ ensuring that the requirements of this standard are included during the planning of the task (including maintenance shutdown’s) by considering the hierarchy of control for the work being planned and making provision for appropriate controls to be available. (eg. Elevated Work Platform, Scaffolding)

5.6 Emergency Response Coordinator

Emergency Response Coordinators or equivalent are responsible for:

§ ensuring emergency services personnel are trained in rescue from height techniques specific to their site.

§ ensuring appropriate rescue equipment is available for performing a rescue at height

§ co-authorising the Authority to work at height, including the task specific rescue plan

5.7 Employees

All employees are responsible for ensuring they:

§ Participate in the development of the Task Hazard Analysis (THA) and comply fully with its requirements

§ prepare / review the “Approval to Work at Height” (as required)

§ review the rescue plan (as required)

§ inspect all equipment intended to be used as a component of a Fall Injury Prevention System prior to use.

§ do not commence work unless all control measures identified in the “Approval to Work at Height” and THA are in place

§ re-sign the THA if the scope of work or conditions change or the task ceases for any reason for an extended period of time and recommences.

6 TRAINING AND COMPETENCY

6.1 Requirements

All persons responsible for work carried out where there is a risk of falling shall be competent in the correct use of the systems for the prevention of falls.

Persons who are exposed to the risk of falling shall:

§ be able to participate in the risk assessment of the work

§ know and understand the control measures for fall prevention

§ be competent in the correct use of those control measures.



§ have a current license, ticket or certificate of competency for the equipment being used as a control measure

Refer to Appendix B for the detailed requirements.

7 RISK ASSESSMENT

All persons required to perform work at height must understand and actively participate in the WMC risk management processes.

Controls shall be implemented as per the hierarchy of controls listed in appendix A

8 FALL PROTECTION PPE

Personal protective equipment must only be considered as a last resort and only if all other control measures are impracticable, unavailable or will introduce further hazards to the work. The use of fall prevention PPE must be as indicated in Appendix D of this Standard.

§ Free fall – fall arrest situations can only be considered if all other control measures have been considered first and prove to be impractical, and only if there is a minimum of 6m clearance below the anchor point (or a minimum of 7m clearance in the case of securing to a static line). Where these minimum clearances cannot be achieved, alternative fall prevention or fall protection controls shall be implemented

§ There shall be a system to ensure that any fall-arrest system used comprises of items that are compatible with one another

§ In all cases of a free fall situation being determined as the only available control measure, the Superintendent in charge of the work area is to be contacted prior to work commencing to gain his/her express permission via the issue of a work at height authority to allow the work to commence using free fall arrest systems (excluding working from an elevating work platform). Appendix P contains details on approvals to work at height

§ Persons shall not use fall protection PPE unless they have been trained and deemed competent to do so. – refer to appendix B

§ An Emergency Rescue plan shall be developed PRIOR to any work being conducted at height when using a free fall, fall-arrest system.

§ Emergency Services personnel shall be contacted PRIOR to each situation requiring work at height using free fall, fall-arrest systems to ensure that they are aware that there is a risk of a fall and to assist with the development of the rescue plan. The rescue plan must have emergency recovery procedures that mitigate the hazards associated with harness hang syndrome sometimes known as suspension trauma.

§ Emergency Services personnel shall plan, establish and rehearse emergency height rescue procedures.



9 FALL INJURY PREVENTION SYSTEMS See Appendix 3 Regulation 3.48.

Each site shall have suitable Fall Injury Prevention Systems designed to arrest a person’s fall from one level to another whilst minimising the risk of injuries or harm during the fall. Specific requirements for Fall Injury Prevention Systems are given in Appendix C.

10 EQUIPMENT

There shall be a system to ensure that all equipment that lifts or supports a person working at height is recorded on a register that contains the following details:

§ Identification Number

§ Maintenance History

§ Inspection Results

§ Modification made since purchase / commissioning

§ Purchase and disposal dates

§ Corrective actions

11 WORK PLATFORMS, SCAFFOLD AND ACCESS EQUIPMENT

Work platforms position persons and equipment so that those persons can work safely. Platforms may be either permanent or temporary. Appendix G provides details and specific requirements for work platforms. Appendix F provides details and specific requirements for scaffold

Access equipment is used to access work platforms and may be either temporary or permanent. Access equipment should not be used as work platforms. Appendix H provides details and specific requirements on Access equipment.

Work Boxes are specifically designed to enable persons to be transported and perform work whilst suspended at height from a crane. Appendix J provides guidance and detailed requirements for work boxes

Elevated Work Platforms shall be designed, operated and maintained as per the requirements of appendix E

12 ROOFS, CEILING SPACES AND OPEN HOLES

Working on roofs, in ceilings and around open holes present risk to the safety or persons performing such work. Appendix K, L and N provide guidance and detailed requirements on these activities respectively.

13 DESIGN

New facilities shall be designed in accordance with the requirements of WMC Group Projects Standard Engineering Specification for Fabrication and Erection of Steelwork (SES105).



14 DROPPED OBJECTS

Control measures shall be in place to prevent objects from falling and causing injury or damage. Such controls include, but are not limited to:

§ Containment sheeting

§ toeboards

§ tool lanyards

§ lift boxes

§ loads secured to cranes and hoists

§ catch platforms

§ gantries

The use of dedicated barricades shall be in accordance with the requirements of Appendix I. Further guidance on preventing materials falling from height is provided in appendix M



15 APPENDICES

Appendix A Hierarchy of Controls

Appendix B Training and Competency

Appendix C Fall Injury Prevention Systems

Appendix D Personal Protective Equipment

Appendix E Elevated Work Platforms

Appendix F Scaffold

Appendix G Fixed Platforms / Walkways

Appendix H Access Equipment

Appendix I Barricades

Appendix J Work Box

Appendix K Roofs

Appendix L Ceiling Spaces

Appendix M Material Falling from Height

Appendix N Open Holes

Appendix O General Requirements for Rope Systems

Appendix P Approval to Work at Height



APPENDIX A

Hierarchy of Controls

WORKING AT HEIGHTS

Users of fall prevention equipment need to be aware how these systems are placed within the hierarchy of control for fall prevention, so that an assessment can be made as to whether the highest practicable level of protection is being applied in a particular case. The following explains this hierarchy of control.

Elimination - Eliminate the need to access the fall-risk area, e.g. by locating or relocating items requiring inspection, maintenance or other attention, elsewhere.

Substitution - Provide alternative means of access to the point or item to which access must be made which avoids the risk of a fall e.g. walkways.

Engineering/Isolation - Barricade or enclose the fall-risk so that it cannot be reached hard bunting, handrail scaffolding.

Administrative controls are required for all steps; Take Time Take Charge, THA, SWP, “Approval to Work at Height”, training etc.

Fall Prevention PPE - Must only be considered as a last resort and only if all other control measures are impracticable, unavailable or will introduce further hazards to the work. Provide PPE which either prevents a fall or reduces risk or severity of a fall (the hierarchy of fall prevention options are described below).

FALL PREVENTION

When identifying personal fall prevention equipment as a control it shall be considered using the hierarchy below.

1) Fall Restraint

Equip operators with personal restraint equipment designed to allow access to work areas without encountering risk of a fall.

2) Work Positioning

Enclose or encapsulate operators in work positioning devices such as EWP, workboxes or support them by means of industrial rope access

3) Limited Free Fall

Equip operators with personal fall-arrest equipment which will not prevent a fall but will limit the distance and severity of the fall; inertia reels, retracting lanyards fall distance is < 600mm

4) Free Fall – LAST RESORT

Equip operators with personal fall arrest equipment which will not prevent a fall but minimise the risk of injury in the event of a fall maximum 2 metre free fall.



APPENDIX B

Training and Competency

No persons shall use any Fall Injury Prevention System unless they have completed appropriate training and been assessed as competent to do so.

Training in the use of personal protective equipment for working at heights within WMC shall be delivered in three components

AWARENESS

All personnel will receive Work at Heights awareness training. This training shall cover the safe access and egress of established ladders, scaffold or other such installed work platform that does not require the use of any personal protective equipment to eliminate the chance of a fall.

SAFE WORK AT HEIGHTS - THEORY

This training is the approved Safe Work at Heights package developed by the WMC approved provider. All personnel who may have a need to use any fall injury prevention system shall complete this training. All supervisors who supervise personnel using any fall injury prevention system shall also complete the theory component of this training.

SAFE WORK AT HEIGHTS - PRACTICAL

All personnel who may have a need to use any fall injury prevention system shall successfully complete a practical assessment to demonstrate competence in the safe use of the equipment. Participants must have successfully completed the theory component of the program prior to attending the practical component.

ASSESSMENT

Competence shall be assessed and confirmed by a person qualified and authorised for the purpose as detailed below. When assessing competence consideration should be given to an individual’s psychological and physical capacity to perform work at heights. All personnel must be re-assessed at a maximum of 2-yearly intervals.

TRAINER QUALIFICATIONS

The above training must be provided by a qualified workplace trainer and assessor who is competent in the use of fall injury prevention systems and authorised by the WMC approved Safe Work at Heights training provider.

Alternatively the training may be delivered by the WMC approved Safe Work at Heights training provider.

OTHER TRAINING RELATED TO SAFE WORK AT HEIGHTS

Mobile Work Platforms

No person shall operate any mobile work platform such as an EWP or Scissorlift, without having undertaken the appropriate training and been assessed as competent to use.

Personnel operating EWP’s must be in possession of a certificate of competency as described in the national certification standards.



WP Boom type elevating work platform

In the event a basket is fitted to an Integrated Tool carrier (IT) for use as a work platform, the training and assessment for the operator of the IT shall include the correct fitting and operation of the basket.

Scaffolding

Scaffolders must be in possession of a certificate of competency of the appropriate class for the scaffold work they are to perform as described in the national certification standards. These classes are listed below.

SB Basic scaffolding

SI Intermediate scaffolding

SA Advanced scaffolding

Rigging

Personnel performing dogging and rigging duties shall be in possession of a certificate of competency of the appropriate class for the work they undertake as described in the national certification standards. These classes are listed below:

DG Dogging

RB Basic rigging

RI Intermediate rigging

RA Advanced Rigging



APPENDIX C

Fall Injury Prevention Systems

ANCHOR POINTS

Anchor points are used to attach Fall Arrest harness worn by a person via a connecting lanyard. Anchor points used in Fall injury prevention systems shall meet the following specifications (minimum):

§ Total restraint - capable of withstanding a minimum of 6kN.

§ Restrained fall - capable of withstanding a minimum of 6kN

§ Limited free fall - capable of withstanding a minimum of 12kN

§ Free Fall - capable of withstanding a minimum of 15kN, or

§ Capable of withstanding a minimum of 21kN if two people are attached to the same anchor point.

Anchors for limited or total free fall shall be located above head height of the person and located in a central location (within 30 degrees from vertical) that prevents a pendulum swing.

Anchor points shall also have the required clearance below the worker for the type of system being employed. (Eg length of lanyard, + tear out distance, height of user + safety margin.)

Fall arrest anchor points that will be in place for a period of longer than one month shall be signposted in accordance with the requirements of AS 1891.4.2000 section 3.2.5. Ladder rungs shall not be used as anchor points. Handrail components shall not be used as anchor points.

Note: When considering the strength requirements for static lines, the anchor attachments to the structure shall also be considered.

The maintenance of anchor points shall be:

§ Pre-use inspection by the user.

§ For permanent anchors in any surface plant in general areas a 12 monthly integrity check via proof testing.

§ For permanent anchors in either the underground or an aggressive surface environment a 3 monthly integrity check via proof testing.

STATIC LINES

Static lines are used where a range of movement is required in one longitudinal direction. A typical example being whilst repairing or painting a roof where free movement along the roof is required but persons need to be prevented from falling off the edge of the roof. Static lines can be used as anchor points for either fall restraint or fall arrest equipment.

They shall be either:

§ Permanent 12mm diameter steel (generally stainless steel) cable attached to permanent anchors or;

§ Temporary systems that use 20mm diameter flexible rope that is suitable for such use. Ordinary rope shall not be used.

Anchor points for static lines shall be:

§ Designed, approved and checked after installation by a structural engineer



§ Designed in accordance with line anchor requirements of AS 1891-2 Horizontal life lines and rail systems.

A number of commercial temporary static line systems are available which include attachment and tensioning devices. Only those systems that comply with AS1891 shall be used.

Maintenance of static lines will depend on its frequency of use and where it is used. However:

§ For permanent static lines the minimum maintenance shall incorporate integrity checking of the cable and proof testing of the anchors every six months. Greater inspection frequency shall occur in aggressive environmental conditions.

§ For temporary static lines, all components shall be checked prior to use, paying particular attention to any fraying, cracking or cuts in the rope. The attachments shall be checked for distortion, cracks or sharp edges where the rope contact occurs.

§ Emergency response coordinators shall be consulted and involved in the installation and use of all static line systems.

LANYARDS

Lanyards are used to connect persons who are wearing either fall restraint or arrest equipment to an anchor point. There are several types, being fixed length, shock absorbing and inertia reel retractable, which are detailed in the section below. All lanyards shall comply with the relevant Australian Standard for their type.

Those using a lanyard shall ensure that it is suitable for the proposed use and that it will provide the required fall restraint or arrest.

Fixed length lanyards are used in either fall restraint or arrest situations. For fall restraint, the length needs to be such that at maximum length it prevents the person getting too close to any edge where the person could fall. For fall arrest, the summed length of the lanyard, the expanded shock absorber, the person and a 1 metre safety margin, does not exceed the height that the person can fall.

Shock absorbing lanyards can be used in either total restraint or free fall arrest situations. If used in free fall arrest mode the above calculation for sufficient clearances must be accounted for.

Endless loop lanyards (snake slings) are used to wrap around structural beams etc. in order to provide an anchor point for either fall restraint or arrest. An endless loop lanyard shall not be choked (one end threaded through the other) rather both ends shall be placed in the attachment device of the attaching lanyard.

Lanyards must be checked for compatibility of all components including the harness attachment point and anchor attachment point to prevent the potential for either crush out or roll out occurring.

All lanyards, with the exception of the endless loop, shall be fitted with either double acting snap lock hooks or screw gate karabiners.

It is important to inspect the work area where the lanyards will be used to ensure that they will not be damaged by sharp edge on beams or sheet steel, dangle in pools of water, oils or chemicals or that the hooks or karabiners do not become jammed up with dust or crushed rock.

The maintenance on these items shall be:

§ Pre-use visual inspection for cuts, abrasion, heat or oil or chemical damage and currency of operating life, which shall not exceed ten years from manufacture.

§ Pre-use check of the condition of the hook or karabiner to ensure that they operate freely, do not jamb open and are not bent or damaged in any manner.

§ For shock absorbing lanyards, a pre-use check that the shock absorber has not opened in any manner indicating that it has arrested a fall.



INERTIA REEL ARREST DEVICES

Inertia reel arrest lanyards range in size and type from the short fibre to the longer retracting wire type. All retracting lanyards shall comply with their relevant Australian Standard.

They are particularly suitable where good flexibility in a working area is required whilst still achieving the maximum of 30 degrees (from the vertical) angle for the mounting of fall arrest above a person wearing a fall arrest harness. They are advantageous where persons climb up and down a structure as part of their work tasks.

Inertia reels can only be used for fall restraint when the maximum reeled out length of the device does not exceed the distance to the edge where a person can fall. It is not acceptable to rely on the auto-locking mechanism to restrict a person in a fall restraint mode (eg Do not lock off and lean on the device).

Persons using an inertia reel device shall:

§ Conduct a pre-use inspection of the whole length of the inertia reel, checking for cuts and tears on fibre type and damaged, “bird caged” or broken wires on wire type devices.

§ Check the inspection tag to ensure that a formal inspection has occurred within the last 3 months.

§ Check for damage on the housing and cable or fibre entry point.

§ Check for the correct and immediate operation of the locking devise when a quick pull is applied to it.

The maintenance required on these items includes:

§ A formal and documented inspection each 3 months conducted by a competent person. Each fourth, 3 monthly inspection (i.e. annually) shall also involve an internal inspection of the device, again conducted by a competent person.

§ Tagging of the device to indicate that the inspection has occurred.

SAFETY CLIMBING SYSTEMS

Safety climbing systems are essentially a vertical static line that runs up the middle of the ladder. They must comply with AS1891.

They are generally used on long fixed ladders on items such as stacks, drill rigs, radio towers etc. A person wearing a suitable harness connects to the static line via a short lanyard and a running attachment device. In the event of the person losing their footing, the attachment device grabs the wire and stops the person falling.

Persons using such devices shall be:

§ Trained and deemed competent in the use of them paying particular attention to installing the running attachment device correctly.

§ Carry out a pre-use inspection of the running static line and continuous inspection as they climb.

The required maintenance on the system is the same as for static lines detailed above.

BELAY SYSTEMS

Belay systems are used either for emergency purposes or for specialised maintenance inspections. Whenever they are used for emergency purposes, their use is controlled by relevant emergency rescue procedures.

When used for specialised maintenance activities, competent and experienced contracting organisations are used to perform the required tasks after consultation with site emergency response coordinator to establish safe systems of work.



APPENDIX D

Personal Protective Equipment

PERSONAL FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT (TOTAL RESTRAINT)

Personal fall restraint equipment shall:

§ Comply with AS1891.1 and shall not be greater than ten years old

§ Be inspected prior to each and every use

§ Have a formal documented inspection performed by an authorised, competent person at intervals not exceeding 3 months

§ Only be attached to an anchor point meeting the requirements of Appendix C.

Typical uses include:

§ Fall restraint of underground miners inspecting an open stope edge

§ Persons working on a low angle pitched (not greater than 5 degrees) roof or within 2 metres of an open edge or opening

§ Any other location where persons are working within 2 metres of an edge where the fall from the height could result in an injury.

Persons using fall restraint equipment shall:

§ Have been trained and assessed as a competent user of such equipment

§ Perform a visual check on the fall restraint equipment prior to fitting it. Ensure that it has been fully inspected and tagged within the previous 3 months.

§ Perform a visual check on the lanyard for any cuts, abrasions or heat damage and if any faults are found tagged “Out of Service” and arrangements made for a competent person to conduct a formal inspection.

§ Perform a visual check on the attachment point that will be used and if found unsuitable, not use it as an anchor point.

§ Connect to the attachment point prior to undertaking any work activity.

§ Ensure that the diameter of the “D” hook on the belt exceeds the throat depth of the attachment hook on the lanyard to prevent “roll out”.

§ Only use a retractable lanyard where its maximum length does not allow the person to be in a position where a fall is possible. Alternatively use a length of flexible rope fitted with a self-locking rope grab and karabiner.

§ Ensure that all components of the fall restraint system are compatible.

§ Ensure that all components of the fall restraint system are stored in a suitable location to prevent damage or early deterioration.

PERSONAL FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT (LIMITED FREE FALL / FREE FALL)

Persons wear personal fall arrest equipment in order to arrest their fall should they fall from their working area. This type of equipment shall only be used when all other control measures have been explored and deemed to be inappropriate. The equipment typically consists of a full body harness connected to an anchor point via either a retractable or fixed length lanyard fitted with a shock absorber.



Fall arrest equipment can only be effective if the free space below the level at which the person is working is greater than the summed length of the person plus the lanyard, plus the expanded length of the shock absorber plus a safety margin of 1 metre. The minimum distance being 6 metres (7 metres if the anchor point is a static line). Persons shall calculate the actual distance based on the equipment they will use prior to its use.

Personal fall arrest equipment shall:

§ Comply with AS1891.1 and shall not be greater than ten years old.

§ Be inspected prior to each an every use.

§ Have a formal documented inspection performed by a competent person at intervals not exceeding 3 months.

§ Only be attached to an anchor point having the following features:

Be located above the wearer’s head and be within a maximum of 30 degrees from the vertical of the working area of the person.

Be of sufficient strength to withstand a breaking force of 15kN. (15kN equals 1.5 tonne in static load applied to one point)

Where permanent, anchor points shall be designed by a suitably qualified engineer and comply with AS 1891.4. They shall be identified as an anchor point with a sign and have their SWL detailed on that sign.

Where mounted with chemical or friction anchor bolts they shall be proof tested in compliance with AS1891.4.2000 part 3.1.3 (g).

Where rock anchors are used, they shall consist of two offset eyebolts with a combined strength of 21kN and must not have been used for any other purpose.

A vehicle that has a mass in excess of 2 tonnes, and is properly parked, with a Personal Danger tag and lock attached to the battery isolator which has been switched off. The attachment shall be to a main structural member of the vehicle and NOT to the tow ball or tie down hook.

Consist of a closed loop hook eye and must allow for the direct attachment of the safety device. Alternately, an endless loop lanyard can be wrapped around a suitable size steel structure (capable of holding 1500Kg) and the lanyard directly connected to both ends of the endless loop lanyard. Do not choke the endless loop lanyard.

Be a “Static Line” as long as it has been correctly designed and installed.

NOT be ladder rungs, handrails, cable tray support etc.

If scaffold is used as an anchor point:

Double scaffold tubes to be installed on the horizontal (ledger or transom)

Additional safety scaffold clips to be installed under the normal standard/ledger clip on the vertical upright (standard) to prevent slipping

Additional bracing to be installed

The distance between standards is not to exceed 1.8mtrs

Be the hook of a certified crane that is rated appropriately for the job and has been isolated so that it cannot be operated or moved.

Persons using fall arrest equipment shall:

§ Have been trained and assessed as a competent user of such equipment.

§ Ensure that there is sufficient height to allow the fall arrest system to function correctly, by not allowing the person to hit the ground or other structure, should a fall occur. As a minimum this requires 6 metres of clearance.

§ Obtain a formal documented “Approval to Work at Height” from their line superintendent or equivalent.



§ Develop and have approved by site emergency response coordinator an appropriate task specific emergency rescue plan. A person whose fall has been arrested by fall arrest equipment must be rescued quickly and efficiently otherwise serious injury can occur.

§ Perform a visual check on the lanyard for any cuts, abrasions or heat damage. For retractable lanyards, pull out its entire length and check it. If any faults are found then the equipment shall be tagged “Out of Service” and arrangements made for a competent person to conduct a formal inspection.

§ Perform a visual check on the full body harness prior to fitting it. Check that the harness complies with AS 1891.1. and that it is within 10 years from manufacture. If any faults are found then the equipment shall be tagged “Out of Service” and arrangements made for a competent person to conduct a formal inspection.

§ Ensure that it has been fully inspected and tagged within the previous 3 months.

§ Perform a visual condition check on the anchor point that will be used and if found unsuitable, not use it as an anchor point.

§ Connect to the attachment point prior to undertaking any work activity.

§ Ensure that they only use the attachment point positioned between the shoulder blades on the back of the harness. All other D hooks on the harness are either for rescue or for use in fall restraint.

§ Ensure the diameter of the “D” hook on the harness exceeds the throat depth of the attachment hook on the lanyard to prevent “roll out”.

§ Ensure that all components of the fall arrest system are stored in a suitable location to prevent damage or early deterioration.



APPENDIX E

Mobile Work Platforms

Purpose designed mobile work platforms such as:

§ Elevated Work Platform (EWP) sometimes called a cherry picker;

§ Scissor lifts.

Engineered additions to mobile equipment such as:

§ Baskets for Integrated Tool (IT) carriers;

§ Work platforms for Forklift trucks.

The design, manufacture, operation and maintenance of the above equipment are regulated by a number of different statutory requirements and compliance with these is essential.

Persons using such equipment shall:

§ Be trained and assessed as competent to use it. Refer Appendix B.

§ Conduct a daily pre-start inspection of the machine and log the results in either the machine logbook or equipment pre-start book. If the machine is found to be faulty, then it shall be tagged “Out of Service”.

§ Use it for its designated purpose and within its designed operating limits of both reach and weight carrying capacity.

§ Where required wear either fall restraint or fall arrest equipment.

For EWP (Boom type) a Fall Arrest Harness shall be worn at all times. Travel in the raised basket only allowed at creep speed. Travel in lowered basket allowed at normal speed;

For a scissorlift with any side missing then Fall Restraint equipment shall be used at all times;

For a scissorlift with all sides in place no Fall Restraint equipment is required and travel is permitted only at creep speed and whilst performing specific duties, not travelling between places of work.

§ Not access or exit any platform or basket while it is in the raised position, unless no other safe access exists and then only after a safe system of work has been developed after completing and documenting a thorough risk assessment and an “Approval to Work at Height” obtained.

§ Comply with specific training and site or area restrictions for the operation of the equipment. This especially applies to acceptable travel way slope and condition.

§ Only stand within the basket or on the floor of the platform and not on handrails, ladders, scaffolding or boxes in order to gain extra height.

§ Not work closer than 10 metres to exposed overhead power lines unless a powerline access permit has been authorised and obtained.

§ Have a separate person operating the machine controls where the platform is attached to an item of mobile equipment. Examples include IT basket or platform on a forklift.

§ Use an acknowledged signalling system between the person in the elevated basket or platform and the person at the controls where such a situation exists.

§ Ensure that where attachments fit to items of mobile plant that:

Only the correct machine/attachment arrangement is used.

For ITs carrying work platforms, its lift cylinders are fitted with check valves.



The attachment will not accidentally disconnect while the platform is in service.

They are a correctly engineered and manufactured attachment.

Whilst persons are being carried within them, they cannot be ejected from them.

§ If any faulty item of a mobile platform cannot be repaired, then sale of either the whole machine or scrapping of the individual component involved in being a work platform shall occur. If an item is sold with a fault the fault shall be documented in order to make the potential purchaser aware of the fault.

NOTE: At no time is it permissible to use either a wheeled loader bucket or a pallet on a forklift as a working platform.



APPENDIX F

Scaffold

Scaffolding shall:

§ Comply with AS1576, AS1577 and AS4576.

§ Be constructed and maintained by a competent scaffolder who has completed a THA before commencing erection or dismantling.

§ Be constructed and dismantled in such a manner that ensures correct lifting or lowering of sections and as far as is practicable does not place the person(s) erecting or dismantling it at a risk of falling from height or for items to fall from height.

§ Be constructed using correct lifting stillages etc. where the scaffolding material is tied into place to prevent it falling whilst being lifted.

§ Be modified only by a competent scaffolder.

§ Be built to the sufficient strength rating based on the estimated weight of the persons and equipment that shall be positioned onto it.

§ Have access ladders fitted to prevent persons accessing by climbing the structure.

§ Be fitted with a red Scaftag during construction and a signed and dated green Scaftag on completion.

§ Be clearly marked with its load capacity on the Scaftag.

§ Be re-inspected every 14 days or sooner if either environmental or workplace conditions are likely to effect the condition of the scaffolding. A competent scaffolder shall perform the inspection and shall re-sign and date the yellow side of the Scaftag. If any faults are noted that cannot be immediately rectified then the Scaftag shall be removed from the holder thus leaving the red “Danger do not use” component of the Scafftag system.

§ Be adequately guarded or barricaded where the scaffold has to be erected either partially or totally above or on a roadway or person access way.

§ Not be erected or dismantled within close proximity of electrical equipment such as transformer, bus bars etc. without seeking the advice of the Electrical Supervisor.

§ Any faulty item of scaffold equipment that cannot be effectively repaired shall be cut up and disposed of as scrap.

Working Platform

The working platform shall be:

§ Free from any tripping hazards.

§ The planks shall have no gaps greater than that required for lashing.

§ The working surface shall be slip resistant firm and level.

§ Planks or working surfaces shall be secured.

§ Stairs shall be in straight flights and not less than 500 mm in width.

§ The minimum headroom for stairs shall be 1850 mm.

§ The minimum clearance above landings shall be 1850 mm.

§ Every access landing shall have 450 mm clear around the landing point.

§ The clear width of an access to the platform, measured between the guardrails shall be:



Not less than 675 mm for persons and material

Not less than 450 mm for persons and hand tools

§ The working platform shall be level at all times.

§ Opening in hand railings for downward access from a platform shall be fitted with a bar or gate and these are to be self-closing.

Guardrails

§ Guardrails shall be securely fixed and parallel to the platform.

§ The top rail should be between 900 mm and 1100 mm from the platform.

§ The mid rail shall be at 600 mm from the platform unless fitted with in infill panel.

§ When guardrails are omitted at the working face or adjacent to a structure/building, the gap between the structure/building and platform edge, shall be less than 100mm.

Kick/Toe Boards

§ Planks shall extend 150mm above the surface of the platform.

§ Gap between the kick/toe boards and the platform shall not exceed 10 mm.

§ The kick/toe board shall be secured and extend around the entire work platform, unless;

§ Where the kick/toe board is omitted due to access requirements to the work, the gap between the working face or structure shall be less than 100 mm (to prevent object or person falling).

Erection Sequence

§ The scaffolding supervisor shall be responsible for ensuring that the sequence of erection complies with the requirements of the relevant states Safety Legislation, AS/NZS 1576, AS/NZS 4576, and AS/NZS 1891.

§ The scaffolding crew shall lift and lower all gear and equipment in a safe manner using ropes, gin wheels, baskets etc. The throwing or dropping of anything to or from an elevated area is totally unacceptable and persons observed undertaking these dangerous activities shall be subject to disciplinary action.

§ Scaffolders shall use approved means of access during the construction of scaffolding. Internal access should be completed at each 2 metre lift or as required to ensure safe access during construction.

§ Access by means of climbing the scaffold externally by using the standards and stars as foot holds shall not be permitted. Only when climbing the scaffold internally and with edge rail protection in place, may the standards and stars be used for climbing, and only as a last resort.

§ When requiring temporary planks during construction of the scaffold, a minimum of three planks shall be used to stand on, but as a general rule the following is required where practicable:

For 1200mm decks, 3 planks shall be used.



Preferred Method of Construction

Where practicable, the scaffold shall be built in a manner that prevents the risk of falling at all times, thereby eliminating the need for the scaffolder to be attached to a restraint anchorage point.

To achieve this during construction, the scaffold shall be fully enclosed at one metre lifts, with permanent decks every 2 metres. Temporary decks (consisting of three planks) may be used for construction purposes at the one metre lifts.



Each deck shall be installed from below, while standing on either the ground or a deck enclosed by rail protection. Before erecting the new deck, the next level of standards and handrails shall be installed by the scaffolder who will be in a safe position one metre above the existing deck.

For single bay scaffolds and internal access bays, the permanent deck shall remain in position every 2 metres. One plank may be left out of this deck to allow for equipment to be passed through to the next level. All enclosed lifts are to be left enclosed until the scaffold is stripped. Prior to approving the scaffold for use, all access decks shall have the final plank installed.

For multiple bay scaffolds, the technique is the same except that planks may be retrieved from below a completed deck provided the scaffolder remains in a protected position on a deck at the adjoining bay. This also requires that an internal handrail be installed, separating the bays.

All internal access bays shall be enclosed at each 0.5 metre lift for edge protection.

By following this above requirement, the scaffolder will at all times be working within handrails and on a deck, and will not need to be attached to a restraint or anchorage point. If however, rail and deck protection cannot be constructed as described above, the scaffolder shall be attached to a suitable restraint anchorage point.

§ Stair access bays shall be erected/dismantled using mechanical means wherever possible to install stairs. (Eg: crane, jenny wheel, winch)

§ While the risk of tools and or equipment falling during the construction of a scaffold exists, the area below shall be barricaded off to prevent any pedestrian being struck by tools or equipment that could potentially fall.

§ Scaffolders involved in the construction of the scaffold shall remain in a safe position at all times, where the risk of being struck by either falling equipment or a tool is minimised.

§ Pedestrians and all other persons must be protected from the potential of falling equipment at all times. This may require the construction of safety nets or hoardings prior to working above the area.

§ Tool restraints may be required at times to protect other persons, however if this is necessary consideration shall also be given to the risk of other equipment that could fall, for example tubes and / or couplers being used to construct the scaffold. If there is unacceptable risk to any person from either scaffolding equipment of tools falling, another work method shall be established.

Persons working on scaffold platforms complying with the above shall:

§ Check the Scaftag for currency prior to checking the scaffold for general condition. If any faults are noted then turn the Scaftag to the red side and request a competent scaffolder to check the scaffolding.

§ Only access the scaffolding via its fitted ladder or stairway.

§ Only use the scaffold to its maximum load capacity.

§ Ensure that their work activities do not allow tools or materials to fall onto persons below.

§ Not use the scaffold as an attachment point for lifting equipment such as chain blocks etc, unless a competent scaffolder has installed it as a lifting device.

§ Where scaffolds are fitted with wheels, the wheels shall be locked whenever the scaffold is being used.

§ Not use a mobile scaffold where either it or persons on it will come in close proximity to live electrical equipment such as bus bars etc.



APPENDIX G

Fixed Platforms and Walkways

Permanent work platforms shall:

§ Comply with the requirements of AS1657.

§ Have a self-closing bar or gate fitted to openings in the handrail to prevent falls

§ Be designed and constructed to carry the anticipated loads. Handrails shall withstand a minimum of 0.55 kN (55 kg dead weight equivalent).

§ Have a firm, level surface that does not move while being walked upon

§ Have edge protection in accordance with an appropriate standard. Where edge protection requirements are not specified in the standard, the edge protection shall consist of (all dimensions above the walking level):

a top rail between 900 and 1100 mm, a mid-rail at 600 mm, and a 100 mm (minimum) kickboard, or

a top rail at a minimum of 900 mm and infill panels suitable to prevent falls

Persons working on fixed platforms shall:

§ Not stand on any of the handrail structure.

§ Not overstretch over the handrails, thus compromising their safe work position.

§ Ensure that where fitted the gate or bar barrier is closed after entering the platform area.

§ Not erect ladders close to the edge of platforms such that they are then higher than the height of the handrail. If maintenance is required on items such as light poles then alternate methods such as scaffolding or EWP shall be employed.

§ Not at anytime rely on handrail components as an anchoring point for fall arrest equipment.



APPENDIX H

Access Equipment

Access equipment includes fixed ladders and stairways, temporary ladders to scaffolding and portable ladders in general.

Access equipment is not commonly used as work platforms and then only for very light duty work such as changing a light globe or when special equipment and control measures are put in place. Typical examples would include electrical pole work using a ladder, pole strap and work positioning harness.

For all types of access equipment, maintenance schedules shall be established in SAP for the periodic inspection to ensure that they remain in adequate condition to perform their intended task. The frequency of the inspections shall be determined by:

§ The work environment that they are exposed to.

§ The frequency of their use.

§ The work load that they are exposed to.

In addition to the above all access equipment shall be checked for their adequacy following any repairs and/or modifications, any damage caused by a collision or overloading or a natural event such as an earthquake, strong wind, fire, heavy rain etc.

Fixed Ladders And Stairways

All fixed ladders and stairways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with AS1657.

Fixed ladders shall:

§ Be fitted with ladder hoops and cages fitted above 2.2 metres from the bottom of the ladder. If hoops, cages and landings are not appropriate then a well-engineered and maintained ladder climbing system shall provide fall arrest.

§ Have landings / rest points at not more than 6 metre intervals.

§ The angle of the slope of rung ladders shall be not less than 70 degrees to the horizontal. It should be not greater than 75 degrees to the horizontal. In no case shall the ladder overhang the person climbing the ladder.

§ Be disposed off by removal and scrapping the structure if appropriate.

If hoops, cages and landings are not appropriate, alternate means of fall injury prevention must be utilised.

Fixed ladders shall be inspected:

§ at regular intervals determined by local operating conditions

§ as soon as practicable and prior to further use following an occurrence that may have affected the stability or adequacy of the ladder e.g. fire, collision, overloading.

§ Prior to use following repairs or modifications

Stairs shall:

§ Have edge protection fitted on exposed sides, returns and intermediate platforms.

§ Be fitted with non-slip nosing on each step.

§ Be disposed off by removal and scrapping the structure is appropriate.



Persons using fixed ladders shall:

§ Visually check the condition of the ladder prior to climbing and continuously check its condition whilst climbing it.

§ Maintain three points of contact whilst climbing

§ Ensure that materials are lifted and lowered in an approved manner.

§ That access to, and egress from the ladder, is unobstructed at all times.

§ When a ladder climbing system is installed then fall restraint equipment and a work positioning harness are used.

Temporary Ladders to Scaffolding

Temporary ladders used to access scaffolding shall be securely attached to the scaffolding in order to prevent persons using the ladder in any other location.

Persons shall only access scaffolding using such a ladder and shall not either climb up the side of the scaffolding or lean a portable ladder against the scaffolding to gain access.

Portable Ladders

Any ladder that is capable of being transferred from one location to another shall be considered a portable ladder. All portable ladders shall be designed and constructed to meet Australian Standard 1892.

To avoid concealment of defects in wooden ladders, clear varnish or oil must be used as a protective coating instead of paint. Any ladder that is found to be faulty and cannot be effectively repaired shall be disposed of in a manner that prevents its re-use.

Persons using a portable ladder shall:

§ Inspect the ladder prior to use. Pay special attention to the condition of the ladders rubber feet. Any faulty ladders shall be tagged “Out of Service”.

§ Not use “Domestic” rated ladders.

§ Ensure that the load rating, either medium or heavy duty is appropriate for the proposed use.

§ Ensure that the ladder will be positioned on a level and firm ground that is capable of holding the weight of the ladder and the person climbing on it.

§ Where either a single or extension ladder is used, on first climbing the ladder it shall be footed by another person and the ladder shall be tied off at the top prior to any other task being performed.

§ Maintain three points of contact.

§ Not stand on the top two rungs of the ladder.

§ Remain within the vertical supports of the ladder.

§ Items shall not be carried up or down a ladder unless carried in an approved hands free carry bag. Items of excessive weight shall not be carried up or down a ladder. Any item carried up or down the ladder must not affect the balance of the person using the ladder. Consideration should be given to the use of a rope or other suitable means to haul up tools and equipment

§ Ensure that the metal spreader bar is locked into position on a step ladder prior to using it.

§ Ensure that the correct lean angle is achieved for single and extension ladders by ensuring that the height of the ladder is not more than 4 times the distance from the foot of the ladder to the edge it is leaning on. (4:1 Ratio)

§ Ensure that the ladder is returned to a safe and appropriate storage area at the completion of its use. For wooden ladders store them horizontally 500mmm above the ground.

§ If the ladder is used to perform work from, then a secondary form of restraint is required.



Portable ladders shall be subject to the same inspection regime as fixed ladders.

Portable Stands

Portable stands shall be designed and purpose built to an appropriate engineering standard. Prior to using a portable stand a risk assessment shall be conducted and consider factors such as:

§ Height of the stand

§ Nature of task

§ Surface area of stand

§ Surface/ground stability

§ Access/egress to the stand

§ Requirements for edge protection

§ Potential for a fall

§ Likely consequences of a fall.

Where a portable stand is fitted with wheels, the wheels shall be locked whenever the stand is being used. The stand shall only be used on a suitable surface capable of supporting the wheel loadings. Portable Stands shall be inspected to confirm as adequate:

§ Before the first use

§ At intervals determined by the operating conditions

§ As soon as practicable and prior to further use following an occurrence that could have affected the stability or adequacy of the work platforms or access equipment e.g. fire, collision, overloading

§ Prior to use following repairs and modifications.

Lifts/Elevators

All lifts / elevators shall be designed and constructed to an appropriate standard e.g. AS 1735. All lifts / elevators shall be operated and inspected in accordance with legislative requirements.

Ali Macks

Operators must have a HP class certificate of competency if lifting people and loads.



APPENDIX I

Barricades

Barricading should be used to establish a restricted access zone where a high risk hazard exists. This means there is a definite risk of injury or harm if certain safety precautions are not followed

ACCESS

Restricted access zones are designated No-Go Zones and under no circumstance is a person to enter a restricted access zone unless:

§ They have been authorised to do so by their supervisor or authorised person

§ They are fully aware of the nature of the hazard

§ They are wearing the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.

APPLICATION

Examples of situations where temporary barricading should be used to establish a restricted access zone include, but are not limited to:

§ Work at heights where there is a risk of persons below being affected by falling objects

§ Areas where flooring, handrails or equipment have been removed causing an opening and a risk of falling

§ Holes or excavations which are intended to be left open for some time.

DEMARCATION

A restricted access zone is demarcated by the use of one of the following:

§ Use of hard bunting steel post and rail construction

§ Use of red & white tape

§ Barrier mesh

§ Red flags

§ Use of orange road cones.

In all situations, appropriate signage must be employed in conjunction with the barricading to warn people of specific hazards. “Authorised Entry Only” signs and completed information tags must be placed at all potential entry points.



APPENDIX J

Workbox

A workbox is an approved, engineered and constructed cage, which is suspended from a crane for the purpose of lifting and lowering persons to the work task.

All Workboxes shall be approved and registered with the appropriate regulatory body in each state. A compliance plate detailing this shall be affixed to the workbox to indicate that it is registered/approved.

Each Workbox shall:

§ Be designed in accordance with AS1418.17.

§ Be inspected prior to use and if any faults are noted tagged “Out of Service”.

§ Be clearly marked or tagged with:

The tare weight;

The Safe Working Load (SWL)

§ Have the lifting slings permanently attached to the workbox by locked shackles, or similar means.

§ Be regularly inspected and maintained in safe working condition.

§ Have the access door, if fitted, open inwards and be able to be securely locked.

§ Have a minimum of two persons at any time occupying the cage whilst in use. One of the persons in the workbox should be a licensed rigger.

§ Be fitted with anchor points to allow both occupants to wear a fall arrest harness attached to the anchor points at all times whilst the workbox is in use.

If a Workbox is faulty and cannot be effectively repaired then it shall be cut up and disposed of as scrap.

The crane lifting the workbox shall: -

§ Have drive up and drive down controls on both the hoist and luffing motions.

§ Be equipped with controls that return to the neutral position when released resulting in the motion stopping.

§ Be fitted with an up limit switch on the hoist motion

§ Be fitted with operational warning or limiting devices to prevent overwinding of the hoist drum.

§ Be equipped with outriggers and have them extended at all times whilst the workbox is in use.

§ Have any free fall devices locked out, whilst the workbox is in use.

The Workbox shall only be used when:

§ Weather conditions are suitable.

§ A licensed and authorised crane driver operates the crane.

§ All certificates of testing for the workbox, crane and all associated equipment (slings etc) are current.

§ All persons involved in the work are aware of the procedures to be followed.

§ There is an effective means of communicating between the persons in the workbox and the crane driver.

§ The crane driver remains at the crane controls at all times whilst the workbox is in use.



§ It is not possible for any part of the crane or load to be within 10 metres of any “live” power lines unless a powerline access permit has been authorised and obtained.

§ The crane is stationary.

§ The crane performs no other lifting whilst the workbox is attached.

§ Persons inside the cage are at all times wearing a full body fall arrest harness and they are attached via a lanyard to the designed anchor point in the workbox.



APPENDIX K

Roofs

Prior to commencing any work on a roof either a THA or a WRA C shall be performed and this should consider:

§ The nature of the work to be conducted. Is it a roof replacement or just access to service equipment on the roof?

§ The condition of the existing roof and support structure.

§ Is the roof material brittle? Examples being Asbestos cement or aged Alsynite.

§ Is there wire mesh installed under brittle roof material?

§ The location of the roof relevant to other areas of the plant.

§ The slope of the roof.

§ How tools, materials and equipment will be raised and lowered and stored on the roof.

§ The distance from the edge of the roof that the work will be performed at. If all work is conducted at a distance greater than 2 metres from the roof edge on a flat roof and the roof is sound then no fall restraint or arrest system is required.

§ How a person will be anchored to a suitable anchor point.

§ How a static line will be installed, tested and maintained if one is used.

§ How access and egress onto and off the roof will occur.

Persons who are going to work on a roof shall ensure that:

§ They comply with the controls detailed in the THA or WRAC.

§ The structural integrity of the roof has been determined prior to:

Moving onto it;

Storing materials on it;

Rigging from it.

§ If the roof material is brittle or its soundness cannot be determined then boarding over the brittle or unsound sections shall be installed by a competent person.

§ If work is to be carried out within 2 metres of any roof edge then fall restraint shall be used that prevents a person coming too close to the roof edge.

§ If extensive roof repairs or replacement work is being conducted, that requires open roof areas to be created, then a static line shall be installed to provide the required fall restraint. This shall be continuously adjusted to provide correct fall restraint.

§ The means of gaining access and egress to the roof is a safe practice. Means of access include: -

Permanent ladders;

Scaffolding;

Properly secured temporary ladders.

§ The means of raising and lowering material, tools and equipment is performed in a safe manner.

§ They are not going to be working in close proximately to live power lines.



APPENDIX L

Ceiling Spaces

Prior to working in or accessing any ceiling space a THA shall be conducted. Appropriate control measures determined by the THA shall be implemented.

The THA should consider the following:

§ Access to and egress from ceiling spaces.

§ Atmospheric conditions within the ceiling space.

§ Supporting surface strength and condition

§ Communication.

§ Electrical hazards

§ Fire risks.

§ Hazardous materials contamination.

§ Physical effects of working in the ceiling space.

§ Rescue procedures

When moving around in the ceiling space, a temporary platform such as boarding can be used.



APPENDIX M

Material Falling From Height

Whenever any material or object has the potential to fall and injure a person, a safe system of working shall be adopted.

This will include:

§ Materials and equipment properly secured especially during dismantling, lifting or moving

§ Gaps in handrails and floors covered

§ Scaffolding erected to correct standards (eg kick/toe boards)

§ Using suitable receptacles for off-cuts, welding rods stubs, nuts and bolts etc

§ Using lanyards/wrist straps on hand tools, chin strap on safety hats

§ Providing catch scaffold or safety net under the job

§ Providing adequate barricades and warning systems to prevent people entering an area where falling objects may injure them

§ Not throwing items from one level to another.



APPENDIX N

Open Holes

An open hole is a hole larger than 200mm x 200mm but less than 2 metres x 2 metres or with a diameter greater than 200mm but less than 2 metres. Anything larger is to be considered as an open edge requiring either fall restraint or arrest as applicable.

Where work activities will either create an open hole or where one exists in a work area a THA or WRAC shall be conducted to determine the controls that will be implemented in order to control the hazard. Things to consider shall include:

§ The size of the hole that will be created.

§ Is the hole being created in a walkway or just behind an opening?

§ What is the lighting around the open hole both during day and night time?

§ What sort of barricading can be used around the hole?

§ What are the work tasks that will be performed in the hole?

§ How will tools, equipment and material be delivered to the persons working within or below the hole?

Persons either creating or working near an open hole shall:

§ Erect the strongest practical barricade either around or over the hole. For temporary openings, a fixed scaffold barrier around the hole is the minimum acceptable protection. (For very short term openings < 1 hr the placement of a sentry to prevent access to the area is an acceptable control)

§ Erect suitable “Danger” signs advising persons of the open hole or open hole below.

§ Ensure that there is a safe means of access and egress into and out of the hole if this is required.

§ Where persons are required to work within 2 metres of an open hole that is not barricaded off with a scaffold or other strong barrier, then they shall wear fall restraint equipment that shall prevent them being able to reach the edge of the open hole.

§ Determine how tools, material and equipment are going to be lowered into or lifted out of the hole.

Where the holes provides access to a Confined Space then ensure that all safe work practices for the Confined Space are complied with, including seeking a Permit to Work and Confined Space Certificate.



APPENDIX O

General Requirements For Rope Systems

A rope management system is to be used in preference to a rope access system.

A rope management system is the us e of two raising/lowering systems operated by competent authorised persons who are positioned in a secure location and are controlling the ascent and descent of a worker performing the task on the end of the rope.

A rope access system is a twin rope system operated and controlled solely by the person on those lines i.e. abseiling and ascending totally under their own control. Rope access systems are subjected to legislated requirements as follows:

Logged and Verified Experience Category

0 – 500 hr Trainee

500 – 1500 hr Experienced Worker

> 1500 hr Supervisor

A supervisor, as per the requirements in the table above, shall be present when rope access systems are in use at the work site.

Rope systems shall conform to the following general requirements.

Design and Construction

Rope systems shall be affixed to anchorage points that will withstand a force of at least 15 kN per person to be supported.

There shall be two independent rope systems, each system shall be attached to independent anchorages.

Ropes shall be a minimum of 11mm diameter and of kern mantle construction from either nylon or polyamide material with a minimum breaking strain of 3000 kg.

Storage

Facilities shall be provided to ensure that rope components do not deteriorate while being stored.

Use

Rope systems shall only be erected and used by competent and authorised persons.

Rope systems shall be inspected to confirm as adequate:

§ Prior to each use

§ At regular scheduled intervals determined by the operating conditions

§ As soon as practicable and prior to further use following an occurrence that could have affected the adequacy of the rope system e.g. fire, collision, overloading

§ Prior to use following repairs and modifications.



Disposal

Ropes shall be disposed of, if in the opinion of a competent and authorised person, the rope is no longer safe to use. It shall be disposed in such away to make it impossible to re-use in a fall injury prevention system

RILL ROPES

Design and Construction

The minimum standard rope will be 20 mm non-deteriorating rope or equivalent chain.

Use

Rill ropes are not suitable for slopes greater than 45°. In these circumstances ladders shall be used.

Rill ropes shall be inspected to confirm as adequate as per general rope systems above.

Disposal

As per general rope requirements above.



APPENDIX P

Approval To Work At Height

Section A - WORK ARRANGEMENTS

Approval completed by: Position:

Description of work:

Exact Location:

Date Commenced: Time: Expiry Date: Time:

Section B - PRECAUTIONS TAKEN

Due to an alternative method of accessing and or performing this particular job being either unavailable or impractical the following items have been checked and precautions will be taken.

Tick the appropriate box YES N/A

1. Will the work area support the weight?

2. Is a Sentry / Stand-by Required?

3. Have communications been tested and proven successful?

4. Are personnel competent in usage of Personnel Fall Protection Equipment?

5. Are suitable anchor points identified and safe for use?

6. Is all Personnel Fall Protection Equipment current and tagged?

7. Has pre-use inspection of the PPE been conducted by the operator?

Section C – RESCUE PLAN (to be filled out in conjunction with ER Coordinator)

1. How many persons will be working at height?

2. Is access for emergency vehicles affected or blocked?

3. Can a patient be bought to ground without lifting equipment? NO / YES

What lifting equipment needs to be set up?

Does an EWP need to be in place and on standby? NO / YES (if yes, record location)

Has the EWP operator been informed and are they available? NO / YES

4. List rescue equipment required and check the current availability.

5. List other external resources required.

6. How many ERT members are required to implement the procedure?

Are they available? NO / YES



7. General Comments:

I have inspected the job and discussed the rescue plan with the work team and can implement the above rescue plan if required

Emergency Response Coordinator / Team Leader Name / Signature:

I have read, fully understand and will comply with all conditions stated on this Work at height authority

Persons working with fall arrest equipment Name / Signature:

I acknowledge that all preparatory work has been completed and that work is safe to proceed

Superintendent Name / Signature:

Documents

Safe Working at Height Standard - MIRMgatemirmgate.com.au/docs/mhs/08/57087.pdf5.5 Planner / Scheduler ... Workbox ... reaching a position at which there is a risk of a free or limited