Ladder and Height Safety: Ensuring Safety While Working Above Ground

Working at heights, especially on ladders, brings significant risks that are prevalent across numerous industries in New Zealand. Due to the high number of severe injuries and fatalities resulting from falls, it's paramount to ensure ladder safety and an understanding of working at heights.

Key Topics on Ladder Safety:

• Ladders as a Last Resort: Ladders should only be considered for lower-risk tasks and short durations.
• Platform Ladders: These are often a safer alternative.
• Ladder Positioning: Never stand on the top step. Always work from at least 2 steps down. Ladders should be perpendicular, at least 2m from the edge, and used on the side farthest from the edge.
• Ladder Standards: Make sure your ladder complies with the Aus/NZ standards.
• Correct Size: Use the right-sized ladder for the task and the person.
• Safety Checks: Before every use, inspect the ladder for any defects or issues.
• Safe Use Protocols: Always maintain 3 points of contact, don't overreach, and ensure the ladder is used on level surfaces. When in semi-concealed positions, have a spotter. In high-traffic areas, set up an exclusion zone.

Important Reminders:

• Regularly inspect all equipment.
• The right anchor point can prevent falls, while the wrong one can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.
• Always conduct risk assessments for site-specific hazards.
• Ensure scaffolding is set up by trained professionals and regularly inspect it.
• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) consistently.

Height Safety Essentials:

• Risk Elimination: Always assess if working at a height can be avoided altogether.
• Planning: Ensure safe access, edge protection, suitable PPE, and adequate training.
• Guard-Rails: For work above 3 metres, proper guardrails and mid-rails are a must. If not feasible, employ personal suspension or fall prevention equipment.
• Inspections: Regularly walk around the site with a checklist to spot and manage potential hazards.
• Weather Considerations: Wet, windy, or icy conditions can elevate risks.
• Training: Ensure that workers are trained and physically fit for the tasks.
• Alternate Methods: Consider methods like assembling structures on the ground and then placing them at heights, thus reducing the time spent working at elevated levels.

Feedback and Communication:

For suggestions, improvements, or any other feedback regarding health and safety on site, reach out to our Health and Safety Officer at dan@maxpeople.co.nz.

Safety is paramount. Always stay informed, vigilant, and safe.