The Two Focal Points When Working at Height

There are significantly more risks when working at height versus working at ground level. For this reason, there becomes an emphasis on planning and the use high-quality equipment. Here are a few items to focus on when concerned about the safety of your workers:

Devise a Rescue Plan & Stick to It

Height safety is so much about being cognizant of what's going on around and also being prepared should something go terribly wrong. For project managers, it's always important that you train your worker to know exactly what to do should they find themselves or a coworker in a dangerous position. The first step is to devise a plan of action should someone become injured. Obviously, your first goal is to remove them from the situation as quickly as possible to avoid serious injury, but you also want to make sure that no one else could become potentially injured as well. Create a plan that is fast and safe for all parties and then stick to it. You should go over your plan in detail with the crew and then practice multiple rescue drills until everyone is familiar with their role. The added practice will help your employees be mindful of potential ways they may find themselves trapped and also how they can help others in the same position.

Equipment

Just as you've developed and practised a safety plan for the job, the next item is to prepare for the equipment that you'll need to use for the project. Your crew should be comfortable using the equipment, so the best approach is to have them use the equipment prior to beginning the project so that they can safely operate the tools. Part of your job as a project manager will be to make sure that your crew comes to work each day focused on the task, so be sure to limit the amount of distractions. There should be no personal music, all workers should be completely coherent and there should absolutely be no mobiles allowed on the construction site.

Another part of your job is to maintain a line of open communication between yourself and your workers. If a worker is concerned about the equipment, building plan or safety plan, they should feel comfortable to come to you and say so, particularly if it's because they do not feel they had enough training and preparation.

Your equipment should be thoroughly checked throughout the duration of your building to ensure the safety of your workers. If there are signs of wear and tear, immediately rent or buy replacement equipment. All ladders should be secure and placed on level ground that is completely firm.

Consult with someone from a company like Australian Height Safety Services to learn about safety equipment that can be incorporated into everyday work situations.