HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURE
PROCEDURE FOR WORKING AT HEIGHT
IN THE WORKS DEPARTMENT
No 25b
Document Reference:
NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
Author:
Damian Gudgeon
Department:
Risk Management
Date:
May 2008
Review Date:
November 2010
To ensure services provided by NHS Blackpool are accessible, information is
available upon request in a variety of formats including large print, Braille, on
audiocassette or computer disk.
We can also provide help for British Sign Language users and provide
information in languages other than English.
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
Document Type: Policy
Document Reference Number:
BPCT/SPD/RISK/08/08
Title: Procedure for Working at Height in the Version Number: 01
works Dept
Classification: Health and Safety
Author(s):
Damian
Gudgeon
Title(s): Risk Auditor
Department(s): Risk Management
Date of Issue:
August 2008
Review due:
August 2011
Replaces Version Number: 01
Description of Amendments: New Legislation
Ratified by:
Title:
Signature:
Joint Health and Safety
Blackpool PCT
Committee and Senior
Management Forum
North
Lancashire
Teaching PCT
Review Date:
27//05/08
Joint Health and Safety
Committee
Document Review History
Version Number: Approved Reviewer:
0
Damain Gudgeon
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 1 of 26
Ratified Date:
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
1.0
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
PURPOSE
Incidents involving employees Working at Height has consistently over the last
10 years, been responsible for the largest number of fatalities in the workplace.
As a direct result the Work at Height Regulations 2005 where introduced to
protect employees and others against risks to the health while working at
height. During 2006 -2007 45 fatalities occurred as a direct result from working
at height. Due to the nature of reporting it is unclear how many major injuries
have occurred as a result of employees falling from height when at work.
This policy outlines the steps to be taken by NHS Blackpool and NHS North
Lancashire to ensure that all employees, clients, members of the public and
contractors do not work at height where it can be avoided and where it cannot
suitable and sufficient controls are introduced following the appropriate
hierarchy. To achieve this, the corner stone of this policy requires a suitable and
sufficient risk assessment to be completed for all tasks which require working at
height.
2.0 DUTIES
2.1 Consultation
All staff employed by the Trust will be affected therefore, the Trust and Staff
representatives have had all information made available to them and have been
consulted through the Joint Health and Safety Committee.
3.0
SCOPE
This policy applies to all employees and staff and contractors working for the
undertakings of either NHS Blackpool and NHS North Lancashire.
4.0
EQUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT
This document has been impact assessed by the author and members of Joint
Health and Safety Committee. No issues in relation to equality, diversity,
gender, colour, race or religion are identified as raising a concern.
5.0
PROCEDURE
Working at height continues to be the largest killer in the workplace. In 20062007 19% of fatalities where related to working at height. Working at height in
the construction and allied skilled trades has for a large number of years been
recognised as the main cause of fatalities. During 2006 – 2007 23 people where
killed in the construction trade falling from height. 4 of these falling from a height
less than 2 metres. In the skilled trade occupations 94 people died including 9
painters and decorators. Although figures are not available to break down how
many of the 94 are actually related to working at height, using the 19 % figure
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 2 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
we can estimate approx 17 people in the skilled trades died as a result of falling
from height. Additionally it is one of the main causes of major injury.
Working at height in the works department is a high risk area. It is imperative
that all appropriate precautions are always taken to ensure the safety of any
individual who may be working at height.
5.1
Risk Assessment
In the event of working at height being unavoidable, a suitable and
sufficient risk assessment must be completed. This will identify all the
necessary control measures.
Using the flowchart (Appendix 1) can help employees carrying out the task
and identify what steps need to be taken.
Risk assessments may be generic, covering the same task on a number of
occasions and in a number of locations, but if there is significant changes
to the task, location, personnel or the equipment used then a specific
assessment must be completed for that task.
When considering the use of a generic risk assessment the following
factors must always be taken into account
• the task
• equipment used
• competency of the personnel
These points must always be relevant to the work being undertaken.
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 provides a hierarchy of control
measures for determining an appropriate level of control. It is vital that this
hierarchy is followed systematically and only when it is not reasonably
practicable to introduce the controls must the next level down be
considered. It is not acceptable to accept controls from lower down the
hierarchy (e.g. personal fall arrest equipment or ladders) in the first
instance. The hierarchy has three basic steps to consider in order.
• Avoid
• Prevent
• Minimise
More guidance on helping select the right equipment is contained later in
this procedure.
The risk assessment form for completing work at height assessments is
found in appendix 2.
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 3 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
Hierarchy
General Guidance
Avoid
If you don’t have to go up
there don’t.
Use work equipment or
other measures to
Prevent falls where
working at height cannot
be avoided
Can an existing safe place
at height be used.
Adopt a more suitable
method of working.
Selection of suitable
equipment
Where you cannot
eliminate a risk of a fall
use work equipment or
other measures to
minimise the distance
and consequences if a fall
should occur
Give collective measures
priority over personal
Mitigate the consequences
of a fall
Prevent any person falling a
distance liable to cause
injury
Have measures in place to
arrest a fall
Airbags
Examples
Can the work be done from
ground level?
Can the work be lowered to
ground level
An existing building or
structure including its
means of access and
egress.
Scaffold,
Mobile elevated work
platforms,
Tower scaffold
Ladders
landing mats
nets
fall arrest equipment,
rope access.
When selecting suitable work equipment on the risk assessment form an
explanation of why the controls are or are not being used must be placed
in the appropriate box when systematically moving down the hierarchy of
choice.
If yes is ticked a brief explanation of the controls to be used must be
placed in the box. If no is ticked then an explanation of why that control is
not suitable must be placed in the appropriate section.
The hierarchy on the form must be followed in the same systematic
manner as previously mentioned.
Employees who work at height must be trained in the use of the work
equipment and awareness of working at height. Ticking that employees
are trained in working at height awareness and the use of the height
access equipment will help significantly reduce the likelihood score on the
assessment of risk.
NHS Blackpool risk assessment risk level estimator should be used when
assessing residual risk after control measures have been introduced. The
consequence score rating must always remain at 5 as it is foreseeable that
fatalities can occur on falls less than 2 metres. The introduction of suitable
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 4 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
work equipment and the provision of a competent well trained workforce
will have a significant effect on reducing the likelihood score and thus the
residual risk score on the quantification of risk on the assessment.
Risk assessments must be reviewed annually or whenever there is
significant change in the task, equipment, after an accident or on the
introduction of new legislation or guidance.
5.2
Choosing the Right Work Equipment
When selecting work equipment duty holders should give collective protection
measures priority over personal protection measures. Collective measures
protect more than one person. They are passive systems in that they do not
require any action by the person at the work position. Examples include
guardrails, tower scaffolds; mobile elevated work equipment which provides
collective fall prevention.
Nets and airbags constitute collective fall mitigation measures.
When choosing the suitability of equipment to work at height consideration must
be given to all the following points.
5.3
Working conditions
Slopes, poor ground, obstructions and traffic can determine the choice of work
equipment. E.g. a mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) could reach over bad
ground or obstructions as long as its stability was not compromised. MEWP’s
must be used on firm ground which is free from slopes / holes likely to result in
overturning. Tower scaffolds should rest on firm level ground, with the wheels or
feet properly supported and if necessary outriggers fitted.
5.4
Weather conditions
Adverse weather conditions need to be anticipated and suitable precautions
taken. Rain, ice, or snow can turn a secure footing into a skating rink. A roof
should always be inspected before work starts to see if conditions have
changed and to check whether it is safe to work.
Sudden gusts of wind can lead to a loss of balance.
An anemometer should be available to measure wind speed on the roof if large
sheets are being handled and the risk management contacted for advice on
wind speeds.
5.5
Access and Egress
The distance to be negotiated for access and egress needs consideration.
Ladders are likely to be less suitable from higher access. Provide fixed access
or towers with internal stairs from higher access.
5.6
Distance and consequences of a fall
A fall arrest lanyard would be unacceptable if the deployment length of the
lanyard and energy absorber where greater than the fall height. The user would
hit the floor before the system could deploy. Nets and airbags become less
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 5 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
reliable in terms of preventing injury the higher the fall, alternative work
equipment should be selected in such circumstances.
5.7
Duration and frequency of Use
Long Duration higher frequency of work can justify a better standard of fall
protection e.g. a tower scaffold rather that a ladder. However a ladder may be
justified for short duration low risk repetitive work. Care should be taken when
requiring precautions for short duration work (taking minutes rather than hours)
because it may not be reasonably practicable to install safeguards such as
edge protection
5.8
Ease of rescue / evacuation
If evacuation from an employed fall arrest equipment is going to be difficult,
choose other work equipment.
5.9
Risk of use Installation and removal of equipment
A MEWP used by 1 person to work safely at height may entail less risk than
exposing 2 or 3 people to risk in order to erect a tower or scaffold for the 1
person to work safely. The 2 or 3 people will be exposed to more risk during
installation and removal of scaffold tubing / boarding etc, which has to be
installed / dismantled at height. A MEWP will entail lower installation and
removal risks. Are there overhead electrical lines crossing the site or near to the
site, there may be a danger of contact or near contact with scaffolding tubes,
metal roof sheets, or ladders causing flashover.
5.10 Guidance for Work on Sloping and Flat Roofs
For work on sloping roofs unless of very short duration full edge protection is
required on all roof elevations to which access is needed. This is to prevent
people and materials falling from the lower edge of the roof. The potential
loading on edge protection when a person falls down a pitched roof onto it is
much greater compared to falling against it on a flat roof. The scaffold supplier
must be aware of the roof pitch when specifying edge protection.
All work within 2 metres of gable ends no matter what the time duration of the
work must have edge protection at those edges.
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 6 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
Typical sloping roof edge protection
For work of a short duration on a pitched roof (replacing a few tiles or slates) the
decision on whether or not to erect edge protection will depend on a number of
factors.
The minimum standard for such short duration work on a pitched roof is
• Safe means of access to roof level.
• A properly constructed and supported roof ladder
Under no circumstances must any individual work directly on tiles or slates
unless additional measures to prevent falls e.g. a safety harness with a suitable
anchorage point are provided.
Roof ladders must be designed and fabricated to be fit for purpose
Strong enough to support workers when spanning across the supports for the
roof coverings. Long enough to span the supports (at least three rafters)
Secured or placed to prevent accidental movement.
The anchorage at the top of the roof ladder should be by some method which
does not depend on the ridge capping. This is liable to break away from the
ridge. The anchorage should bear on the opposite slope by a properly designed
manufactured ridge iron or be secured by other means.
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 7 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
Eaves and gutters should not be used as footing or to support a roof ladder.
5.11 Flat Roofs
Where the design of the roof does not provide permanent edge protection, then
temporary edge protection will normally be required, e.g. by means of guard
rails and toe boards which should when erected:
•
•
•
•
give protection during the full course of the work;
be strong and rigid enough to prevent people from falling and be able to
withstand other loads likely to be placed on them;
when fixed to a structure this should be capable of supporting them; and
be designed in such a way that it is not necessary to remove them in
order to work at the edge of the roof.
All guard rails should meet the minimum legal standard, i.e. they should include:
•
•
•
a main guard rail at least 910 mm above any edge from which people are
liable to fall;
a toe board at least 150 mm high; and
an intermediate guard rail, barrier or suitable alternative, positioned so
that the unprotected gap is no greater than 470.
Where limited work is being carried out on sections of a large roof, a simple
form of barrier some distance from the roof edge could identify the work area
and any access route to it. The distance should be adequate to ensure that
people working within the demarcated area cannot fall from the edge of the
roof. For roofs with a slight slope where this method is used, it may be
necessary to prevent materials rolling away, beyond the '
safe'area.
In most circumstances a distance of at least 2 m from the edge will be sufficient.
This will depend on the geometry of the roof and may need to be increased.
This type of barrier is only acceptable where there is a high level of supervision
and discipline to ensure that people do not go beyond the demarcated area.
There should be no unprotected holes, breaks or fragile material within the '
safe
area'
. Barriers should be sufficiently durable and be immediately obvious to all.
Markings at foot level are not a suitable alternative to a barrier.
For short duration work on flat roofs, it may not be feasible to provide edge
protection. In these circumstances the decision on the precautions to be taken
will depend on an overall assessment of the risks involved which should
consider:
•
•
duration of the work;
complexity of the work;
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 8 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
•
•
•
•
•
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
pitch of the roof;
condition of the roof;
weather conditions;
risk to those putting up edge protection;
risk to other workers and the public.
Mobile access equipment can provide a safe working platform in some
situations. Where this is not practicable, then travel restraint or fall arrest should
be considered.
5.12 Fragile Surfaces
A fragile surface is a surface that would be liable to fail if any reasonably
foreseeable loading were to be applied to it. Where it is possible working on
fragile materials should be avoided. All fragile surfaces near any area where
work at height is taking place must be identified on the risk assessment. e.g.
asbestos, cement / plastic sheet, glass, wood, roof lights. All fragile surfaces
must have a fixed warning notice at all access points. Work on or near fragile
surfaces must be carefully planned and the principles of the hierarchy of control
measures firmly applied. Any work on or near fragile materials must be subject
to a permit to work system (appendix 3).
5.13 Training
All employees who work at height must attend a working at height awareness
course. Additionally employees who use equipment to work at height must
receive an appropriate level of information instruction or training in the use of
that specific equipment used. This includes a range of equipment from kick
stools, ladders, scissor lifts, harnesses and scaffolds.
All training must be reviewed regularly and within a maximum timescale of three
years.
Information on the use of kick stools can be found in the Working at Height in
the Primary Care Trust Procedure. Information on the suitability and use of
ladders and step ladders can be obtained from the HSE booklets INDG 402,
403, and 405 or from the risk management department. All staff that use step
ladders or ladders must obtain copies of these booklets read and understands
them. Additional information and training concerning the use of Mobile Elevated
Work Platforms can be gained from the manufacturers or suppliers.
5.14 Ladders and Step Ladders
Ladders have not been banned in the workplace. The use of ladders and step
ladders can be justified being at the bottom of the hierarchy, providing the user
has been trained and instructed in the selection and safe use of ladders and
systems are in place to ensure ladders are maintained and inspected every six
months. A ladder inspection checklist is included in appendix 4. Ladders do not
prevent a fall or mitigate a fall but if used by trained operators in appropriate
circumstances i.e. low risk and for short durations, their work can be justified. All
departments that have ladders or step ladders must operate a ladder register,
(appendix 5) detailing the date of purchase, date and frequency of
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 9 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
maintenance, defects reported, repair work etc. All ladders must have an
identifiable number. When possible access ladders should be removed to
prevent trespassers or children access. Easily accessible permanently fixed
access ladders should be blocked off e.g. by boards over rungs when access is
not required. All ladders and step ladders must be stored correctly consult the
manufacturer’s instructions for safe storage of ladders and step ladders.
When using step ladders ensure the following
•
•
•
•
•
all four legs are in contact with the ground
place the stepladders with the rungs facing the work activity and not side
on as this is less stable.
Ensure the ladders are the correct length. Do not overreach.
Do not use the top three (including the top step) rungs of the stepladder
unless it has a suitable hand rail. This should ensure a handhold is
readily available.
Always use appropriate footwear
Where ever ladders or step ladders are in use throughout NHS Blackpool’s
copies of the following documents must be read and understood by all staff
using the relevant equipment. Additionally copies of these documents must be
located in each department. These documents can be obtained from HSE
BOOKS or from the Risk Management Department.
• Safe Use of Ladders and Step Ladders INDG 402
• Top Tips for Ladder and Step Ladder Safety INDG405
All step ladders used for the purposes of NHS Blackpool’s must be the British
Standard for stepladders BS / EN 131 or BS 2037 (aluminium) BS 1129 (wood)
and must all be class 1 (industrial).
5.15 Harnesses
Contact must be made with the risk management department prior to any work
that shall be undertaken which requires the use of harnesses, lanyards or
restraints. The risk management department will ensure that a suitable and
sufficient risk assessment has been undertaken to ensure no other safer means
of working can be achieved. Additionally a suitable rescue procedure must be in
place. All personnel who use a harness must hold a current International
Powered Access Federation (IPAF) safety harness training card.
5.16 Falling Objects
Where it is reasonably practicable all steps must be taken to prevent anything
falling from any elevated working platform ladders or step ladders.
Additionally nothing must be thrown or tipped from a height, or stored in such a
way that its movement is likely to injure anybody.
The provision of waste chutes, directly into sealed skips and the use of barriers
to secure a clearly marked area to prevent unauthorised persons access are
two possible ways of achieving this.
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 10 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
5.17 Additional Hazards
Care should be taken not to expose anybody to additional hazards when
working or accessing an unfamiliar place of work. Consideration must be given
to the location of over head power cables or service cables particularly when
the assembly of height access equipment is being undertaken. Stack pipes
which may emit harmful fumes. Manual handling risks in particular the methods
to be utilised to get equipment and materials to the place of work. The safe
working principles outlines in the Safe Use of Ladders and Step Ladders INDG
402 guidance must not be compromised when transferring equipment and
materials to and from the place of work. When ever possible the use of battery
operated electrical equipment must be used at height. The work area can cause
damage to the cable insulation on 240V and 110V electrical equipment.
However if they have to be used all electrical supplies should be obtained from
properly constructed and installed plugs and sockets of the industrial type and
always used in conjunction with a Residual Current Device (RCD). Additionally
all electrical equipment must be properly installed and maintained.
5.18 Inspections
All equipment used for working at height must be inspected by a competent
person. This inspection must be vigorous as well as visual.
Inspections must be carried out on all scaffolds, including tower and Mobile
Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP) at the following intervals
• After installation or assembly
• If exposed to conditions likely to cause deterioration.
(soft ground high winds etc)
• Every 7 days
• After any incident or report of near miss
• After exceptional circumstances which may jeopardise the safety of
the equipment.
The checklist in appendix 6 can be used to help gather information for the
report. The checklist does not represent the report.
After the inspection has been completed a report must be completed by the
competent person within 24 hours of the inspection taking place. Any actions
identified in the inspection must be completed immediately. If the inspection
identifies that the safety of any person is placed at risk, the site must be cleared
immediately and the risk management department informed.
The report must be sent to the department’s senior manager, who must keep
the report until the next report is completed and for a minimum timescale of
three months.
NHS Blackpool shall ensure that no equipment used for working at height
leaves the organisations undertakings without it being accompanied by the last
inspection report. Equally no equipment used for working at height must be
brought into NHS Blackpool for use as a result of its undertakings unless it is
accompanied by the last inspection report.
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 11 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
A simple visual check can be completed by all users prior to use, the simple
check is looking for the following defects:
• Missing damaged or worn anti –slip feet on metal and fibreglass ladders
(these are essential for good grip)
• Items stuck in the feet such as swarf, stones grease or dirt, preventing
the feet from making contact with the ground
• Mud grease or oil either on the rungs or the stiles (the slides)
• Cracks in the rungs or stiles of the ladder.
• Missing broken or weakened rungs.
• Missing or damaged tie rods.
• Check metal ladders for cracked or damaged welds and missing or
loose screws or rivets.
6.0
IMPLEMENTATION
6.1 For risk management to be effective within the Trust, this policy has
a structured and supportive approach for the implementation of training
and will demonstrate the Trust'
s commitment that all staff are taking
positive steps and working in partnership with each other, patients and
stakeholders to provide a positive risk management culture within the
organisation.
To achieve this, the Risk Management policy will be;
•
•
•
•
•
•
reviewed annually and approved by the Health and Safety
Committee and Senior Management Forum.
circulated to all Managers, with specific responsibilities detailed in
the document.
available to all staff in all departments and practices.
available to all stakeholders on request ( in an appropriate format )
available to Independent Contractors for information.
available on the intranet.
6.2 Implementation of the policy
The Risk Management Department will provide support and
guidance to all staff to implement the policy.
To support the implementation of the policy, risk management
must be:
•
•
included in the job descriptions for all staff;
incorporated into KSF and PDP objectives for all staff on an
annual basis;
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 12 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
•
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
part of the mandatory induction programme for all new staff;
A Risk Management Bulletin will be published on a 4 monthly basis and
available on the Intranet.
7.0
MONITORING
Compliance with this Procedure shall be monitored by the Joint Health
and Safety Committee via review of the Untowards Incident Reporting
process.
8.0
PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Compliance to Working at height Regulations 2005 (SI 2005 No 735)
RIDDOR provision and use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
(PUWER) Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996
9.0
REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY
Work at Height Regulations2005 SI 2005/735
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 a brief guide INDG 401
HSG 33 Health and Safety in Roofwork
HSE Topic Inspection Pack Working at Height
HSG 150 Health and Safety in Construction
10.0 ASSOCIATED DOCUMENTS
Document
25
25a
Title
Working at Heights Policy
Procedure for Working at Height in the PCT
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 13 of 26
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
11.0 PEER REVIEW
The document, entitled Procedure For Working At Height In The Works
Department has been peer reviewed by the following people:
Name (print)
Post held
Date
Wendy Swift (BPCT)
Chief Executive
27/05/08
Keith Savage
Head of Governance
28/05/08
Damian Gudgeon
Risk Auditor
28/05/08
Rosemary Williamson Office Manager
28/05/08
Helen Skerritt
28/05/08
Liz Holt
Debbie Mathlouthi
Brenda Hargreaves
Associate Director of
adult provider
services
Associate Director of
children provider
services
Risk Auditor
28/05/08
27/05/08
Tracey Keith
Head of community
nursing
CDNA staff side
27/05/08
Colin Norris
Unison staff side
27/05/08
Ruth Roberts
Director of Provider
Services
27/05/08
Infection Control
Nurse
Infection Control
Nurse
27/05/08
(NLPCT)
Tricia Cross
Donna Taylor
27/05/08
27/05/08
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 14 of 26
Signature
NHS Blackpool and NHS
North Lancashire
Document Reference Number: NHSB/SPD/RISK/17/2008
12.0 APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1
Estates Procedure – Working at Height Flowchart
APPENDIX 2
Working at Height Risk Assessment Form / Hierarchy of
Control Measures
APPENDIX 3
Fragile Surfaces Permit to Work
APPENDIX 4
Ladder Checklist
APPENDIX 5
Ladder Register
APPENDIX 6
Inspection Checklist
Procedure For Working At Height In The Works Department
May 2008
Page 15 of 26
Appendix 1
Estates Procedure
Working at Height Flowchart
Yes
Can the work at height be
avoided?
Carry out work
safely from
ground level
No
Identify who will carry out the task
Does a risk assessment already exist?
Yes
No
No
Return to base and ensure a
new risk assessment is
completed for this task
Is it relevant to the task?
Yes
Introduce all the controls identified in the risk
assessment
No
STOP!!
Do not continue with
the task until all
safety measures are
in place
Yes
No
Ensure staff are Informed, Instructed, Trained in the work equipment and height awareness
follow HSE guidance, “toolbox talk’s” advice from risk management
Yes
Carry out the task using all work equipment provided for safety following all information
from training
Monitor the effectiveness of the controls to ensure protection of all persons affected
by inspections, supervision spot checks, reviewing accidents and near misses
Appendix 2
Working at Height Risk Assessment Form
Service
Department
Job site
Job Location
Description of Work Activity Complexity and most Suitable Method of Working
DOES THIS TASK HAVE TO TAKE PLACE WORKING
AT HEIGHT
Yes
Continue with assessment
No
Use alternative method
Frequency of Exposure / Time to Complete Task
<30 min
>30 min
< 2 hrs
IS THE WORK ON OR NEAR A FRAGILE
SURFACE
>2 hrs
Yes
<4 hrs
>4 hrs
1 day
1 week
1 week
+
Issue a permit to work system
No
Yes
Controls to eliminate / reduce risk
FALLING OBJECTS
No
HAS A PLANNED PROGRAMME OF
INSPECTIONS BEEN SET FOR THE
EQUIPMENT
CAN WEATHER CONDITIONS ENDANGER
WORKERS
ARE HEAVY OR AWKWARD ITEMS
REQUIRED AT THE WORKLPLACE
ARE ADDITIONAL HAZARDS PRESENT
I.E. FUMES, OVERHEAD POWER CABLES
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
CONDITION OF GROUND SURFACE
No
IDENTIFY HOW WASTE MATERIALS
WILL BE MANAGED
Controls to eliminate / reduce risk
Complete manual handling assessment, consult ladder
guidance, consider mechanical handling aids
HEIRACHY OF CONTROL MEASURES
Are staff
trained
Explanation of boxed ticked
Can an existing safer
place at height be
used
Fixed Scaffold
Mobile Tower Scaffold
Scissor Lift
Cherry Picker
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Telescopic Boom /
Forklift Truck / other
form of MEWP
Yes
Others including pulpit
steps etc.
Ladders inc step
ladders
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Work restraints
fall arrest equipment,
rope access etc
Airbags, nets, landing
mats etc
Information Instruction
Training Supervision
No
Identify
Refer to safe use of ladders procedure if not appropriate
eliminate from hierarchy
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
5
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Is an Emergency Procedure in
place for this task
Consequence
Score
Yes
No
X
Likelihood
Score
=
Residual Risk
Score
Tasks with Residual Risk Scores between 15 and 25 should not be started until additional controls are introduced.
Contact the risk management department for further advice and guidance.
Tasks with residual risk score of 10 will be generally well managed / Do not expect it to happen but it is possible, task
can go ahead with a higher level of supervision. Moves should be made immediately to introduce the additional
controls necessary to reduce the likelihood further.
Tasks with residual risk score of 5 will have the situation well managed / cant believe the incident will happen with
these controls in place. Task can go ahead and must be accompanied by supervision. Monitor to ensure all controls
are maintained.
Can any further improvements be made to this method of working for this task
To be completed after task has been successfully undertaken
Signed
Date
Review Period
AN ADDITIONAL RISK ASSESSMENTS MUST BE UNDERTAKEN FOR ALL WORK EQUIPMENT USED
FOR WORKING AT HEIGHTS
Appendix 3
FRAGILE SURFACES PERMIT TO WORK
Permit Number
Exact Location
Building
I, (print name) …………………………………….. authorise that work is to be carried out on or near a fragile surface, and
that
1. persons working on the task are aware of all local fire procedures.
2. means of communication is available and being used.
3. ground floor below the fragile surfaces is unoccupied during the course of the work and that suitable precautions
warning people of the dangers are in place.
4. If hot wok is being undertaken suitable fire precautions are in place.
5. all persons requiring to work near or on the fragile surface are aware of this permit, understand the requirements of this
permit and have signed to acknowledge the requirements on them.
This permit id valid until Date ……………………… Time ……………………..
Signed ……………………………………
Job Details
Date……………….
Time of issue ……………….
Hazards and Limitations
Roof Lights
Glass
Fibre Cement Sheets
Plastic
Metal Sheets
Wood Wool Slabs
Plaster
Others
Identify
Precautions
A working at height risk assessment has been completed
Do not pass near a fragile surface
Do not work on fragile surface
Safe access is required to the
place of work as the traffic route
passes close to a fragile surface.
Is a safe working platform
required as the place of work is
on a fragile surface
move to step 1
move to step 2
Step 1
Identify the guard rails, platforms or coverings required to support the weight of a person, materials and equipment
accessing the place of work
Step 2
Identify the platforms or coverings required to support the weight of a person, materials and equipment at the place of
work.
Personal Protective Equipment
Are harnesses or landlines to be used
Yes
contact the risk management department
No
Are other relevant permits currently in operation
Yes
identify
No
Do other persons need to be aware of the work being undertaken
Yes
No
identify
Have they been informed
Yes
No
I, requiring legitimate access to the area of the fragile surface.
1. I Have read and understand the requirements of this permit and the information described above has been explained to
me.
2. I am familiar with any method statements that may exist for completing this task.
3. I am familiar with any timescales placed on this permit.
4. I will ensure that access to the fragile surface is restricted to persons identified on the permit and I will secure all access
points when the roof is vacated.
5. I will comply with the requirements of this permit.
Print Name
Sign in
Time
Sign out
Time
Handback / Cancellation
I confirm that that the work has been completed or cancelled and checked by myself and the area left in a safe
and tidy condition.
Signature of person authorising the permit.………………………………. Date ……………………
Appendix 4
Ladder Checklist
Department
Ladder Identification
Number
Type of Ladder
Location of Ladder
single
extension
step
platform
Name of Inspector
Date and Time of
Last Inspection
Substance of
Ladder
Date and Time of
Inspection
Date and Time of
Next Inspection
Ladder Inspection
Is the ladder id prominently displayed on the ladder
Is the ladder free from modification, such as shortening, being
painted etc
Are the stiles (uprights) free of cracks, damage or excessive wear
particularly at the head or foot of the ladder
Are all the rungs (steps) clean and free of cracks, damage or
excessive wear
Are all the rungs (steps) and fittings in place (e.g. slip resistant feet
on metal ladders etc)
Are the rungs and stiles secure and free from movement
Are all tie rods in place free from damage and secure are all rivets
and bolts tight and in place.
Are all side guides in place free from damage and secure are all
rivets and bolts tight and in place.
Are all rung locks in place free from damage and secure are all
rivets and bolts tight and in place.
Are all hinges in place free from damage and secure are all rivets
and bolts tight and in place.
Are all pail shelf in place free from damage and secure are all rivets
and bolts tight and in place.
Are all spreader braces in place free from damage and secure are
all rivets and bolts tight and in place.
Is the ladder free from distortion or warping
Is the ladder free form cracks, corrosion or dents etc
Are all fittings such as ropes, pulleys or hinges free from wear or
damage
For fixed ladders in the workplace currently in use
Is it positioned correctly (1 out for every 4 up; approx 75% pitch)
Is it positioned on a firm level surface
Is it correctly footed and / or secured (tied off) to prevent it slipping
or moving
Does it extend1.05m (3.5ft) above the platform it is being used to
access or is an alternative handhold provided on the landing
surface
Has the ladder passed inspection and is fit for use
Y
N
wood
aluminium
fibreglass
steel
Comments
If the answer to any of the above questions is NO the ladder should be immediately de
commissioned and a notice placed upon it stating “DO NOT USE THIS LADDER” and all faulty
reported. This ladder must not be used until all the faults have been corrected.
Signature of Person Completing Inspection
Appendix 5
Ladder Register
Department
Material
…………………………………….
Type
Identity
Number
Location
Date of
Registration
Inspected Dates
Appendix 6
Inspection Checklist
Has the duty holder identified activities and precautions involving work at height. Has the hierarchy
been considered when identifying such activities and precautions.
Work is being carried out on or near to fragile surfaces and guardrails, coverings or other suitable
precautions have not been provided
Are warning signs fixed at the approach to fragile roofs when access is needed or foreseeable e.g.
cleaning valley gutters?
Guard rails, mid rails toe boards or similar barriers should be rigid enough to prevent a person or
materials falling and their dimensions should comply with current standards
Stairs Provided with robust handrails?
General Scaffolds Erected, altered and dismantled by competent people?
Provided with edge protection as listed above?
Provided with fully boarded working platforms?
Inspected by a competent person at least once per week?
Tower Scaffolds
Are there any tower scaffolds on site? (Even if dismantled or hired)
Have persons erecting and using towers had appropriate training?
Are guardrails and toe boards provided?
Is the height of the tower scaffold no more than 3 times the minimum base dimension? (or in
accordance with the manufacturers instructions on height to base ratio)
Are wheels locked when in use and is the working platform empty when moved?
Is safe access to the working platform provided? i.e. through internal trap doors
If a tower in use has any of the following faults, no guard rails and toe boards, no safe working
platform, height exceeds 3 times the base dimension and the manufacturers height v base dimension
cannot be clarified by the duty holder and the tower is not tied to an adjacent structure, or the tower
is not vertical or a ladder is being used from the top of it.
Mobile Elevating Working Platform (MEWP)
Should be safe plant i.e. correct type for the job, provided with adequate guard rails, toe boards,
thoroughly examined in the last 6 months, properly maintained and inspected.
Should be used on a safe site i.e. firm level ground which is free from slopes, holes etc and can
cope with the load and segregated from other site traffic to avoid collisions.
Should have a safe operator who is trained and experienced.
No segregation, MEWP or part of it, seen working at height in a live highway e.g. street lighting work,
bridge repair and there is a risk of vehicle impact. Poor on site segregation and unsafe practices
seen e.g. driving at speed in vicinity of MEWP being used for work at height.
Ground conditions poor or not considered so there is a risk of an overturn or collapse e.g. failure to
establish strength of ducts, manhole covers, suspended floors or MEWP wheels or outriggers seen
sinking into the ground.
No fall protection equipment provided or incompatible/inappropriate equipment used and unsafe
practices seen e.g. climbing onto mid rails and or leaning over the edge to the extent that there is a
risk of a fall. Inadequate anchorages in MEWP for fall protection. (Note, if there is still a residual risk
of impact or persons falling, the expectation is that fall protection equipment should still be used).
No evidence of MEWP being thoroughly examined in the last 6 months, no defects visible
Working Platforms on Fork Lift Trucks
Non-integrated platforms are acceptable for occasional, not routine use for work at height.
Preference should be given to purpose built equipment for work at height such as tower/general
scaffolding and MEWPS
Platform should be compatible with the truck.
Platform should be secured to the forklift truck
Should have adequate edge protection as described above
Yes
No
Should be thoroughly examined every 6 months
Truck operators should be properly trained
If people are being raised or lowered on the forks or a pallet to work at height
Where training is taking place using rope evacuation equipment from mechanical handling equipment
and there is no safety rope and a competent person is not doing training.
Where training is not taking place and there is no risk assessment of the possibility of an operator
being stranded at high level and rope evacuation equipment is available and will be used if an
operator becomes stranded and the operator has not received appropriate training from a competent
person to ensure a safe rescue.
Work Restraint
Must ensure the wearer cannot reach a position in which a fall could occur
Collective Safeguards for arresting Falls
Nets and airbags should be positioned as close to the level at which persons are working so that any
fall height is minimised
Should be sufficient clearance below the net to avoid injury due to a collision with an obstruction if a
person fell into the net
Nets should not have any gaps at their edges through which a person could fall.
Nets should be securely anchored.
Requirements for Personal Fall Protection Systems
Personal fall protection systems should only be used if risk assessment demonstrates that the work
can be done safely while using the equipment and the use of other, safer (collective) work equipment
is not reasonably practicable.
Users of personal fall protection systems should be trained.
Components of personal fall protection systems i.e. harnesses, lanyards, ropes, connectors,
anchorages etc should be compatible, identifiable and regularly inspected.
Fall arrest lanyards may need protection from sharp edges and there must be adequate clearance for
the lanyard and energy absorber to deploy.
Users must ensure inertia reel systems are anchored in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
(usually above the user). (Often such systems are not designed for anchorage at foot level)
Users of Fall arrest systems should have a rescue plan in place.
Where lanyards are in use and there is visual evidence of significant defects or damage (cuts,
abrasion see INDG 367)
Scaffolding (Not tower) is being erected/dismantled/altered with no safety harness and associated
equipment.
Harnesses and lanyards are used frequently and there is no inspection regime (See INDG 367) but
no evidence of defects.
Ladders
Question whether ladders/step ladders are the most appropriate equipment for access or a place of
work given the circumstances (including duration) of the job. Would it be safer to use other work
equipment e.g. tower scaffold?
Have workers been instructed in the safe use of ladders e.g. 1 metre out for every 4 metres up, and
the need to secure?
Are adequate precautions in place to stop a ladder from slipping or falling i.e. tied? (Recent research
has concluded that an un-tethered, naked ladder is unlikely to be able to provide sufficient stability to
cope with the demands of a person getting on or off it at its upper reaches).
Are ladders in good condition?
Are ladders well maintained and inspected regularly?
Portable leaning ladders are in use or are available for use and have defects such as splits in timber
ladders, cracked welds at rung/stile connections on metal ladders, missing rungs, play between
rungs and stiles, missing anti slip devices at the top and bottom, bent stiles at the bottom. (Note, for a
pre harm prosecution to be considered, the defective ladder would have to be found in use and the
defect would have to be obviously dangerous)
Signs of damage or defects that are not likely to result in imminent risk of serious personal
injury e.g. minor dents in rungs. (IN requires an individual ladder to be inspected or an
inspection system to be implemented by a competent person)
Ladders are available for use for work where a person could fall a distance liable to cause
personal injury and consideration has not been given to whether ladders are the most
appropriate equipment for the work.
Homemade ladders are in use and the duty holder cannot demonstrate compliance with an
appropriate standard
Contractors
Does the duty holder use contractors (including for small scale work such as minor repairs,
lighting maintenance, as well as large scale work like redecoration, construction/installation
work)?
Does the duty holder have appropriate arrangements for managing contractors in relation to
H&S e.g. pre meeting, induction (site rules), establishing contacts, sign in sign out,
segregation arrangements periodic monitoring of their work etc.?
Has the duty holder enquired about a contractor’s competence to work at height?
Contractors are used regularly for work at height and no procedures exist for managing
contractors