Working at Heights PROCEDURE

Transcription

1 Working at Heights PROCEDURE Contents 1.0 Purpose 2.0 Objective 3.0 Scope and limitation 4.0 References and sources of information 5.0 Responsibilities 5.1 University Managers 5.2 University Staff Overseeing Contractors 5.3 University Health and Safety Consultant 5.4 Workers 6.0 What is the risk? 7.0 Accessing and working on roofs 7.1 Risk assessment 7.2 Roof register 7.3 Compliance Inspection 7.4 Roof access permit 7.5 Roof access procedure 7.6 Safe work method statements 7.7 Training 7.8 Emergency rescue fall plan 7.9 Signage 8.0 Portable ladders 8.1 Selecting and positioning ladders 8.2 Ladder maintenance 9.0 Fixed ladders 10.0 Elevating work platforms 10.1 Types of elevating work platforms 10.2 Assessing risk before using an elevating work platform 10.3 Licencing requirements 10.4 Working near overhead power lines 10.5 Pre-start inspections 10.6 Safe work method statements 10.7 Emergency procedures 10.8 Shutting down the elevating work platform and securing the site 11.0 Checklists and templates 11.1 C1 Roof Risk Assessment checklist 11.2 C2 Emergency Rescue Fall Plan checklist 11.3 C3 Portable Ladders Inspection checklist 11.4 C4 EWP Site Risk Assessment checklist 11.5 T1 Roof Register template 11.6 T2 Roof Access Permit template 11.7 T3 Roof Access Permit register Page 1 of 16

2 1.0 Purpose Macquarie University (MQ) is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for staff, students, contractors and visitors. To meet this commitment it must ensure that work conducted from a height is either eliminated or if this is not possible, then performed safely with adequate controls to avoid injuries and incidents. This procedure defines how the University will fulfil its working at heights obligation under the WHS Act 2011 and WHS Regulation Objective This procedure will provide guidance to MQ management and staff on how to undertake work from heights safely, and how systems to manage working from heights risks are to be implemented and maintained. The application of this procedure will help demonstrate that a systematic approach has been applied to identifying working at heights risk and that appropriate controls have been implemented to manage those risks. Contractors engaged by the University to perform work at heights are also required to adhere to this procedure and provide evidence of safe systems of work in relation to working at heights. The objectives of this procedure are to, Define what working at heights is Outline how working at heights hazards are to be identified Detail how working at heights risk is to be eliminated or controlled 3.0 Scope and limitation This procedure only applies to those buildings, properties and facilities that currently are either owned or maintained by the University. It does not apply to buildings, properties and facilities situated on University grounds but controlled by a third party entity. (?? check this statement with M.Carabetta) It does not include buildings or structures that are being constructed. For the purpose of this procedure working on roofs also includes working or accessing ceiling space. 4.0 References and other sources of information WHS Act 2011 WHS Regulations 2011 Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice Building Code of Australia AS Cranes (including Hoists and Winches) Building Maintenance Units AS/NZS1576 Scaffolding series AS/NZS 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders Design, construction and installation AS/NZS Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices Harnesses and ancillary equipment AS/NZS Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices Horizontal lifeline and rail systems AS/NZS Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices Fall arrest devices AS/NZS Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices Selection, use and maintenance AS/NZS 1892 Portable ladders series AS/NZS Fibre ropes man-made fibre rope for static life rescue lines AS/NZS 4389 Safety mesh AS/NZS 4488 Industrial rope access systems series AS/NZS Industrial rope access systems Selection, use and maintenance AS/NZS 4576 Guidelines for scaffolding AS Cranes-Safe Use-Mast climbing work platforms AS/NZS 4994 Temporary edge protection Workplace Health and Safety Queensland: Safe operation of an elevating work platform Worksafe Victoria: Prevention of Falls Working on Roofs Page 2 of 16

3 5.0 Responsibilities 5.1 University Managers Managers of faculties, departments and administrative units are responsible for directing the implementation of the Working at Heights procedure in relation to workers (including staff and contractors) engaged in areas under their influence or control. 5.2 University Staff Supervising or Overseeing Contractors University staff who supervise, oversee, co-ordinate or project manage work that may involve working at heights are required to implement the relevant sections of this procedure. Where required, this includes; Elements Issuing the safe work method statement for working at heights to MQ workers Ensuring contractors have provided adequate safe work method statements for working at heights Issuing a roof access permit Ensure workers have undertaken appropriate training Ensure appropriate fall prevention and / or fall restraint equipment is in place Ensure appropriate personal protection equipment is provided and used Ensure a heights rescue plan is in place Implement the relevant sections of the contractor management system including random observations 5.3 University Health and Safety Consultant In consultation with other key stakeholders (Senior Project Manager, health and safety representative), Review the roof register on an annual basis and make recommendations to keep this register current Arrange for annual external certification of all height safety systems on campus. Arrange for recommendations from these certifications to be implemented. 5.4 Workers MQ staff and contractors engaged to perform work at heights must ensure that they, Have received adequate training and a copy of the relevant safe work method statement Advise their supervisor if they have a fear of heights Where a fall-arrest system is required to be used, do not work alone as they may need to be rescued in the event of a fall. Have a rescue plan (where required) and are competent in its use Follow all safety procedures and training in relation to working at heights Wear the appropriate PPE where required Page 3 of 16

4 6.0 What is the risk? Working at heights is required to undertake repair, maintenance, fault-finding and cleaning activities. Working at heights can create hazards for both those working at the height and others who may be below in the vicinity of where that work is being undertaken. Working from heights presents the risk of a person falling. A fall risk means a person falling from one level to another that is reasonably likely to cause injury. There is also risk of the person working from a height causing an item (tool, equipment, material) to fall; injuring a person below or causing property damage. Risk can arise when working, in or on plant or structures that are at an elevated level in or on plant that is being 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 The University is required to take action to eliminate these risks so far as is reasonably practicable. If this is not possible then the risk must be minimised and controlled by other means. Work that would typically involve working at heights is: 1. Accessing and working on roofs, ceiling spaces and mezzanine levels 2. Using portable and fixed ladders to gain access to an elevated level 3. Performing work from mobile and fixed elevated work platforms 4. Working on plant and structures 7.0 Accessing and Working on Roofs 7.1 Risk Assessment A risk assessment of every roof on buildings controlled by the University will be conducted to identify, The type of work that may be undertaken eg: repairs, maintenance, fault finding and cleaning Whether the need to undertake this work from the roof can be eliminated What the particular hazards are in relation to each roof What controls are currently in place to prevent or restrain a fall The appropriateness of those controls Measures required to further minimise or control the risk where required The assessment will be conducted by University maintenance staff. The Working on Roofs risk assessment template will be used to record information gathered from the physical inspection. This information will then be used to assess the level of risk for each roof and to determine further control measures. The template will include a range of parameters to be considered including: height, pitch, material, openings, edges, structural integrity, access, and fall prevention and fall restraint provisions. Photographs should be included. Completed assessments will be collated by the Property WHS Consultant for review and record keeping. Recommendations will be made to MQ Property management including a schedule of work based on priority of risk. Use C1 Roof Risk Assessment checklist Page 4 of 16

5 7.2 Roof Register Each roof will be listed on the roof register. The purpose of the register is to record; Current safety controls identified during the risk assessment Once approved by management, improvement recommendations identified during the risk assessment Dates and results of external compliance inspections. The roof register will be made available to anyone who may require it to manage safety. This includes: MQ staff undertaking work on a roof, contractors engaged to perform work on a roof, security, the Property Trades and Grounds HS representative. Use T1 Roof Register spread-sheet The roof register should be reviewed annually. The roof register will contain these details: Requirement Description Building State the name and/or number/code of the building Section State the section or level of roof referred to, noting that some roofs have more than one section or level Access State how the roof can be accessed: eg, portable ladder/fixed ladder, security access required Details List the materials, height, pitch, parapet height etc relevant to each roof Plant and equipment List what plant and equipment is located on each roof: eg, air-conditioning units, communications equipment Hazards List hazards particular to each roof: eg. unrestrained openings/edges, brittle material, electrical, slip hazards Existing controls List existing controls: eg, enclosed fixed ladders, walk platforms, handrails, static lines, harness anchor points Risk Transfer the risk score obtained from the risk assessment Inspection Date Date of the initial risk assessment Who Names of those who conducted the initial risk assessment Priority Priority 1 - actions required within 3 months Priority 2 - actions required within 9 months Priority 3 - actions required within 18 months Review Date to review and inspect the roof External External compliance and certificate received (Yes or No) Inspection A column for the date the external inspection was conducted and a column for the date of the next inspection. 7.3 Compliance Inspection An external qualified consultant will be engaged to undertake annual compliance inspections of all fall-arrest systems such as anchor points, static lines and catch platforms, that are in place on each roof. The roof register will identify the building and type of fall-arrest provision on the roof. A written report will be provided by the consultant to the University The report will be reviewed by Property management Recommendations will be taken into consideration after consultation with other stakeholders including the Property health and safety representative, building project managers and the HS consultant. The Property Health and Safety Consultant will update the roof register to reflect that the audit has been conducted. The next review date will be updated on the register. At the time of this procedure being developed, the University engages Australian Anchor Access Pty Ltd and Phoenix Lifting to undertake these compliance inspections. Page 5 of 16

6 7.4 Roof Access Permit Where reasonably practicable, access to a roof or ceiling space should be restricted by a locked security door. The roof risk assessment will identify where this is practicable. Where access to a roof or ceiling space is required, authorised people are to apply for a roof access permit. The intention of the permit is to ensure that, Risks are considered and appropriate controls are in place before access is obtained Only authorised users are granted access to a roof A visible permit is displayed by authorised people whilst accessing a roof The recipient of the permit may gain access keys to the roof or ceiling space given that all other requirements (including security requirements) have been met. An MQ Property building representative will issue the permit to the worker/s once they are satisfied the following conditions have been met. MQ staff Contractors Completed the MQ induction Completed the MQ online contractor induction Have undertaken appropriate working at heights training Are on the WHS pre-qualified register Have safe work method statements for working at heights Have undertaken appropriate working at heights training Have access to and consult the roof register prior to work Have provided safe work method statements for working at heights Have a rescue plan in place where required Have access to and consulted the roof register prior to work Are NOT working alone Have a rescue plan in place where required Will report any hazards or concerns they may observe Are NOT working alone Will report any hazards or concerns they may observe Use T2 Roof Access Permit template 7.5 Roof Access Procedure Request for permit 1. A person requiring roof access must obtain a roof access permit from an authorised University officer 2. The person requiring roof access must explain why and detail the nature and longevity of the work Review the roof register 3. The authorised officer shall review the roof register with the person requiring access 4. Hazards relevant to that roof will be discussed 5. Risk control measures and general precautions to be undertaken during the access will be agreed Review SWMS 6. The authorised officer will review the request for permit person s safe work method statement for working on roofs 7. Where fall-arrest provisions are required the person must also submit a rescue plan Agree on risk controls, issue permit 8. Once the authorised officer deems the controls acceptable, they will issue the permit 9. It is on this permit that the person may obtain the relevant keys for access to doors (where applicable) 10. Security: only issue keys on presentation of a current roof access permit signed by an authorised University officer 11. Person receiving the permit responsible for supervising the work and implementing the controls 12. The permit must be retained at the work/access area for the duration of the permit Page 6 of 16

7 13. The permit must be made available upon request by a University officer or health and safety representative Permit returned 14. Access keys (where applicable) must be returned to whomever issued them (usually security) 15. Upon completion of the work the person who obtained the permit must return it to the authorising officer 16. A register of roof access permits issued will be maintained by Property This register should be updated by the authorised University officer who issued the permit 7.6 Safe work method statements The University will develop its own safe work method statements for working on roofs in consultation with the appropriate health and safety representative and applicable workgroups. The SWMS will have a competency assessment. Workers must be provided a copy of the SWMS and demonstrate competence by achieving a 100% result in questions relating to working at heights, before they are authorised to work on a roof. The University through the contractor management system and roof access permit process will ensure that contractors engaged to work on roofs do so in accordance with their own current SWMS. Safe work method statements must address these issues: Elements Training requirements and authorised users The requirement to consult the roof register and obtain a roof access permit Avoid working on roofs during adverse weather conditions Do not work alone on a roof. Ensure there is at least another person with you If fall-arrest equipment is required: ensure you are trained in how to use it and a rescue plan is in place Check that anchor points and/or static lines have been inspected and safe within the inspection period Provision for communication with others in an emergency (eg: security) Check for safe access to and from and egress in and around the roof Provide safe means to transport tools, equipment and materials to the roof Establish an exclusion zone beneath areas that may present a risk of an item falling Monitor the structural soundness of the roof before walking on it Keep roof areas tidy and free from slip/trip/fall hazards Minimise manual handling whilst on the roof Wear other PPE as required: appropriate slip resistant shoes, hat, sunglasses, sun-cream Page 7 of 16

8 7.7 Training Elements MQ staff Contractors Induction SWMS Toolbox talks Online WHS induction Macquarie Trades and Grounds WHS Induction MQ staff will be provided working at heights SWMS Working on roofs Using portable and fixed ladders Operating elevating work platforms Toolbox talks are a good way to refresh and remind people of safety topics. Toolbox talks should address working at heights periodically and as issues arise. Online contractor induction Contractors are required to submit their own working at heights SWMS These SWMS will be reviewed by Property and as a minimum must address the items listed in the section above (safe work method statements) Contractors are required through the WHS prequalification questionnaire to demonstrate how they consult with workers External External working at heights training including the proper use and application of safety harnesses will be provided for any MQ staff required to work at a height where the use of a safety harness is required. Contractors required to work at heights must also demonstrate that they have undertaken suitable working at heights training. Reference to this training in a SWMS may be adequate to demonstrate this. Records Inductions will be kept via the ELMO online register Excel training register will reflect: induction, safe work methods statements and any external working at heights training Toolbox talks record of topics and attendance will be kept on file under consultation Inductions will be kept via the ELMO online register Contractors will demonstrate their training record keeping processes through the WHS pre-qualification questionnaire. 7.8 Emergency Rescue Fall Plan A rescue plan is required for each location where a worker is required to work at a height (or depth) where a fall arrest system is required. Workers should not be required to work at a height unless they are able to self-rescue or be rescued in the event of a fall. Rescue plans should also be exercised. Emergency Services must not be relied upon to carry out a rescue unless a specific arrangement has been made with them. They are unable to guarantee to arrive on time, they may have trouble accessing the site and they may not have the necessary equipment. The rescue of a worker suspended in a full body harness must occur promptly to prevent suspension trauma. While not all fall victims die in harness suspension, the risk of death increases if the prolonged suspension trauma victim does not either self-rescue or become rescued within 15 minutes after a fall. Whilst suspended in a harness the leg straps that bear the weight of the suspended person will tighten. Blood will be pulled down into the legs creating a pooling effect that reduces the amount of blood flow around the body. Breathing increases and the heart beat may quicken to maintain the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain and organs. If this fails the heart rate may slow and the suspended person may faint. This reduced heart rate can lower the flow and quality of blood to the brain and other vital organs which can lead to kidney failure, brain damage and even death. Signs of suspension trauma include: faintness, nausea, breathlessness, dizziness, sweating, unusually slow heart rate, unusually low blood pressure, paleness, hot flushes, loss of visions, increased heart rate. Fall victims can slow the onset of suspension trauma by keeping the muscles active to maintain blood circulation by, Pushing down vigorously with their legs and mobilising other limbs Page 8 of 16

9 Frequently pump the legs against a firm surface Positioning the body in a horizontal or slight leg-high position Standing up or resting the feet against something nearby (eg: a ledge, window sill on the side of a building) The ability of the victim to prevent the onset of suspension trauma may be effected by the design of the harness and/or any injuries sustained in the fall. Following the rescue of a suspended person, they should be placed in a knees bent W sitting position for at least minutes. This will help to slowly release any pooled / toxic blood back towards the heart and allow the body the chance to process and remove any toxins from the blood. If the casualty were to be laid down after a rescue the pooled / toxic blood would rush back into the heart and other organs which could cause heart attack or organ failure. The exception to placing a person in the W position would be in circumstances where there is a suspected spinal injury. Generally a person who has fallen approximately 4 metres could be assumed to have suffered a spinal injury. Anyone who has been suspended in an arrested fall should be treated as a medical emergency and immediate medical treatment arranged. Considerations for rescue planning Yes/No The safety of the rescue team: do not place anyone else s life in danger Is the person conscious or unconscious? What is the body-holding device? Is the person suspended or is their body being supported by something in addition to the harness (ie. suspension trauma straps) Ability to communicate with external emergency services & MQ security without having to leave the site Communication methods: note, mobile phones & other static generating devices should not be used within 5 metres of any category 1 or category 2 (atmospheric contaminants) confined space Is the person injured but still capable of self-rescue? Is the person uninjured and capable of self-rescue? Is the person injured and requiring treatment at height by a member of the rescue team or emergency services? Can the person be winched up/down eg: by a davit/tripod, winch? The use of an elevating work platform if available. Rescuer must also be harnessed to the EWP Instructions to be given to emergency services Availability of rescue equipment: ladders, other harnesses, EWP s, tripods, winches, stretcher, controlled descent devices etc. What obstructions are in the way of reaching the suspended person Can the rescue be completed within 15 minutes to minimise the risk of further injury/death due to suspension trauma? Note: emergency services may not be the primary means of rescue due to geographical constraints and time restrictions. Components Details of the site / location How the person is to be rescued Responsibilities who will do what Equipment required Communication methods: mobile phone, 2-way radio + contact details of emergency services, security etc. Use C2 Rescue Fall Plan checklist Page 9 of 16

10 7.9 Signage Where a door, landing or other structural element provides access to a roof or ceiling space, adequate signage must be displayed to prohibit unauthorised entry. Where authorised people may access a roof space or ceiling that requires them to be harnessed to a fixed anchor point, that access point (ie: door) must display, A warning sign instructing the authorised person to use an appropriate safety harness A compliance plate or similar stating when the anchor points where last inspected by a qualified person Examples of such displays; 8.0 Portable Ladders Extension or single ladders (including step ladders) should generally only be used as a means of access to or egress from a work area. They should only be considered as a working platform for light work of short duration, so long as this work can be carried out safely on the chosen ladder. 8.1 Selecting and Positioning Ladders Ladders must be suitable for the task: whether to access/egress, or for light work of short duration. Consider the physical surrounds (suitability of the ground to balance the ladder, exposure/proximity to power lines), the type of task, the duration of the task and the prevailing weather conditions Have a load rating of at least 120kg, be manufactured for industrial use and having warning stickers All portable ladders should be inspected before use: check for cracks, worn or loose rungs, bent or damaged components, stickers or paint that may hide a defect All portable ladders should have slip resistant base feet, rungs and steps Portable ladders must be set up to prevent slipping, tipping or falling. The following principles should be implemented to prevent such occurrences. Single and extension ladders Where these ladders are used to access or egress, check that Page 10 of 16

11 There is a firm, stable platform to step onto from the ladder The ladder extends at least one metre above the stepping-off point on the platform Fall protection (fall prevention or fall arrest) provisions are in place where people step off onto the platform Safely using these ladders involves Placing the ladder at a slope of 4:1 against a solid and stable supporting structure Ensuring the ladder is the correct height for the task and positioned correctly to avoid reaching or stretching Securing the ladder at the top, bottom or at both ends if necessary to prevent slipping or sliding Setting up the ladder on firm, stable and solid ground Securing all locking devices on the ladder Using three points of contact when ascending/descending: avoid carrying tools/materials use a tool belt (or similar) Facing the ladder when ascending/descending and/or working from it Only performing light work of short duration: three points of contact can be maintained, tools can be safely operated using one hand Wearing slip resistant shoes In these situations, ladders are not to be used without additional appropriate precautions In access areas or doorways if necessary, erect a barrier, lock the door shut, or have a second person keep watch On scaffolding or an elevating work platform to get extra height Next to power lines unless the worker is trained, authorised and using the appropriate ladder In very wet or windy conditions Next to traffic area, unless the area is suitably barricaded and sign-posted Step ladders Should be in the fully opened position with locking devices engaged when in use Should not be used near the edge of an open floor, penetration or beside any railing Do not stand higher than the second tread below the top plate of any stepladder (with the exception of a three-rung step ladder) When using ladders it is not safe to Use metal or metal reinforced ladders when working on live electrical installations Carry out work such as arc welding or oxy cutting Work over other people Allow anyone else to be on the ladder at the same time Over-reach the centre of the torso should be within the ladder stiles whilst you work Use any tool that requires two hands to operate (eg: concrete cutting saw, circular saw, grinder) Use any tool that requires a high degree of force or leverage that could cause the person to over-balance and fall Stand on a rung closer than 900mm to the top of a single or extension ladder 8.2 Ladder maintenance A register of all ladders used and kept by Property will be maintained. Ladders shall be inspected twice a year at even intervals as part of the Property safety inspection regime. This does not replace the need for ladder users to conduct a visual inspection of a ladder before using it. Identify faults including, Page 11 of 16

12 Fibreglass stiles cracked, chipped or severely faded with fibres exposed Timber stiles warped, splintered, cracked or bruised Metal stiles twisted, bent, kinked, crushed or with cracked welds or damaged feet Rungs, steps, treads or top plates missing, worn, damaged or loose Tie rods missing, broken or loose Ropes, braces or brackets missing, broken or worn Ladder components covered with paint or stickers that could hide faults or defects Missing, worn, loose, bent fasteners such as rivets, bolts, pins Worn or damaged feet and non-slip material Defects found as part of the inspection regime or pre-start check shall be tagged out of service and referred to the maintenance supervisor. In consultation with the health and safety representative a decision will be made whether to repair or replace the ladder and the necessary arrangements made. Use C3 Portable ladder inspection checklist 9.0 Fixed Ladders Fixed ladders are to be installed in accordance with AS1657 Fixed Platforms, Walkways, Stairways and Ladders Design, Construction and Installation. Property project managers and building services officers are responsible for ensuring any new installation of a fixed ladder is done in accordance with this standard. Some installation principles The angle of slope should not be less than 70 degrees or greater than 75 degrees to the horizontal In no case should the ladder overhang the person climbing the ladder If the angle of slope is more than 75 degrees a safe system of work to prevent falls should be provided: such as a permanent or temporary fall-arrest system (anchorage lines or rails), or a full body harness with double arm lanyard. Ladder cages on fixed ladders do not stop falls. Rather they funnel a fall and can in some cases cause more injuries and hinder a rescue. A specifically designed rescue procedure should be developed for use in ladder cage situations. Training in rescue procedures should occur before using the fixed ladder. 10. Elevating Work Platforms The use of an elevating work platform (EWP) may be a safer means of accessing or working at a height. Examples include: cutting high branches from a tree, changing a light globe from an outdoor light pole, undertaking trade maintenance work. However, the use of a EWP is potentially dangerous: it is a mobile machine that may operate in workplaces where people are about, and there is also the possibility of the machine toppling, overturning or malfunctioning Types of elevating work platforms Trailer mounted EWP Self-propelled EWP with scissor arms Self-propelled EWP with telescoping boom Self-propelled EWP with telescoping knuckle boom Vehicle-mounted EWP 10.2 Assessing risk before using an elevating work platform Before using a EWP a risk assessment must be conducted and a work plan developed to identify and control hazards. This will involve, Page 12 of 16

13 Pre-plan: Find out the job requirements The type of work to be done The location of the work: look at other activities in the area, access/egress issues, environment The height of the work Approvals required Time allocated to do the work Tools, equipment, materials required Procedures: Determine what procedures apply Safe work methods statements Safety equipment: barricades, PPE (safety harness, hard hat, high-visibility clothing, protective eye wear Personnel: use of spotters First-Aid, emergency preparedness, emergency procedures Training and licencing requirements Safe work methods statements Risk Assessment: Inspect the work area Look for: trenches, roads, unstable/uneven ground, overhead power lines, pedestrians) Determine what barricades/traffic controls will be required to create your exclusion zone Determine signage and spotter requirements Consider lighting Look for: trenches, roads, unstable/uneven ground, overhead power lines, pedestrians) Determine what barricades/traffic controls will be required to create your exclusion zone Use C4 EWP work site hazard identification and control checklist 10.3 Licencing requirements The WHS Regulation 2011 requires licencing to carry out high risk work. The following equipment may be used (but not limited to) for tasks involving working at heights. 1. Materials hoist 2. Personnel and materials hoist 3. Boom-type elevating work platform MQ staff and contractors who operate this type of equipment must hold a current licence in accordance with the requirements in the WHS Regulation This includes the operation of an elevating work platform (EWP) where the boom length is greater than 11 metres. Where a licence to carry out high risk work is not required (ie: for the use of scissor lifts or EWP s with a boom length less than 11 metres), then the University will require its workers to hold a current yellow ticket. A yellow ticket is formal training provided by an accredited external trainer. Once complete the learner will be issued a certificate of competency by the training provider. Page 13 of 16

14 10.4 Working near overhead power lines EWP s are frequently used near power lines because they are designed to provide work access at a height. Contact with these lines or with other objects touching these lines is a serious risk that can result in electrocution, electric shock, burns, fires and explosions. Work within 4 metres of a power-line should not be undertaken. Work within 4 metres of a power-line (including tree pruning, branch lopping where a part of the tree to be pruned or lopped is within 4 metres of the power-line) must be referred to the power authority who may have to arrange the work. When inspecting the site before work commences, special consideration must be given to the location of overhead power-lines and the proximity of the work to those power-lines. Exclusion zones and safe approach distances from power lines must be established. Conduct a risk assessment of the proposed work If necessary consult with the relevant electrical supply authority for assistance and direction Ensure a safety observer/spotter is used whenever a EWP is in operation Ensure an effective communication system is in place for the workers performing the work LOOK UP AND LIVE 10.5 Pre-start inspections Before operating a EWP, the authorised person must conduct a pre-start inspection to ensure any defects are found before the unit is used. The pre-start inspection must be done in accordance with the manufacturers specifications, and this should be found within the service log book that comes with the EWP. The log book will provide, Records of regular service checks A pre-start checklist Records of any faults or defects If a service is overdue inform the owner of the unit and do not use it. Check the safe working load (SWL) of the unit and ensure that this will not be exceeded. If following the pre-start inspection any defect is found, the unit must be tagged out of order and secured against operation Safe work method statement MQ employees authorised to use a EWP must be provided the safe work method statement and hold a valid yellow ticket before commencing work. They must also be adequately supervised and instructed relevant to their skill and experience. The safe work method statement will cover, Planning and conducting an elevation Moving the EWP Conducting work from an EWP: working above facilities, using solvents and chemicals, restraining tools Personal protective equipment: hard hat, safety harness, high-visibility clothing, eye protection Emergency procedures Shutting down and securing the EWP Contractors engaged and required to operate a EWP must provide the University with a current SWMS in relation to that work Emergency Procedures Page 14 of 16

15 Each EWP will have different controls and specifications. Before use, the operator must become familiar with these specifications. In the event of an emergency these principles should be followed. Entanglement with power lines Collapse of a person on the platform If you notice a person suspended on a EWP has fainted or passed out EWP starts to tilt If the EWP starts to tilt to one side EWP motor fails Lower the work platform by Use of emergency descent device If the platform cannot be safely lowered Call for help immediately: have the spotter call the supervisor and then contact the electricity authority and wait for further advice Try to make contact with the person: yell out, call their mobile phone (if applicable) If you get no response call for first-aid assistance (call MQ Security) Check for hazards in and around the EWP (eg: power lines, hazardous substances) If no hazards are found and the machine is safe, switch it to ground controls and lower the platform to the ground. If there is an electrical hazard do NOT touch the unit. Call the electrical authority. Stop work immediately and lower the platform to the ground if possible. Get off the unit and try to identify the cause: eg. unstable ground, outrigger failure, mechanical or hydraulic fault. If the problem cannot be rectified seek advice from a competent person before any attempt is made to elevate the platform again. Call out to the assistant person below at ground level to use the ground controls to lower Bleeding the valves of the hydraulic arms Use the emergency descent device (if one is fitted) Release the EDD safety release clip: press the securing pin Ensure there is no-one beneath the platform Attach the EDD to the D ring on the safety harness Disconnect the safety strap from the safety harness and climb to the outside of the basket Use one hand to hold the rope just below the EDD and the other hand to hold onto the basket Release your foothold from the basket and transfer your hand from the basket to the rope above the EDD Increase or decrease your speed by changing the angle at which the tail of the rope is fed into the EDD 10.8 Shutting down the EWP and securing the site Lowering the unit Stowing the unit Securing and stowing outriggers Post-operational safety checks Before lowering the platform ensure the area beneath is clear of people and obstructions If people are present (ie: the assistant) sound the horn and wait for them to re-locate Lower the boom slowly and carefully Once lowered, drive the unit to its designated parking or collection area Once parked, lower it fully and turn everything off, remove the keys Remove your harness: store in a safe place Take your tools and equipment Disembark from the unit using the stairs provided, maintain three points of contact Shut down the engine and isolate the fuel supply If required: place the unit on charge Retract the outrigger footplates Retract the outrigger beams Lock in the outriggers with the right pins (if applicable) Clean the steel plates Visually check the unit for damage or leaks Hydraulic arms: ensure they have not been damaged or bent Boom: for dents, cracks in its welds and joints Slew ring: for bending or other damage Basket: ensure it is in good working order and has not been damaged Outriggers/stabilisers: ensure they are in good working order and not damaged Safety devices: ensure they are intact and operational Page 15 of 16

16 Site security Secure the EWP against unauthorised use by either, Chaining the machine to a post (or similar sturdy structure) Removing the platform control panel (as is possible with some machines) Lock the machine in a safe place Fence off with temporary fencing that can be locked 11.0 Checklists and Templates All checklists and templates can be found at: C:\1. Property\4. Administration\3. Risk Control\2. SWP's\Working at Heights C1 Roof Risk Assessment checklist C2 Emergency Rescue Fall Plan checklist C3 Portable Ladders Inspection checklist C4 EWP Work Site Risk Assessment checklist T1 Roof Register template T2 Roof Access Permit template T3 Roof Access Permit register Page 16 of 16