Safety systems for working at heights
[edit] Introduction
While everyone understands the dangers of working at height, not everybody is familiar with the different types of solutions that are available. This brief overview provides a simple synopsis of each type.
[edit] Fall prevention
There are two general types of protection: collective and personal.
Collective systems can be temporary (scaffolding, cranes, working platforms, safety netting, safety mats and so on), or permanent (guardrails, walls, parapets, glass barriers, trolleys and so on) and protect numerous people. Permanent collective restraints may be installed around the perimeter a structure to block access to hazardous areas. They are passive and do not require additional action or equipment.
For more information see: Collective restraint systems.
Personal safety lifelines are customised for a single worker and are active. This means workers need to take action by wearing the equipment in order to be safe. These personal lifelines include fall arrest systems (to minimise injury during a fall) and fall restraint systems (to prevent a fall from happening in the first place) and can be either temporary or permanent.
For more information see: Fall arrest systems and Fall prevention systems.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Approved Document K.
- BS 7883.
- BS 7883 guide released.
- Collective restraint systems.
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations.
- Fall arrest systems.
- Fall prevention systems.
- FASET.
- Injuries on construction sites.
- Personal fall protection system.
- Roped access for conservation projects.
- Safety in high places.
- Site safety.
- Work at height checklist for managers.
- Work at height regulations.
- Work at height.
- Working at height - our duty to prevent harm and protect each other.
- Working at height training.
Featured articles and news
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
New project and cultural district described in detail.
The nature of EPCs, crticism and inaccuracies.
History, issues and redesign.
From waste recycling to energy performance the hierchy.
An introduction to WERCS and WEEE responsibilities
Dealing 2 million tonnes of waste equipment a year.
Global BACS Market: analytics and optimisation
A BSRIA glance at building automation and control systems.
What it is and how to use it.
Types of insulating plaster by binder and insulant.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.