There’s a lot that can go wrong when carrying out work at height, so everyone involved needs to know exactly what to do to avoid accidents and injury. Safety should always come first, and knowing how to respond to unexpected challenges can save lives and protect valuable equipment.
This is just a very quick guide that explores five of the most common problems encountered with work at height, and we’ll lay out some practical steps to manage each situation effectively.
Sudden Heavy Rain Or Snow
If you are working at height, then make checking the latest weather report a priority before you start. If rain or snow begins, stop work immediately and seek appropriate clothing to keep yourself warm and dry.
Also check the surface you’re working on for hazards before resuming your work. Rain can make substances like oil dangerously slippery, so ensure there are no contaminants present. Inspect the platform for stability and remove unnecessary clutter, and always proceed cautiously.
Strong Winds
High winds can destabilise both you and your equipment, so the likes of scaffold towers should be dismantled until the wind is manageable. For a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), lower it to ground level until the conditions improve.
Keep in mind that winds exceeding 17mph are considered generally unsafe for working at height, so having an anemometer to hand to monitor wind speed is the best practice.
Thunder And Lightning
Whatever you do, do not attempt to dismantle an aluminium scaffold tower during a thunder and lightning storm, as they will be extremely dangerous to touch should lightning strike.
It is much safer to evacuate the area immediately, keeping your hands well away from the metal. There is simply no other solution other than to wait for the storm to pass before returning to work.
Feeling Unwell?
Paying attention to your health is just as important as paying attention to your surroundings. If you suddenly feel faint, nauseous, or experience vision or hearing problems, stop working immediately. Notify a colleague or supervisor and, if necessary, call emergency services.
When working at height, always carry a mobile phone or two-way radio in case of such emergencies.
Equipment Failure
If the structure you’re working on malfunctions in any way, immediately alert someone on the ground. Many MEWPs are equipped with manual emergency valves that allow a colleague to lower the platform safely.
In operations requiring a harness with a short lanyard to prevent falls, a post-fall rescue must happen within 10 minutes to avoid suspension trauma, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by restricted blood flow.
Prioritising Safety
When working at height, preparation and awareness are your best defences. However, emergencies can still occur. To ensure you’re ready for any eventuality, consider professional safety training. Ability International offers specialised courses on working at height, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to handle unexpected situations confidently.
Contact Ability International today to find out more.
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