The course covers the fundamental principles of working safely at height, focusing on risk management, hazard identification, and the use of appropriate equipment. By the end of the course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how to assess risks, implement safe work practices, and ensure the well-being of yourself and your colleagues while working at heights.

Key Training Components:

Understanding the Risks of Working at Heights

• Risk Identification: Learn to identify common hazards associated with working at heights, such as falling objects, unstable surfaces, and weather-related risks.
• Types of Falls: Understand the different types of falls that can occur, including falls from ladders, scaffolds, and elevated work platforms.
• Risk Assessment: Gain the knowledge to carry out effective risk assessments before beginning any work at height. This involves evaluating the environment, equipment, and potential hazards to determine safe work procedures.

Legislative and Regulatory Requirements

• Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA): Understand the legislative requirements and safety standards set out under the HSWA for working at height. This includes knowing the responsibilities of employers and employees in maintaining a safe work environment.
• WorkSafe Guidelines: Familiarise yourself with the WorkSafe New Zealand regulations and industry standards that apply to working at heights, including the proper use of equipment and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
• Compliance and Best Practices: Learn how to comply with the legal requirements regarding fall protection systems, training, and certification.

Safe Work Practices for Working at Heights

• Planning and Preparation: Understand the steps involved in planning safe work at heights. This includes assessing the work area, selecting the right equipment, and identifying hazards.
• Use of Fall Protection Systems: Learn about various fall protection systems such as safety harnesses, guardrails, fall arrest (shock absorbing) and fall restraint equipment. Understand when and how to use these systems effectively.
• Ladders, Scaffolds, and Elevated Platforms: Gain knowledge of how to safely use ladders, scaffolds, and aerial work platforms. This includes correct positioning, securing the equipment, and ensuring stability during use.
• Rescue Plans: Understand the importance of having a rescue plan in place before working at height. Learn how to identify the appropriate methods for emergency evacuation in the event of an incident.
• Weather and Environmental Considerations: Learn how to assess weather conditions such as high winds, rain, or lightning, and how these can affect the safety of working at height. Understand when it’s safe to work and when conditions require postponement.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Working at Heights

• Harnesses and Lanyards: Learn the correct use of fall arrest harnesses and the difference between Fall arrest or Fall restraint lanyards, including how to choose the right equipment for specific tasks.
• Head Protection and Footwear: Understand the importance of using proper helmets, non-slip footwear, and other PPE to ensure safety when working at height.
• Inspection of PPE: Learn how to inspect fall protection equipment to ensure it remains in good working condition.

Communication and Coordination

• Teamwork and Communication: Learn effective communication strategies to ensure clear coordination between team members working at height. This includes establishing signals, monitoring progress, and providing updates on hazards.
• Supervision and Monitoring: Understand the role of supervisors in overseeing safe work practices, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and managing potential risks.