Working at heights is a common activity across various industries in New Zealand, from construction and agriculture to maintenance and cleaning. While it's often a necessary part of the job, it also presents significant risks. Falls from height are a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities, making it crucial to understand and adhere to the best safety practices.  

This article delves into the essential do’s and don’ts of working at heights in New Zealand to ensure your safety and compliance with regulations.

Why is Working at Heights Risky? 

Working at heights presents a significant risk, and it's important to understand why. A common misconception is that only great heights are dangerous. In reality, falls from seemingly low levels of less than 3 meters account for a disturbingly large proportion (over 50%) of falls from height incidents. The potential consequences are severe, ranging from fractures and debilitating head trauma to, tragically, fatalities. The severity of an injury is determined by a complex combination of factors, including the fall distance, the type of surface impacted, and the individual's overall health and physical condition.  

This isn't just theoretical; the statistics provide a stark reminder of the danger. Working at heights remains a major safety challenge in New Zealand, contributing to a significant number of Workplace Health and Safety injuries and deaths annually. WorkSafe New Zealand's data paints a concerning picture: in the construction sector alone, between 2022 and 2023, there were 645 reported injuries and 12 fatalities directly caused by falls from height. These figures highlight the critical and ongoing need for constant vigilance and strict adherence to safety protocols in all work environments where there's a risk of falling.

Legal Requirements for Working at Heights in New Zealand 

In New Zealand, working at heights is regulated by the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and the WorkSafe New Zealand guidelines. These regulations set out the legal requirements for employers and workers regarding working at heights. Familiarity with these regulations is crucial to ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.

The Do’s of Working at Heights 

✓ Prioritise Planning and Conducting Risk Assessment 

Effective planning is the foundation of safe work at heights. Before any work begins, conducting a thorough risk assessment is a must to identify all potential hazards. This includes considering the specific tasks involved, the work environment, weather conditions, and the workers' competency. The risk assessment should inform the development of a detailed safe work method statement (SWMS) outlining the steps to minimise risks. This SWMS should be communicated clearly to all workers involved. 

✓ Use the Right Equipment for the Job 

Selecting and using the appropriate equipment is crucial for safely working at heights. This might include ladders, scaffolds, harnesses, fall arrest systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety helmets and safety footwear. All equipment must be certified, regularly inspected, and maintained in good working condition. Workers must be trained for the proper use of all equipment before they are allowed to use it. 

✓ Implement Fall Protection Systems 

Fall protection systems are essential for preventing falls from heights. These systems can include guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). Guardrails provide a passive form of fall protection, while PFAS, including harnesses and lanyards, are used to arrest a fall if one occurs. Choosing the right fall protection system depends on the specific work environment and the tasks being performed. 

✓ Provide Comprehensive Training 

All workers working at heights must receive thorough training on safe work practices, hazard identification, equipment use, and emergency procedures. Qualified instructors should provide training and periodically update to ensure workers maintain competency. This training should cover the legal requirements for working at heights in New Zealand. 

✓ Ensure Proper Supervision 

Effective supervision is essential to ensure safe work practices are being followed. Supervisors should be trained in hazard identification and risk management and be responsible for monitoring worker’s activities to ensure they are following the SWMS and using equipment correctly. 

✓ Maintain a Safe Work Environment 

The work environment should be kept clean and free from obstructions. Adequate lighting should be provided, and measures should be taken to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Weather conditions should be monitored, and work at heights should be postponed if conditions are unsafe. 

✓ Conduct Regular Inspections 

Regular inspections of equipment and work areas are essential for identifying potential hazards and ensuring safety measures are in place. Inspections should be documented, and any defects should be rectified immediately.

The Don’ts of Working at Heights 

✗ Don't Overload Ladders or Scaffolds 

Overloading ladders or scaffolds is a common cause of accidents. Always check the weight rating of equipment and ensure that it is not exceeded by distributing the load evenly and avoiding placing excessive weight on one side. 

✗Don't Use Damaged or Defective Equipment 

Damaged or defective equipment should never be used. All equipment should be inspected before each use, and any defects should be reported immediately. Damaged equipment should be taken out of service and replaced or repaired by a qualified person. 

✗ Don't Work at Heights in Unfavourable Weather Conditions 

Working at heights in high winds, heavy rain, or other adverse weather conditions can be extremely dangerous. Work should be postponed until conditions improve. 

✗ Don't Take Shortcuts or Skip Safety Procedures 

Taking shortcuts or skipping safety procedures is never worth the risk. Always follow the SWMS and use the appropriate equipment, even if it seems inconvenient. 

✗ Don't Work at Heights if You Are Not Trained or Authorised 

Working at heights requires specialised training and authorisation. Never attempt to work at heights if you have not received the necessary training and authorisation. 

✗ Don't Work at Heights Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol 

Drugs and alcohol can impair judgment and coordination, making it extremely dangerous to work at heights. Never work at heights under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

✗ Don't Ignore Warning Signs or Hazards 

Always pay attention to warning signs and hazards. If you see something that looks unsafe, report it immediately. 

✗ Don’t Work at Height without Edge Protection where Possible 

Edge protection such as guardrails should always be the first consideration when working at height. It provides a passive form of protection and minimises the risk of falls. 

✗ Don't Rely Solely on Personal Fall Arrest Systems 

While PFAS are crucial, they are a last line of defence. Whenever possible, prioritise methods that prevent falls altogether, such as guardrails or eliminating the need to work at height. 

✗ Don't Allow Unauthorised Access to Work at Height Areas 

Restrict access to areas where work at height is being carried out to prevent unauthorised personnel from entering and potentially being injured. 

Safety Measures at a Glance 

Key Takeaway 

Working at heights is an inherently risky activity, but by following the do's and don'ts, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Remember: safety is everyone's responsibility. By working together and adhering to the best practices, we can make working at heights in New Zealand safer for everyone.

Need Height Safety Training? Contact ACT Safety Today! 

Take your height safety to the next level with ACT Safety. We offer comprehensive Working at heights training courses to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely at heights. Don't wait until it's too late – invest in your safety today! Contact us now and book your training!