Across the spectrum of industrial and commercial pursuits, it is often a necessity to complete essential tasks at heights. In construction, mining, and other project-based fields, working in precarious positions can play a significant role in job completion. And on tall buildings or other structures, even routine maintenance requires rope access or other methods of working at heights. In every case, the risks involved in such work must be minimised. Reliable height safety is a vital part of a safe, legally-adhering workplace. Does yours meet the standards?
Why is Height Safety So Imperative?
Working at heights presents a potential risk to those performing their tasks. A fall from an elevated area is likely to cause injury or death, and it happens with frightening regularity: falls from heights are one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities. Yet with the right fall protection using appropriate equipment such as anchor points, rails, ladders, and more, height safety can prevent such catastrophes and make for a secure, more productive workplace.
When it comes to height safety in Sydney, Abseilers United are a respected company with years of industrial rope access experience. Safety at heights is what we do, and we assist clients of all types to develop and maintain dependable height safety networks. Every customer and every industry presents different needs when it comes to height safety; it’s pros like us that work to ensure each system works flawlessly. Across the board, there are several elements essential to a secure height safety program. When undergoing a height safety audit, inspection, or a first-time install, Abseilers United will utilise most—if not all—of these important elements.
7 Elements of Height Safety Sydney & Beyond
1. A thorough height safety plan, with regular inspections and maintenance
Step one involves generating a comprehensive height safety plan adapted to meet the unique needs of your business. This includes initial site assessments, system design, and installation. Your height safety needs may vary depending on your industry or focus, but you can feel confident in the expertise of a team like Abseilers United.
Following the installation of your WHS approved system, we can also provide continuing height safety services. This includes performing regular inspections to assure the good condition of your equipment as well as any necessary repairs or adjustments. A height safety audit is also an integral piece for any Sydney organisation seeking to retain their WHS certification to work at heights.
2. Fall arrest systems & anchor points
Fall protection is a must-have for working at heights. This assures full caution against falls for high-rise window cleaners, contractors, or other labourers working in high places. In accordance with the Work Health and Safety Act, when work is done within 2m of an unprotected edge, and could result in a fall of 2m or more, fall protection is absolutely required. Fall arrest systems comprise a range of elements working together to reduce the weight of an individual working via rope access (minimising fall potential) and also to serve as a guard against sudden falls. Anchor points are one of the main ingredients, giving safety lines a secure place to attach and bear loads.
3. Safety lines
Safety lines are another prime element in a fall arrest system, and a big part of height safety. These lines protect those doing work on roofs or along the walls of high structures. Safety lines can be fixed to almost any structure via anchor points, but provide flexibility and movement to those using them. The rope access allows the job to get done successfully all while maintaining the utmost level of safety for the worker. Abseilers United is pleased to advise on the top quality safety lines we use and recommend.
4. Track systems
Track systems, or rail systems, are another aspect of an effective fall arrest setup. These are a type of anchor point that allows for a wide range of mobility. Installation possibilities for track systems are versatile because they can be affixed to a range of materials, and can be curved and manipulated to fit in tight, unobtrusive spaces. A T-slot means that attaching brackets and safety lines is simple and efficient.
5. Ladders
Falls from ladders are an alarmingly common cause of workplace injury, so it is of greatest importance that these, too, are viewed with a focus on height safety. Ladders play a role in construction and other trades, giving workers access to hard to reach areas. Other types of ladders are permanent or must be used in narrow spaces. Let a Sydney height safety expert like Abseilers United assist you in testing and improving all ladders used as part of your work or within your property. We can install appropriate anchor points, support brackets, and ensure all ladders used are rated for complete safety (and meet WHS standards).
6. Walkways and handrails
Customers, guests, and others who visit your property or site also need to be protected. At heights, walkways and handrails are a must. These keep individuals from coming too near to a dangerous edge, as well as create a necessary part of fall arrest systems. Using only the best crafted non-corrosive materials, Abseilers United can implement guardrails, handrails, and walkway protections.
7. The right Sydney height safety provider.
Of course, it goes without saying that a height safety system requires an expert installation by an accredited business. Abseilers United are known as the superlative Sydney height safety professionals, and it is our goal to make Australian workplaces as secure and risk-free as possible. With years of experience serving industrial, commercial, and even private clients, we have extensive knowledge of rope access, and offer everything your Sydney business needs for safety at heights—these 7 essential elements, and so much more.
Want to learn more? We offer an obligation-free quote. Get in touch today.