WORKING AT HEIGHTS CS-PTW-HAZ-02

Transcription

1 CS ENERGY PROCEDURE FOR WORKING AT HEIGHTS CS-PTW-HAZ-02 Responsible Officer: Corporate PTW Administrator Responsible Executive: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) DOCUMENT HISTORY Key Changes Prepared By Checked By Approved By Date Rev 1 Original Issue of Document 13/08/1995 Rev 2 Updated definitions and wording PTW Committee PTW Committee 04/06/1998 Rev 3 Reviewed CS-OHS-14 and renumbered PTW Committee PTW Committee 29/12/2000 Rev 4 Complete review and reformat to new CS D Clarke A Brown A Brown 08/02/2012 Energy Rev 5 Reviewed by H&S Taskforce D Clarke H&S Taskforce A Brown 03/09/2012 Rev 6 Update Appendix 2 Working at Heights D Clarke PTW Committee A Brown 27/03/2013 Cheat Sheet Minor Corrections D Clarke HSSE / PTW K Ussher 13/01/2014 Page 1

2 CONTENTS DOCUMENT HISTORY WORKING AT HEIGHTS PROCEDURES ON A PAGE PURPOSE SCOPE RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES Corporate PTW Administrator Site PTW Administrator Site Manager Superintendents and Supervisors Permits to Work Officer Officer in Charge (OIC) Person in Charge of Work (PICW) Work Party Height Safety Supervisor Health and Safety Team WHAT IS WORKING AT HEIGHTS? REQUIREMENTS FOR WORKING AT HEIGHTS How to Control Working at Heights Risk Temporary Work Platforms Guardrails or Barriers Scaffolding Light Duty Suspended Scaffold Elevating work platforms Work Boxes Fixed Ladders Edge Protection Travel Restraint System Fall Arrest Systems Hazards with Individual Fall-Arrest Systems Fall Distance Anchorage Points Harnesses Lanyards Fall Arrest Platform or Net Page 2

3 6.10 Control Options for Fragile or Brittle Roofs Falling Objects Industrial Rope Access Systems OTHER WORKING AT HEIGHTS HAZARDS Electrical Exclusion Zones Adverse Weather Vapours, Fumes and Gases EMERGENCY PROCEDURES AND RESPONSE CONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION Temporary Guardrails Harnesses, Slings, Lanyards and Anchor Points STORAGE AND CLEANING TRAINING AND COMPETENCY S WORKING AT HEIGHTS CONTROL CHECKLIST PTW AUDITING AND REVIEW PROCESS PROCEDURE REVIEW DEFINITIONS REFERENCES APPENDIX Appendix 1 Graphic of S1972 Working at Heights Control Checklist Appendix 2 Work at Heights Cheat Sheet Appendix 3 - Calculating your Potential Fall Distance Page 3

4 1 WORKING AT HEIGHTS PROCEDURES ON A PAGE Process: Working at Heights Is work above 2m or risk of injury if worker fell? Risk of falling Yes people or objects Can People be excluded from the area of risk? Yes Apply for PTW as usual without hazard No Apply for a PTW with one of the following: Fallings Objects in the job JSEA Working at Height Control Checklist Unprotected Edges Control Checklist Document falling objects hazard & risk on JSEA Can the height risk be eliminated? Can the job/part of the job be performed on the ground, lifted into place? Install Control Measures as directed on Control Checklist No Install Control Measures to reduce risk Can the height risk be isolated? No Can handrails with midrails and kickboards or barriers be installed? Refer to CS-PTW- HAZ-05 Unprotected edges for more information Use screened scaffolding, debris nets, cantilever platforms and lanyards to secure your tools and equipment Provide barricades, exclusion zones, overhead protection and safe access zones Yes Can the height risk be engineered out? No Can a fall restraint system be used? No Can a fall arrest system be used? Can scaffolds or elevating work platforms be used? Prevent people getting to an edge or secure to a ladder Minimise injury if fall occurs. To be used in conjunction with other controls No Document on job JSEA and monitor Variation to CS Energy procedure must be developed Including: Why established system cannot be used; risk assessments of proposed system; authorisation Work can proceed with the following: Employees are competent in the use of any fall system Inspect and maintain equipment Have suitable emergency response available Page 4

5 2 PURPOSE This procedure outlines the requirements for persons in control of and / or performing work at heights at all CS Energy sites. This procedure is designed to ensure the health and safety of personnel working at heights. It provides for a safe system of work by identification and subsequent control of work hazards associated with work at heights. The content of this procedure applies to all CS Energy sites and is applicable to CS Energy personnel and external contractors. 3 SCOPE This procedure details the requirements for safely working at heights on CS Energy s sites to prevent the risk of injury or illness and seeks to ensure that standards prescribed in the Workplace Health and Safety Act 2011 and Regulations 2011 legislation are satisfied. This procedure shall be read in conjunction with the requirements of other site specific procedures: CS-PTW-01 Permit To Work Manual CS-PTW-HAZ-05 Unprotected Edges CS-OHS-52 - Ladders 4 RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES 4.1 Corporate PTW Administrator Corporate PTW Administrator is responsible for ensuring that: This procedure is reviewed every 2 years. 4.2 Site PTW Administrator Site PTW Administrator is responsible for ensuring that: This procedure is complied with during normal business conditions; and An audit of this process is completed annually as a part of the annual PTW site review. 4.3 Site Manager Site Managers are responsible for: Implementation of this procedure; Ensuring sufficient resources are provided to effectively conduct working at heights; and Provision of appropriate training. 4.4 Superintendents and Supervisors Superintendents and Supervisors are responsible for: monitoring compliance with this procedure and the risk control measures being implemented by the work party members; provision of appropriate training and other support to all personnel in application of this procedure; Page 5

6 conducting and/or assisting personnel with JSEAs; and authorisation of a completed JSEA where the residual risk is moderate. 4.5 Permits to Work Officer The PTWO must ensure: The PTW Hazards section, Working at Heights, is selected for any work scope that involves working at heights; The Working at Heights Control Checklist is attached to the PTW prior to the transfer of the PTW to the OIC; and A copy of the Working at Heights Control Checklist is retained with the PTW documentation. 4.6 Officer in Charge (OIC) The OIC must ensure safe assessment, control implementation and overall safe working at heights practices in accordance with this procedure. They must ensure: The Working at Heights Control Checklist is attached to the PTW prior to the transfer of the PTW to the OIC; and The Working at Heights Control Checklist is completed as specified before work begins. 4.7 Person in Charge of Work (PICW) The PICW must ensure compliance with the safe assessment, control implementation and overall safe working at heights practices in accordance with this corporate procedure and the Working at Heights Control Checklist for the job. 4.8 Work Party Employees and contractors shall: Utilize the appropriate equipment provided for working at heights; Use ladders for means of access only and not work for prolonged period on ladders; Perform visual inspections on ladders and working at height equipment before use; Ensure working at height requirements are followed when work is being performed where there is the potential to fall causing injury; and Report and tag as out of service any faulty or defective equipment. 4.9 Height Safety Supervisor Height Safety Supervisor shall: Approve Working at Heights plan as specified on Working at Height Control Checklist Assess anchor point suitability and safe systems of work for working at height Provide advice on work at heights industry trends and issues. Page 6

7 4.10 Health and Safety Team Health and Safety Team shall: Approve Working at Heights plan as specified on Working at Height Control Checklist Provide advice on work at heights industry trends and issues. 5 WHAT IS WORKING AT HEIGHTS? Working at height is: Where a person while at work or other person in the vicinity is exposed to a risk of a fall at 2 metres or above or other scenario reasonably likely where a fall can cause injury to the worker or other person. This include circumstances in which the worker or the other person is: o o o o o o In or on plant or a structure that is at an elevated level; In or on plant or a structure that used to gain access to an elevated level; In the vicinity of an opening through which a person could fall; In the vicinity of an edge over which a person could fall; On or in the vicinity of a surface through which a person could fall; On or near the vicinity of a slippery, sloping or unstable surface. Work may include but is not limited to inspection, repair, installation, maintenance, construction and or demolition. Working at height refers to any work activities being undertaken at an elevated position. CS Energy requires a PTW and a safe system of work for all work 2 metres and above or other scenario where it is reasonably likely for a fall to cause injury to the worker or other person (includes work in or around unprotected edges). If the work requires lifting of flooring or removal of handrail that produces an unprotected edge refer to CS-PTW-HAZ-05 Unprotected Edges. Requirements of this procedure are to be complied with also if it satisfies the working at heights definition (e.g. removal of flooring as well as working at heights). 6 REQUIREMENTS FOR WORKING AT HEIGHTS All activities that involve working at height shall be work controlled by a Permit to Work using the Permit to Work system. Where the PTW system is not applicable, a risk assessment process should be conducted and appropriate controls implemented. Completion of the S1972 Working at Heights Control Checklist (Refer to Appendix 2 Work at Heights Cheat Sheet) is required to complement the job JSEA to ensure control measures are implemented that prevent a person from falling including: Performing the work from ground level (Elimination); Installing temporary or permanent edge protection (Engineering); Utilising a mobile elevating work platforms (EWP) or work boxes (Engineering); Utilising a scaffold system (Engineering); Fencing and or covering holes and voids (Isolation); and Travel restraint systems or fall arrest systems (Engineering). Page 7

8 Where this is not possible measures that arrest a person s fall, primarily through the use of a fall arrest system, must be implemented. Protection from falling objects must also be provided. Hierarchy of control is to be used to ensure highest level (reasonable practical) controls are implemented. 6.1 How to Control Working at Heights Risk There are several ways to control the risks of falls. The highest possible level of protection is to be used for each job. Use the hierarchy of control to determine the control ranking. In managing the risk of falls, WHS Regulation requires the following specific control measures to be implemented, where it is reasonably practicable to do so: 1. Can the need to work at height be avoided to eliminate the risk of a fall? Carry out any work that involves the risk of a fall on the ground 2. Can the fall be prevented by working on solid construction? A building or structure with safe access and egress Permanently install guard rails around edges Construction of a scaffold or temporary work platform to minimise fall risk 3. Can the risk of a fall be minimised by providing and maintaining a safe system of work? Provide a fall prevention device (e.g. installing guardrails) if it reasonably practical to do so; or Providing a work positioning system (e.g. an industrial rope access system) if it is not reasonably practical to provide a fall prevention device; or Providing a fall-arrest system, so far as is reasonably practicable, if it is not reasonably practicable to provide a fall prevention device or a work positioning system. In some cases a combination of control measures may be necessary (e.g. using a safety harness while working from an elevated work platform). You must ensure that the control measures you implement remain effective. This includes checking that the control measures are fit for purpose; suitable for the nature and duration of the work; are installed and used correctly. Refer to following sections for further information. 6.2 Temporary Work Platforms A temporary work platform is a working platform, other than a permanently installed fixed platform, used to provide a working area for the duration of the job. The design of the platform prevents workers from falling (e.g. scaffolds, elevated work platforms, mast climbers, work boxes, building maintenance units, portable or mobile fabricated platforms). When used, risks must be controlled through the use of stable and secure work platforms (such as scaffolding or other forms of portable work platform) with guard railing or fencing as appropriate Guardrails or Barriers Continuous guard railing satisfying the requirements of AS 1657 shall be provided on the side and ends of all platforms and walkways, except at points of access from a stairway or ladder, or where there is a permanent structure not more than 100mm distance from the edge of the platform or walkway Scaffolding Where appropriate, scaffolding systems may be used. Scaffolding is to be erected, removed or modified only by competent persons. Any scaffold where a person could fall greater than 4 metres must be Page 8

9 erected, removed or modified by or under the direct supervision of a licensed scaffolder. Under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 a person with management or control of a scaffold must not allow the use of a scaffold from which a person or object could fall for more than 4 metres unless a competent person provide written confirmation that the scaffold has been completed. Requirements for fall protection from a height still apply. Scaffolding must comply with AS/NZS 1576: Scaffolding Series & AS/NZS 4576 Guidelines for Scaffolding. CS Energy uses the Scafftag system to assist in identification of safe and authorized scaffolding. Each site is to have a scaffold register that identifies all scaffold erected on site and inspection dates. Installed scaffolding is to be inspected by a competent person: a) Before its first use; and b) As soon as practicable, and before its next use, after an occurrence that might reasonably be expected to affect the stability or adequacy of the scaffold or its supporting structure, such as a severe storm, and c) Before its use following repairs, and d) At least every 30 days. Prefabricated scaffolds are of the same type and not mixed components unless approved by the manufacturer. Safe access to and egress from the scaffold is provided. Edge protection (hand-rails, mid-rails and toeboards) is provided at every open edge of a platform. Any observed defects are to be reported for rectification. The Site Manager or Superintendent must ensure that appropriate repairs, alterations and additions are carried out and the scaffold and its supporting structures are reinspected by a competent person before the scaffold is used Information, Instruction and Training for Workers using Scaffolds Where work is performed from a scaffold, the workers must understand the following: What loads the scaffold can safely take; Not to make any unauthorised alterations to the scaffold; Working platforms need to be kept clear of debris and obstructions along their length; and Incomplete or defective scaffolds must never be accessed Light Duty Suspended Scaffold A suspended scaffold incorporates a suspended platform that is capable of being raised when in use (e.g. swinging stages, double rope scaffolds, work cages and false cars) There are specific safety considerations for swinging stages including: The working load and specifications are in accordance with AS Scaffolding Suspended Scaffolding Persons operating light duty suspended stages are trained in safe operation Persons installing or servicing a light duty suspended stage hold a license for advanced rigging or advanced scaffolding Where the swing stage is suspended by two wire ropes to each winch, a safety harness and restraint lanyard is attached to a suitable anchor point of the winging stage. Page 9

10 6.2.4 Elevating work platforms Figure 1 - Example of light duty suspended scaffold with two wire ropes to each winch Where mobile Elevating Work Platforms (EWP) are used, the manufacturer guidelines shall be followed. All personnel who operate the plant shall be trained and competent in its use. Where a cherry picker style EWP is used with a boom length greater than 11m the operator must hold a prescribed occupation certificate (or be under the direct supervision of a person holding a prescribed occupation for EWP under training). All persons in boom-type EWP shall wear a full body harness and energy absorber type lanyard attached to an anchorage point in the basket of the EWP. As set out in AS Cranes, Hoists and Winches Safe Use Mobile Elevated Work platforms EWP s are designed as a work area and not for access purposes. Persons should only egress from an elevated EWP in an emergency or if a thorough risk assessment identifies that as the only practicable means of gaining access to an area. EWP shall only be used on firm level surfaces unless the equipment is designed for non-level surfaces and the manufacturer s instructions state this. Any EWP used shall be inspected for defect prior to use and records of pre-start inspections kept (Appendix 1). Figure 3 An example of a boomtype elevating work platform. The safety harness and lanyard are not shown for the purpose of clarity. Figure 2 An example of a scissorlift elevating work platform Work Boxes A work box is a personnel-carrying device designed to be lifted from a forklift or suspended from a crane. The work box provides an elevated working area for persons working from the box. Persons using a workbox shall be attached, at all times, by a full body safety harness, lanyard and energy absorber to a suitable anchorage point located within the workbox (or to the main sling ring above the workers heads for a crane lift). Where a workbox is used with a crane, at least one person in the workbox must be competent in crane signals, for example a Dogger. Page 10

11 6.2.6 Fixed Ladders If a permanent ladder is used, fall protection must be provided where a free fall in excess of 6 metres is possible. Fall protection could include a cage around the ladder, or a fall arrest system attached to the ladder. Refer to CS-OHS-52 for more instruction relating to selection, use and work from ladders Edge Protection Permanent edge protection shall be installed by competent persons in accordance with the Building Code of Australia and Australian Standards 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders Design, construction and installation. The use of these systems will eliminate the need for other fall protection systems. Where permanent systems are not appropriate, temporary edge protection should be installed and constructed in accordance with AS/NZS 1576 Scaffolding and must meet the following requirements: Be installed in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer, an engineer or a competent person; Be able withstand the downward and outward force generated by anyone who may reasonably be expected to fall against it; and Guardrails should be between 900mm and 1100mm above the working surface and have a top rail, midrail and a toeboard, or include an infill panel that incorporates a kickplate. The top rail should be between 900mm and 1100mm above the working surface measured 300mm from the inside edge of the guardrail. Prior to installing a guardrail system at the edge of a roof, stage or flooring it is important to check that it is suitable for that location. Particular attention should be given to ensuring that the supporting members where the system is connected to them, can support the loads that will be generated should a person fall against the rails. 6.3 Travel Restraint System A travel restraint system is designed to prevent a person from entering into a position where they could fall. It will typically involve: 1. An anchor point (this may be a fixed point or a static line); 2. A static line, restraint line or lanyard with appropriate length and strength to attach the person to the anchor; and 3. A harness to securely attach the person to the lanyard. The purpose is to limit the horizontal movements from an anchor point or a horizontal life line so that the user is totally restrained from reaching a position where either free fall or limited free fall is possible. The travel restraint systems must: Be installed by a competent person; and Have an anchorage point with a capacity to withstand loadings that could be exerted on it in the normal operation of the system to restrain any person(s) who may reasonably be expected to use the system. Ensure the user can maintain secure footing without having to tension the restraint line and without the aid of any other hand hold or lateral support. Consider: Page 11

12 o o o The slope of the surface; The supporting material type; and The texture of the surface and whether it is likely to be wet or become wet or otherwise slippery. The static lines are fitted with shock absorbers when required by the Manufacturer of the equipment. Note: A fall arrest system should be used instead of a restraint system if any of the following situations apply: The user can reach a position where a fall is possible; The user has a restraint line that can be adjusted in length so that a free fall position can be reached; There is a danger where the user can fall through the surface (e.g. roofing material) The slope is over 15º; or There is any other reasonably likely misuse of the system which could lead to a free fall. 6.4 Fall Arrest Systems Figure 4 - Restrain Technique Options Fall arrest systems should only be used in situations when it is not reasonably practicable to use either temporary work platforms (scaffolding), guardrails or travel restraint systems. As a minimum, fall arrest systems must satisfy the requirements of AS/NZS 1891: Industrial fall arrest systems and devices. A fall arrest system is designed to catch a person once they have fallen from a height. It consists of: 1. An anchor point (this may be a fixed point or a static line); 2. A static line, restraint line or lanyard with appropriate length and strength to attach the person to the anchor; and 3. Personal energy absorber or restraint device and harness. A fall arrest system must (at minimum): Be designed by an engineer for the purpose (for proprietary fall arrest system); Be inspected and approved by a Height Safety Supervisor (or competent person) before the anchorage point is first used for custom designed/ installed systems; A fall arrest harness and lanyard, fitted with an energy shock absorption; Page 12

13 The lanyard assembly shall a working slack appropriate for the work area i.e. does not permit a free fall greater than 2m; Connection to a suitable anchor point and lanyard arrangement shall be such to minimise the vertical free fall distance to an absolute minimum i.e. the equipment and methods used limit the vertical free fall to less than 600mm; The optimum anchor position is above head. Where an inertia reel system is used it should be directly connected to the harness, with a limit operation of a 30 degree radius unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer; and Where hot work is to be conducted in or around the area where fall arrest system are in use, controls shall be implemented to protect the equipment against damage from sparks or heat Hazards with Individual Fall-Arrest Systems If a person using an individual fall-arrest system falls, the system may act as a pendulum, and in some situations the user may hit the ground (called swing down ) or swing back onto the building or structure (which is called swing back ). Swing down can occur if the lanyard slides back along the perimeter edge of the roof until it is vertical. When this happens, the person may hit the ground, or the lanyard may break as a result of its contact with the edge of the roof. Measures to address swing down include: The installation of guard rails; Placing the anchorage point at a right angle to the position of the lanyard at the perimeter edge (for example, by using a mobile anchorage) ; or The installation of a second anchorage point and belay devices (intermediate anchorages). Figure 6 During swing down the length of the lanyard and positioning of the anchor allow contact with the ground. Figure 5 During swing back the length of the lanyard and positioning of the anchor contact may allow the worker to hit the structure. 6.5 Fall Distance A fall arrest system shall be set up in a way that ensures the total distance a person is likely to fall during both the free and restrained parts of a fall, and including the maximum dynamic extension of all supporting components is a maximum free-fall distance of 2 metres. A fall arrest system should be set up in such a way that a person s fall is minimised to as short a free-fall distance as possible. This is general done by using an anchor above the working surface, or by using retracting style lanyards. When setting up the system consideration must be given to ensuring there is adequate distance available for the fall to be arrested without the person hitting any horizontal surface. Considerations of adequate clearance should take into account: The person s height; The height and position of the anchorage point; Page 13

14 The length of the lanyard; Any slack in the static line; Any stretching of the lanyard or static line when extended by a fall; Pendulum effect; The length of the energy absorber when extended by a fall; and Other relevant factors. A distance of approximately 5.5m is generally considered the minimum clearance required, allowing for maximum free fall, lanyard extension, and average height of the person. Where a static line is used this can dramatically increased the clearance required. Lanyard should not be used in conjunction with inertia reels as this can result in an excessive amount of free fall prior to the fall being arrested. 6.6 Anchorage Points Figure 7 - Total fall distance before this particular configuration would be effective in arresting a fall is 6.5m Anchorage points used to attach a harness and lanyard assembly must comply with requirements of AS1891.4: 2009 Section 3 and Table 3.1. The anchor point chosen shall be designed, rated and capable of withstanding the forces imposed. All anchorage points should be tested and approved by a competent person (i.e. Height Safety Supervisor and Engineer) before use. All permanently install anchor points are to have a sign/plaque attached or nearby the anchor point (sign detail: installer, installed date, ultimate strength rating and number of people who can be connected at one time). Approved Anchor Point Installer: Billy Bobs Date: 12/02/2012 Rating: 21kN Maximum People: 2 Figure 8 - Suggested Anchorage Point Signage Each anchorage point must be located so that a lanyard of the system can be attached to it before the person using the system moves into a position where the person could fall. Page 14

15 Type of Fall Description Anchor Point Strength Restrained Fall/Total Restraint Limited Free Fall Free Fall Single Person Free Fall Two Persons Limited to any situation where the person suffering the fall is partially restrained by a restraining device such as a pole strap, or is sliding down a slope on which it is normally possible to walk without a the assistance of handrail, and not possible of falling over a vertical edge. Limited to any situation where there is no risk in which the distance a person using the fall arrest harness system is likely to fall vertically before the system starts to take the load is not more than 600mm. Single point anchor in which the distance a person using the fall arrest harness system could fall vertically before the system starts to take the load is more than 600mm but no more than 2 metres. Two person point anchor in which the distance a person using the fall arrest harness system could fall vertically before the system starts to take the load is more than 600mm but no more than 2 metres. 6kN 12kN 15kN 21kN Note: Permanent fall arrest/restraint anchorage points shall be inspected at intervals not exceeding 12 months with consideration to the location, modes of use and environmental conditions. Permanent anchor points shall comply with AS Harnesses Harnesses, lanyard assemblies and personal shock absorbers used in a fall arrest system must comply with AS1891.1:1995. Body belts (a belt or harness assembly which is fastened around the waist) are not to be used for fall arrest scenarios as severe internal organ or spinal injury can result from transferred shock loadings. The use of body belts is permissible only under circumstances where control on a person s movement by means of a combination of a belt or harness, a line and a line anchorage which will physically prevent the person from reaching a position at which there is a risk of a free or limited free fall. Attachment hardware (lanyard hooks, karabiners, etc.) shall consist of double action mechanisms as a minimum. Where carabineers are used it is preferred that these are triple mechanisms. All karabiners shall be rated with a minimum breaking strength of 22kN. 6.8 Lanyards The lanyard must have a device to absorb the energy of a falling person and must limit the force applied to the person by a fall to not more than 6kN. Attachment hardware (lanyard hooks, karabiners, etc.) shall consist of double action mechanisms as a minimum. Where carabineers are used it is preferred that these are triple mechanisms. All karabiners shall be rated with a minimum breaking strength of 22kN. Page 15

16 Figure 9 - An example of a double lanyard. These must have double action connectors. Also example of person climbing with double lanyard 6.9 Fall Arrest Platform or Net A fall arrest platform is a temporary platform located below a work area. The platform should be of robust construction and designed with a full risk assessment to sustain the impact of a person falling onto it. A catch platform should be placed as close as possible to the underside of the work area to minimise the distance a person can fall from the work platform. The following requirements apply to Fall Arrest Platform: It must withstand the impact of a fall onto it of any person who may reasonably be expected to fall onto it. It must provide an unobstructed landing area, for a falling person, at least 675mm wide for the length of the platform. If the slope of the surface from which construction work is to be performed is not over 26º, the fall arresting platform must be not over 1m lower than the surface. It must have edge protection The gap between the inner edge and the fix structure should not exceed 225mm A fall arrest net is an industrial net which is attached to or supported by a scaffold or attached directly to the framework of a building, bridge or tower to catch a person who has fallen The following requirements apply to Fall Arrest Netting: It must be designed by an engineer or competent person for the purpose for which it is intended to be used; It must be made of material designed to minimise injury to a person falling into the net; and It must have energy absorbing characteristics to reduce the shock or injury to a person falling into the net It must be installed: o o o So that a person falling into the net will not hit anything below the net; In accordance with the manufacturer s instructions: and As close as possible below the surface from which the person who is to be protected by the net is to work, 6.10 Control Options for Fragile or Brittle Roofs Persons working on, or passing across roofs covered by brittle or fragile roofing materials (e.g. asbestos cement or skylights) are to be controlled by: Page 16

17 installing permanent walkways; or installing a fixed and secure fall protection cover, capable of withstanding the impact of any person who may reasonably be expected to fall onto it; or if this is not practicable, adequately secured temporary walkways or other means to prevent the fall of persons working on or passing across the roof Falling Objects Objects such as tools, parts, wastes or debris have the potential to cause significant injury when dropped from a height. Where the hazard of an object falling exists, the following controls should be implemented as appropriate: safe means of raising and lowering plant, materials and debris in the place of work; a secure physical barrier to prevent objects falling freely from structures; where it is not possible to provide such a barrier, measures to arrest the fall of objects which may include the platform of a scaffolding system or roof edge protection systems, or infill panels to for guardrails, screens or an overhead protective structure that catches falling objects; lanyards attached to the worker s wrist and to the tool or by the energy supply line of the tool or another suitable anchorage point by positive means; establishment of a exclusion zone with the necessary barriers and training of personnel in its observation Large items of hand operated plant that have the potential to fall from a height must have an additional safety line connected to the item and a suitable anchorage point. This would include, for example, a magnetic base drill. Small hand held tools must also be prevented from falling while being transported to and from the work place. This may require the tools being transported in a backpack, carry bag, or tool belt. The use of a backpack will allow both hands of the carrier to be free for climbing to or from the work area. The weight of tools being carried should not be excessive. Personal protective equipment to minimise the risks associated with falling objects should also be considered Industrial Rope Access Systems Industrial rope access systems are used for gaining access to and working at a workplace, usually by means of vertically suspended ropes. The main purpose of the system is to gain access to a work area rather than to provide backup fall protection. Other methods of accessing a workplace should be considered before rope access systems, as a high level of skill is needed for their safe use. All industrial rope access system must comply with AS/NZS 4488 Industrial Rope Access Systems Series. Where it is necessary for industrial rope access systems to be used ensure that: Operators are competent in the technique; Operators do not work alone in case of emergency assistance; Systems only used in a location where it is possible to provide prompt assistance or rescue if required; All equipment is checked regularly by a competent person; Prior to use, all fixed anchorage points are checked by a competent person before attaching the rope access lines; Page 17

18 Two independently anchored ropes are used for each person; All operators wear a full body harness; Where necessary appropriate PPE is used such as helmets, respirators, gloves, hearing protection goggles and masks; Barricades and signage are placed on all access area below the working area. Figure 10 - Operator using an ascender in an industrial rope access system 7 OTHER WORKING AT HEIGHTS HAZARDS 7.1 Electrical Lines (Exclusion Zones) Encroachment into exclusion zones is strictly prohibited. This includes both overhead powerlines and transformer earthing mats. Refer to Schedule 2 of the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 that lists of dimensions for the maximum exclusion zone around electrical parts. 7.2 Adverse Weather Personnel must ensure that the work at heights is postponed or ceased while weather conditions (high winds, electrical storms, rain, hail, fog, low light or extreme heat) may endanger health or safety. Similarly, works should be delayed if surfaces (ladder rungs, sloped roofs etc) are slippery. This restriction is not intended to apply to rescue procedures. 7.3 Vapours, Fumes and Gases Fume extractors, combustible or flammable fuel vents and or exhaust ports from generators may be located on roof areas. Walkways over vessels or baths may also potentially expose personnel to atmospheric contaminants. Personnel should identify any potential sources before accessing the area and implement appropriate controls. 8 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES AND RESPONSE Emergency response plans and processes for falling from heights are to be documented in site Emergency/First Response plans. They are to cover rescues from likely fall from height scenarios. The site ERT/FRT is to test these plans during training drills. When any fall-arrest systems are used appropriate ERT/FRT numbers are to be onsite to respond in the event of an emergency. Page 18

19 The provision for emergency response access/egress for each job is to be discussed/arranged with the site ERT/FRT before the job gets underway. The OIC/PICW shall discuss the emergency response process with work party during the pre-start for the job. Section 9 of the Managing Risk of Falls at the Workplace Code of Practice 2011 provides additional information relating to emergency procedures. 9 CONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT Where contractors that may be unfamiliar with CS Energy procedures are procured to undertake working at heights activities on site, relevant site specific information is to be communicated during pre-contract consultation, the site induction process and pre-work Supervisor/Site Contact/OIC communication. The following is to be communicated: Details regarding site specific rules and access restrictions; Details regarding site specific hazardous areas and the need to adopt signage requirements; and Details about the specific working at heights to be performed and any site specific hazards. Prior to contractors being procured and confirmed to undertake work on site, information such as the following is to be verified as part of contractor management processes and pre-work consultation: Work experience, training and competency evidence to verify that contractors are capable of performing the work and conversant with industry hazards; Work procedures or safe work method statements (SWMS) that identify key high-risk tasks, hazards, and controls to be implemented; and Details listing the plant and equipment to be brought onto site with respect to Australian Standard compliance, inspection and maintenance details (i.e. inspection records, logs, etc.) 10 MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION 10.1 Temporary Guardrails Temporary guardrails shall be inspected on each day they are required. This inspection is a visual check to ensure all components are in place and effective. Temporary guardrails shall also be inspected by a competent person every month to ensure they continue to meet the original design requirements. Where any guardrails are found to be incomplete or faulty the area shall be evacuated and measures taken to prevent access until the guard railing is fixed. A record of monthly inspections shall be made by the competent person and kept on record at the station for 5 years. Page 19

20 10.2 Harnesses, Slings, Lanyards and Anchor Points A trained and competent person in fall protection testing shall formally inspect all personal fall arrest equipment at the following intervals Device Type Personal equipment including harnesses, lanyards, assemblies, fall-arrest devices and common use devices such as ropes, slings, fall-arrest devices, mobile attachment devices, etc. Fall arrest devices external check only Harnesses, lanyard assemblies and associated personal equipment (including Type 1, 2 & 3 fall arrest devices) Permanently installed anchor points Fall-arrest devices full service including dismantling Horizontal lifelines and rails, including integral components and permanently installed mobile attachment devices Inspection Intervals Inspection by Operator before and after each use 3 months by competent person 6 months (or as specified by the manufacturer or supplier) 12 months (or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer or supplier) When a free fall has occurred on that fall arrest system (inc. anchor point) All inspections must meet manufacturer specification Each harness shall be identified via its equipment serial number and recorded on the equipment register. All equipment should have an inspection tag fitted showing date for next inspection or another system equal or better. 11 STORAGE AND CLEANING Equipment should be stored in a cool, dry place and not in direct sunlight. The equipment should not be subjected to unnecessary strain or pressure, and must be kept free from contact with sharp implements, corrosives and other possible causes of damage. Depending on the equipment condition, it should be cleaned regularly and should not exceed 6 months between cleaning. Each person will be responsible for regular cleaning of their PPE. Refer to Manufacturer s instructions for the correct way to clean and maintain equipment. 12 TRAINING AND COMPETENCY Refer to CS-PTW-SOP-02 Training and Authorisation in the PTW System All personnel shall receive general training in the requirements of this procedure including working at heights requirements (e.g. when controls are needed) and general safe use of ladders (including inspection for faults). Personnel who are required to use a travel restraint system or fall arrest system shall receive specific training in the set-up, use, inspections process, and limitations of the systems. Heights Safety Supervisor s shall undertake relevant training (external RTO) to achieve competency as outlined in AS Industrial Fall Arrest Systems and Devices. Page 20

21 13 S WORKING AT HEIGHTS CONTROL CHECKLIST Refer to Appendix 1 Graphic of S1972 Working at Heights Control Checklist The Working at Heights Control checklist is to be completed for PTW jobs to support/complement the JSEA. The Control Checklist assists with compliance of CS Energy s CS-PTW-HAZ-02 Working at Height procedure. 14 PTW AUDITING AND REVIEW PROCESS Compliance with the CS Energy s CS-PTW-HAZ-02 Working at Height procedure will be reviewed in conjunction with the audit and review requirements of the PTW system as outlined in the Audit and Review Process for the PTW System procedure 15 PROCEDURE REVIEW The CS Energy CS-PTW-HAZ-02 Working at Height procedure will be reviewed on an as needs basis (e.g. following legislative change, new information, relevant incident, etc.) 16 DEFINITIONS Term Anchorage Point Competent Person Elevating Work Platforms Ladder Competent Person Height Safety Supervisor (or competent person) Light Work Definition A device or thing by which a lanyard, static line or other line may be attached to a building or other structure, and includes the part of the building or structure to which the device or thing is attached. A person who has through a combination of training, education and experience, acquired knowledge and skills enabling that person to perform correctly a specified task. Powered mobile plant designed to lift personnel to a work location by means of a telescoping device, scissor action or articulated device. Includes portable single, extension and step type ladder The person proposing the installation or removal of the modification (may be implementer) Height Safety Supervisor is a nominated person/s for site that is trained and/or assessed as competent under AS Industrial Fall Arrest Systems and Devices to assess and approve anchor points, loading and fall arrest systems. Work that is light having regard to the following (a) the amount of physical exertion involved; (b) the physical capacity of the person doing the work; (c) the range of movement involved; (d) the weight or bulk of materials or equipment involved. Examples include but are not limited to: Painting installing a roof gutter, air-conditioning duct, metal fascia or lighting performing inspections or tests installing an electrical connection Page 21

22 Term Definition Non-Light Work safe work method statements (SWMS) Shall Travel Restraint System Fall Arrest System Working a heights Refer to section REFERENCES Work that is not light work. Examples include but are not limited to: a) fixing plaster board sheeting to an internal stairwell void b) fixing cladding to a structure c) using a medium or heavy duty angle grinder or circular saw Safe Work Method Statements are required for all high risk construction activities. For the purposes of this procedure this would include all working at height activities above 2 Metres (S291 WHSR). Indicates that compliance with the requirement is mandatory. A travel restraint system is designed to prevent a person from entering into a position where they could fall. It will typically involve an anchor (this may be a fixed point or a static line), lanyard to attach the person to the anchor and a harness to securely attach the person to the lanyard. Fall arrest systems should only be used in situations when it is not reasonably practicable to use either temporary work platforms or guardrails. A fall arrest system is designed to catch a person once they have fallen from a height. It consists of an anchor, lanyard, personal energy absorber or restraint device and harness. Reference No Reference Title Author Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 "B/D/11/19582" Procedure - CS-PTW-01 - Permit to Work (PTW) Manual CS Energy "B/D/12/2876" Form - S Working at Height Control Checklist CS Energy "B/D/12/2873" Form - S Unprotected Edge Control Checklist CS Energy Queensland Health and Safety Regulations 1997 Qld Govt AS 1576 Scaffolding AS 1716 Respiratory Protective Devices AS 1891 Industrial Fall Arrest Systems and Devices Suite AS 1892 Portable Ladders AS 4576 Guidelines for Scaffolding AS 4389 Safety Mesh AS Industrial Rope Access System AS 1657 Fixed Platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders Design, construction and installation AS Cranes Safe use Elevating Work Platforms Page 22

23 18 APPENDIX 18.1 Appendix 1 Graphic of S1972 Working at Heights Control Checklist Click HERE to access document in TRIM ("B/D/12/2876") Page 23

24 18.2 Appendix 2 Work at Heights Cheat Sheet Below is a guide to easily understand the CS Energy requirements for working at different height. Please ensure appropriate risk assessment is completed for the work you are conducting. Guide Residual Risk Requirements <2m Low 2 by 2 TRA <2m >Low JSEA >2m JSEA S1972 Work at Heights Checklist S1972 Work at Heights Checklist Above requirements exist for performing work where exposed to a fall hazard If harness is required the S1972 Work at Height Control Checklist is required Working off a ladder is not Work at Heights if 3 points of contact are maintained and the risk is low. (refer to section 4 of CS-OHS-52 Ladders) Page 24

25 18.3 Appendix 3 - Calculating your Potential Fall Distance Page 25