The type of fall prevention which is most suitable will depend on the nature of the work being done, the type of workplace and the fall hazard.

Three levels of hazard management are prescribed in the Health and Safety in Employment Act:

• Elimination of the hazard - for example, do as much work on the ground as possible.
• Isolation (separate the hazard from the worker) - For example, install guardrails.
• Minimisation - for example, use safety nets, safety harnesses.

The following are just a few of the practical fall prevention measures that could be considered.

Ladders

• Use a ladder at a safe angle, ‘four up, one out’.
• Allow at least a 1 metre extension above the step-off point
• Set the ladder up on a firm, even surface
• Secure the top and bottom of the ladder against sliding
• Ensure the ladder is rated ‘industrial’

Handrails, guardrails and toeboards

Handrails are to assist balance, guardrails are to prevent falls.

• Make sure the top rail for both types of rail is between 0.9 and 1.1 metres above the floor or in front of the stair nosing.
• Ensure a midrail has been fitted for the guardrails.
• Fit a toeboard of sufficient height and strength where there is a danger of tools or materials dropping over the edge.
• Ensure guardrails and edge protection meet the respective standards AS/NZS 1657 and AS/NZS 4994.1,and are rated.

Fall arrest devices

Use of, harnesses, fall arrest devices, rigging of static lines, anchorage lines and restraints is a specialised area, and should be relied on only as a last resort. Such systems are only to be used where workers are fully trained and where there are emergency procedures in place to enable a rescue within a few minutes. Where a worker’s fall has been arrested, faintness and blood circulation problems can occur, which can lead to  suspense trauma  in under 10 minutes).

Elevated work platforms,  i.e. scissor lifts, knuckle booms, genie lifts, cherry pickers

• The machine must be the correct type and fit for the intended work.
• Employees must be trained to set up and operate the machine.
• The platform must not be overloaded.
• Climbing out of a platform at any height is prohibited.
• The EWP should not be used outside the safe operation guidelines.

Scaffolding 

• The scaffolding must be suitable, safe to use, and erected on a firm foundation.
• Guardrails must be in position and at the correct height.
• There must be sufficient planks to form the work platform, and they must be secured in position.
• A certified scaffolder must be in direct charge of erection, modification or dismantling of any scaffold more than 5 metres high.

For further information, see the publication Guidelines for the Prevention of Falls.