Toolbox talk, Hazards, about 8 minutes
Working at heights
Date
Site or job
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Why this one
A fall from height can end a career or a life, and it often starts with a short job that didn't get a plan. Gear only works when it's checked, worn right and tied to something that holds.
Say this
- 1.Plan it first. Know where the edge is, what you'll tie to, and how you'll get down.
- 2.Use the protection that fits the job. Rails and covers first, then personal gear per your procedure.
- 3.Inspect the harness, lanyard and connectors before every use. Pull anything damaged and tag it.
- 4.Fit the harness snug. Leg straps, chest strap and the back attachment sit where the maker says.
- 5.Tie off to an anchor rated for the load. If you don't know it's rated, ask the competent person.
- 6.Know the rescue plan. Hanging in a harness is an emergency, and someone needs to know how to respond.
- 7.Keep tools and materials from falling. Tether tools, and barricade the area below.
Ask the crew
- – What's the one place on this job where a fall is most likely, and what's protecting us there?
- – Who here knows the rescue plan if someone is hanging in a harness?
- – Have you ever been asked to skip tie-off to finish faster? What did you do?
Watch for today
- Open edges, openings and floor holes without rails or covers.
- Harnesses or lanyards that are frayed, cut, chemical-stained or past their inspection date.
- People working under anyone who is working above, with no barricade.
Close with: Plan it, check it, tie off, then go.
Notes and questions raised
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A starting point. Adapt it to your job, your procedures and the rules that apply to you. portalbaseai.com/toolbox-talks