Essential guide: Our Critical Risk expectations
The word MUST means it is a mandatory requirement. Where you see the words YOUR CALL it means you are strongly advised to do this, but you can use your judgement.
Barriers and edge protection
Edge protection MUST be engineered and capable of withstanding the loads that may be applied.
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Barriers/edge protection MUST include a top guardrail or component between 900mm and 1100mm above the working surface.
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Edge protection MUST be installed per the manufacturer’s guidelines and verified by competent persons.
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Covering opening, holes, and penetrations
Any openings, holes or penetrations that are a risk to those working around them MUST be covered to prevent any accidental falls.
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Covering materials MUST:
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be made from material strong enough to prevent people, objects, and plant falling through. (i.e., double 19mm ply for people and objects, steel plates for plant)
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be securely fixed
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include signage indicating its purpose (e.g., DANGER: PENETRATION BELOW).
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Elevated Work Platforms (EWP)
EWPs MUST:
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not be used as a means of entering/exiting a work area.
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only be used on a solid level surface, unless it is designed for use on rough terrain.
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EWP workers MUST not work alone.
Support Personnel who are familiar with the EWP’s emergency descent controls MUST be present, maintain positive communication, and remain in the operator’s line of sight.
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Fall restraint and fall arrest systems
Fall restraint or arrest systems MUST be designed, selected, used, and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.
They MUST be capable of withholding the force applied to it (including anchor points)
They MUST be verified by a qualified person and installed as per design prior to initial use. They MUST have components regularly inspected and serviced and verified by a qualified person.
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Access and egress
A safe means of access and egress to/ from elevated work areas MUST be provided. Access MUST be planned for in the event of an emergency
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Unauthorised access MUST be prevented (e.g., use of barriers, locking systems etc.).
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Risk of falling objects
The risk of falling objects MUST be controlled in one or more of the following ways:
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tools, equipment, and objects MUST be secured by lanyards
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barriers, screens or catch nets to prevent objects from dropping into work areas below
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exclusion zones established below the work area.
Find out more at dropsonline.org
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