APPEA HeightSafetyGuideline

GUIDELINES FOR
HEIGHT SAFETY
October 1999
Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association Limited

Level 3, 24 Marcus Clarke Street
GPO Box 2201
CANBERRA ACT 2600
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Telephone:
+61 2 6247 0960
Facsimile: +61 2 6247 0548
INTERNET:
http://www.appea.com.au
Email:
ACN 000 292 713
appea@appea.com.au
ISBN 0 908277 25 3
APPEA
Guidelines for Height Safety
PREFACE
The Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association Limited (APPEA)
has issued these Guidelines, on behalf of its member companies, to facilitate
consistency in the safe conduct of operations in the offshore petroleum industry.
The Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1967 [P(SL)A] is the principal legislation
controlling offshore oil and gas exploration and production in Australia. The P(SL)A
is supported by a series of objective-based regulations and directions that stipulate the
standards required to be achieved by the operator. The Petroleum (Submerged Lands)
(Management of Safety on Offshore Facilities) Regulations 1996 requires operators to
submit a Safety Case.
The Safety Case is a detailed document that outlines the types of safety studies
undertaken and the results obtained, and the management arrangements to ensure the
continued safety of an offshore facility and persons on it. It should demonstrate that
the operator knows what technical and human activities occur, how they are to be
managed and how safety will be assured throughout the operating life of the facility.
It must also identify the methods used for monitoring and reviewing all activities on
the facility.
The Commonwealth Government Department of Industry, Science and Resources
(DISR) document - Guidelines for the Preparation and Submission of Safety Cases
presents examples of the elements that would be expected to appear in a Safety Case
submitted to the Designated Authority within a given jurisdiction in Australian
waters.
The three main sections are:
Facility Description (FD);
Safety Management System (SMS); and
Formal Safety Assessment (FSA).
These Guidelines are intended to assist those persons having responsibilities in the
offshore industry for implementing offshore installation operations.
APPEA, as the collective representation of the upstream petroleum industry in
Australia, has issued these Guidelines to address the requirements of a Safety Case
and as a means to achieving a standardised approach to the development of consistent
GPO Box 2201
CANBERRA ACT 2600
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Telephone:
+61 2 6247 0960
Facsimile: +61 2 6247 0548
INTERNET:
Email:
ACN 000 292 713
appea@appea.com.au
ISBN 0 908277 25 3
APPEA
and good practices in the conduct of offshore operations. These Guidelines are not,
nor should they be implied as being, prescriptive.
This document provides guidance to ensure that offshore operations are conducted in
accordance with safe practices that could be considered to be at an equivalent to
good industry practice.
APPEA
Disclaimer
The use of these Guidelines does not in any way diminish the responsibility of
individual operating companies or their contractors to carry out operations safely
having due regard to their duty of care responsibilities, and to observe statutory
requirements. APPEA does not accept any responsibility for any incident or
consequence thereof, whether or not in violation of any law or regulation, which
arises or is alleged to have arisen from the use of these Guidelines.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.
The permission of Worksafe Western Australia in allowing reproduction of
components of their Code of Practice - Prevention of Falls at Workplaces is
gratefully acknowledged.
The following are acknowledged for their technical advice:
Dan Ahern
Mark Haney
Nick Webster
Capt. Bob Turrell
Atwood Oceanics.
Heightech Safety Systems.
Diamond Offshore General.
Sedco Forex
APPEA
CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................1

1.1
PURPOSE AND SCOPE................................................................................................................ 1
1.2
RELATIONSHIP WITH REGULATIONS ................................................................................... 1
2.0 WORKPLACE DESIGN ....................................................................................................4

AND CONSTRUCTION..............................................................................................................4
2.1
RISK MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................................. 4
2.2
DESIGN AND PLANNING........................................................................................................... 5
2.3
ACCESS AND EGRESS................................................................................................................ 5
2.4
EDGE PROTECTION.................................................................................................................... 6
2.5
PROTECTION OF HOLES AND OPENINGS ............................................................................. 7
2.5.1
Floors .................................................................................................................................... 7
2.5.2
MODU Moonpool Areas ....................................................................................................... 7
2.5.3
Drill Floor V Door area........................................................................................................ 8
2.6
GRID MESH AND CHECKER PLATE FLOORING................................................................... 8
3.0 SAFE WORKING AT HEIGHT........................................................................................9

3.1
OPERATIONS................................................................................................................................ 9
3.1.1
Personnel Lifting ................................................................................................................... 9
3.1.2
Working over Water ............................................................................................................ 11
3.1.3
Personnel Transfer.............................................................................................................. 11
3.1.4
Rescue Procedures .............................................................................................................. 13
3.1.5
Hot Work and Cutting/Abrasive Processes......................................................................... 14
3.2
EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................... 15
3.2.1
Fall Arrest Systems and Devices......................................................................................... 15
3.2.2
Safety Nets ........................................................................................................................... 26
3.2.3
Scaffolding........................................................................................................................... 27
3.2.4
Ladders................................................................................................................................ 28
3.5
Forklift Trucks..................................................................................................................... 32
4.0 COMPETENCY AND TRAINING .........................................................................33

4.1
PROVISION OF INFORMATION .............................................................................................. 33
4.2
INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING.............................................................................................. 33
4.2.1
Training Programmes ......................................................................................................... 33
4.2.2
Induction.............................................................................................................................. 33
4.2.3
"On the Job" Training......................................................................................................... 34
4.2.4
Prevention of Falls Training ............................................................................................... 34
4.2.5
Further Training or Re-training ......................................................................................... 35
4.2.6
Certification or Accreditation ............................................................................................. 35
APPEA
4.3
SUPERVISION ............................................................................................................................ 36
APPENDIX A..............................................................................................................................37
RISK MANAGEMENT ......................................................................................................................... 37
APPENDIX B..............................................................................................................................45
GLOSSARY........................................................................................................................................... 45
APPENDIX C..............................................................................................................................51
REFERENCE DOCUMENTS ............................................................................................................... 51
1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1
PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide the upstream petroleum industry with
clear and consistent guidance on the expected standards for management of height
safety at offshore facilities. They are intended to assist those persons having
responsibilities in the offshore industry for devising and managing safe working at
height operations.
The principle components of these guidelines are:
1.2
System design for working at height;

Safe working at height procedures;
Competency and training.
RELATIONSHIP WITH REGULATIONS
This document is one of a series of guidelines for use by the upstream petroleum
industry. Its relationship with Acts and Regulations is depicted in Figures 1.1 and 1.2.
The principal components are:
1. The Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1967, which empowers the Minister to
regulate.
2. Regulations, which set mandatory standards for industry to achieve.
3. Regulatory guidelines which set out the administrative procedures for the regime
and provide practical ways of meeting goals set by the regulations.
4. (a)
Upstream industry guidelines, which provide consistency across the
Australian upstream petroleum industry and assist companies setting out
their own standards.
(b) General guidelines, Codes, and Standards such as Australian Standards,
API Standards, etc, which provides useful references for companies setting
their own standards.
(c) Industry approved competency standards.
5. Company standards, which should provide the demonstration of managing risks to
as low as is reasonably practicable (ALARP).

GPO Box 2201
CANBERRA ACT 2600
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Telephone:
+61 2 6247 0960
Facsimile: +61 2 6247 0548
INTERNET:
Email:
ACN 000 292 713
appea@appea.com.au
ISBN 0 908277 25 3
APPEA
Figure 1.1 Relationship Between the Contents of this Document, Safety Case
Guidelines, Current Legislation and Operator Safety Documents
Guidelines for Height Safety Offshore
APPEA
Guidelines
Height Safety
Offshore
DISR
Safety Case
Guidelines
Facility Description
P(SL)A
Schedule of
Requirements
P(SL) (Management of Safety on Offshore Facilities) Regulations
Safety Management
System
Leadership and
Commitment
The P(SL)A contains

specific requirements for
petroleum operations
Planning
Workplace Design and
Construction
Facility
Hazard Register
Implementation
Monitoring and Evaluation

Safe Working at Height
The hazards for each facility

are described in the Hazard
Register as determined from
use of hazard identification
processes.
Audit and Review
Major Accident
Events
Formal Safety
Assessment
Competency and Training
With the Hazard Register,

Major Accident Events for
each facility form the basis
of risk assessment. MAEs
are established from hazard
identification and QRA
processes.
Hazard identification
Risk Assessment Studies
Control measures
General Safety
Guidelines
Temporary Refuge
Fire Risk Analysis
Industry
Incidents
Evacuation, escape,rescue
Emergency safety training
Adequacy of escape
routes
ESD Systems
Results of investigations into

accidents and incidents can
be used to improve safety in
this area
Fire protection systems

Work permit systems
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Figure 1.2 General Relationship Between this Document (an Upstream Industry
Guideline) and the Acts and Regulations in Australia
P(SL)A
P(SL)A
Management of
Safety Regulations
DISR Guidelines for Preparation

and Submission of Safety Cases
General Guidelines
Codes of Practice
and Standards
Upstream
Industry
Guidelines
Company Standards
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APPEA
2.0
WORKPLACE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
2.1
RISK MANAGEMENT
A process of risk management should be implemented to properly design and plan for
people working at heights. This process is applicable to any stage of the life of
offshore facilities and includes design, construction, operations, maintenance and
abandonment.
The process can be divided into three main steps:
Identification of risks;
This involves identifying each risk to which a person at a workplace is likely to
be exposed in relation to a person falling from one level to another at the
workplace.
Assessing the risks;

This involves looking at the possibility of injury or harm occurring to a person if
exposed to a hazard identified.
Controlling the risks.

This involves introducing measures to eliminate or reduce the likelihood or
consequences of a person falling.
A simple risk management tool is the process of Job Safety Analysis (JSA). A JSA is
usually undertaken by the Supervisor in conjunction with the work team and consists
of breaking down the job into individual steps, identifying the hazards associated with
each step and putting in place control measures that eliminate or reduce the risk to as
low as reasonably practicable.
A safe system of work should always be provided.
Unless the outcome of the risk assessment establishes an alternative safe working
practice, fall protection should be provided for all persons exposed to a fall of 2.0
metres or greater.
The provision of fall protection below 2 metres will depend on the outcome of the risk
assessment however for all work activities conducted above water, irrespective of
height, fall protection should be provided.
The process of risk management is more comprehensively covered in Appendix A of

these guidelines and lists items for consideration throughout the identification,
assessment and control processes.
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2.2
DESIGN AND PLANNING
The planning or designing of a facility or structure, should ensure that the design and
construction allows persons to properly construct, maintain, repair or service the
facility or structure in a safe manner.
This also extends to the demolition, modification, renovation, maintenance or normal
operation of a facility, structure or plant.
It is therefore important at the design and planning stage to give consideration to the
prevention of falls not only during construction but also for subsequent use or
maintenance of the facility, structure or plant. This should include consideration of:
safe access to or egress from any work area;

provision of permanent guard rails or edge protection;
use of temporary work platforms (e.g. scaffolds, work platforms);
location and operation of plant and equipment;
use of fall arrest systems and devices, including the provision of suitably located
temporary and permanent anchorage points;
provision of safety nets.
Other matters that should be considered include:
reducing the risk when working at heights (e.g. the installation of guard rails to
perimeter structural members prior to erection);
reducing the need to work at heights by pre-fabricating modules on the ground
before lifting them into position;
provision of permanent safety mesh;
location of and access to equipment for maintenance purposes;
identification and location of services (e.g. power, air, water);
identification and location of operational equipment.
Design, redesign or procedural controls generally eliminate, reduce or minimise risk

more efficiently than a reliance on personal protective equipment alone. The use of
personal protective equipment should only be seen as a last resort control measure.
2.3
ACCESS AND EGRESS
If people are required to work in areas where there is the risk of falling, employers
should provide a safe method for people to get to and from, and move around that
work area.
This should take into account the tools and equipment they may be required to carry
to and from, and around the work area.
In providing safe access to and egress from, and movement around a work area,
consideration should be given to:
the installation of fixed work platforms, walkways and stairways;
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the use of temporary work platforms such as:
work baskets
crawl boards
ladders or safety steps
scaffolds
the frequency and number of people who may need to use the access to or egress
from the work area. Supervision and regular inspection should also be considered;
the location and space required for any plant, equipment or materials used;
the method of getting plant, equipment and materials to the work area;
exposure of access ways to the weather (e.g. rain can make surfaces slippery,
strong winds can cause loss of hand grip);
the provision of protection from falling objects;
the assessment of manual handling tasks including the provision of mechanical
lifting aids;
the provision of adequate natural or artificial lighting to all access ways;
all access ways are clear of obstructions and readily accessible.
In providing safe access and egress, consideration should be given to the possible
means of reducing the risk of falling as outlined in these guidelines.
Access to and egress from large items of plant and heavy equipment during operations
and maintenance activities may result in fall injuries. In providing safe access and
egress, consideration should be given to the provision of steps, permanent access
ladders, walkways and guard rails.
2.4
EDGE PROTECTION
Where guard rails are used to reduce the risk of a person falling from a height they
should comply with AS 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders Design, construction and installation, or AS/NZS 1576.1 Scaffolding - General
requirements.
Where protection of the perimeter of a work area is provided by a guard rail system it
should incorporate:
a top rail, mid rail and fender (toe) board when structural slopes are between 0
degrees to 15 degrees from horizontal;
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Where structural slopes exceed 15 degrees but not 45 degrees, a bottom rail
should be provided in addition and consideration given for the installation of infill
mesh panel to mid rail height. The infill mesh panel may assist to reduce injury to
a person sliding down the roof or structure into the railing and will minimise the
possibility of objects falling from the roof or structure.
Where structural slopes exceed 45 degrees, the slope is unsuitable to work on
without a support system, such as a roof ladder or scaffold platform, to prevent
sliding.
The guard rail system should be constructed to withstand a force of 0.55kN

(approximately equivalent to 55kg) applied at any point of the guard rail system.
The top handrail should be not less than 900mm or more than 1100mm above the
working surface.
If access points are required for equipment they should be adequately protected with
gates, safety chains or any other means to prevent a person falling.
Where guard rail systems are intended to be used in conjunction with steel structures,
designers and builders should plan for the guard rail and fixings to be attached to the
panels prior to the structures being raised from the ground.
2.5
PROTECTION OF HOLES AND OPENINGS
2.5.1
Floors
All holes and openings in floors, other than a stairwell, with dimensions greater than
200mm x 200mm, or with a diameter greater than 200mm, should be protected.
Holes or openings in any floor should be covered with material of adequate strength
to prevent entry by objects or persons and be securely fixed.
Any holes or openings covered with wire mesh should not be used as a work platform.
When installing services in an area separated by wire mesh, only that part of the wire
mesh which allows access for installation should be removed. The cover should then
be modified to fit around the installed service.
2.5.2
MODU Moonpool Areas
Moonpool areas should be protected by guard rails at all times. Where operational
activities require the removal of sections of the guard railing, alternative means of fall
protection should be provided.
Whilst working over water, the additional wearing of a buoyancy vest is required.
No person should be allowed within 1 metre of an unprotected opening unless other
means of fall protection are in place.
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2.5.3
Drill Floor V Door area
Openings in the V door area should be protected when operational activities in that
area are not taking place.
Care must be taken when operations are being carried out in this area. Appropriate
and practicable control measures should be implemented to ensure the safety of
personnel at all times.
2.6
GRID MESH AND CHECKER PLATE FLOORING
Grid mesh and checker plate flooring used for walkways, accessways and working
platforms should be securely fashioned.
Where grid mesh or checker plate flooring is used it should be securely fixed and
assembled, in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. Where possible, it
should be fitted to a structure, prior to the structure being lifted into permanent
position.
During installation, this type of flooring should be secured by tack welding, panel
grips or other means to prevent movement before being permanently fixed.
If panels of grid mesh or checker plate flooring are removed the edge should be
protected. Dimensions of the removed panels may result in openings or holes
requiring protection in accordance with these guidelines.
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3.0
SAFE WORKING AT HEIGHT
3.1
OPERATIONS
3.1.1
Personnel Lifting
Personnel lifting operations are carried out on a facility for operational and
maintenance tasks as well as the transfer of personnel from the facility. It is important
that priority be given to personnel lifting operations by ensuring that no other
operation is undertaken concurrently that could affect the safety of personnel being
lifted. Prior to commencing operations, JSAs should be undertaken to ensure that
effective control measures are in place that eliminate or reduce the risk to an
acceptable level.
All lifting equipment used for personnel lifting should be designed in accordance with
the APPEA Guidelines for Lifting Equipment, Section 4.8, Man-Riding Equipment.
Training
It is important that personnel involved in personnel lifting operations are suitably
trained and deemed to be competent. A review of the training requirements should be
undertaken by the employer at regular intervals to ensure that a sufficient number of
trained personnel are available at all times. Training must encompass all aspects of
personnel lifting in particular communication methods and procedures. Training is
covered more comprehensively in Section 4 of this document
Communications
Suitable communication methods and procedures should be in place for all personnel
lifting operations. An observer/signaller should be provided at all times and whilst
personnel lifting operations are underway, no other duties should be performed.
The use of radio communication in addition to hand signals should be provided
between the observer/signaller and the operator of the lifting equipment.
Where man riding operations are conducted, radio communication should also be
provided to the person being lifted.
Where personnel transfer operations are being conducted, radio communication
should also be established with the Master of the vessel.
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Procedures
Air Hoists
The use of air hoists for man riding operations should be undertaken in a safe and
controlled manner due to the inherent risks (being pulled into the equipment, falling
out of the harness, equipment failure).
Man riding operations should only be seen as a last resort for carrying out work
at heights. It is always preferable for persons to work from a stable work
platform (such as scaffolding) or to lower the work to deck level.
Where air hoists are used for man riding operations, the following points should be
considered:
all man riding operations be assessed and signed off by a supervisor;

where there are more than one air hoist rated for man riding, select the air hoist
that affords the operator of the winch the clearest view of the person to be hoisted;
at all times when operating over water, a buoyancy vest should be worn;
all air hoists used for man riding operations be rated and certified as such;
provision be made for the mechanical lowering of hoisted person in the event of
loss of power/air (reserve air vessels);
where possible, use certified work baskets as an alternative to a riding belt.
Work Baskets
Certified work baskets should only be used for personnel lifts;

Personnel operating from within a work basket should wear a full body harness
with lanyard assembly and be securely attached to the work basket;
The number of people for which the work basket is rated should not be exceeded;
When working over water, a buoyancy vest should be worn;
Personnel should only enter or leave the work basket whilst it is located on or
secured to a solid structure.
Personnel Baskets
The use of personnel baskets for transfer of personnel should only be undertaken
when no other alternatives are available, the risks are determined to be ALARP
and the operation can be conducted in a safe manner. The operation should only
be carried out with the approval of the Person in Charge of the facility and with
the agreement of the personnel being transferred and the Master of the vessel
involved.
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No more than 4 persons should be transferred simultaneously;

Personnel baskets should only be used for the transfer of personnel and hand
luggage;
Use of personnel baskets for transferring personnel should be limited to daylight
hours only, except for emergency situations;
Personnel being transferred should wear a buoyancy vest.
3.1.2
Working over Water
Where personnel are required to work over water, a documented set of procedures
should be developed and operate under the Permit to Work system.
Where practicable, all operations that require personnel to be working over the side of
the facility should be scheduled when the supply boat is in the vicinity. Where this is
not practicable, suitable additional control measures should be in place to ensure the
safety of personnel.
Where diving operations are being carried out, working over water operations should
not be undertaken.
Where this is not practicable, working over the side operations should be restricted to
areas away from diving operations to ensure the safety of dive personnel from
dropped objects.
3.1.3
Personnel Transfer
Responsibilities
The duties of personnel in supervising or carrying out the personnel basket transfer
should be clearly defined. Generally, this would include the Person in Charge of the
facility, the crane operator, the Master of the vessel, and other people nominated by
the Person in Charge and the Master of the vessel to undertake specific duties. Key
points that need to addressed by personnel having specific responsibilities are detailed
below.
The Person in Charge of the facility should:
be aware of the reason for the transfer;

be satisfied with the fitness and training of the people to be transferred;
be satisfied as to the suitability of the vessel;
know the limitations of visibility and sea state;
be aware of the limitations on transfer by night;
be aware of the suitability of the crane for personnel transfer;
check the wind speed limitations on crane operations;
establish satisfactory communications with the Master of the vessel involved in
the transfer;
ensure that participants understand the procedures involved;
be satisfied with the competence and experience of the crane driver;
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be satisfied with the inspection and testing of the personnel basket.
The Master of the vessel should confirm to the person in charge of the facility that:
the transfer has been accepted and the procedures have been understood;
the vessel has a satisfactory station keeping capability;
the deck crew have been fully briefed;
the people to be transferred have been adequately briefed and are fit to be
transferred;
there is sufficient clear space on deck to land the personnel basket safely;
communications have been established.
The crane operator should ensure that:
the crane is fully operational;

the wind speed is satisfactory for safe operation;
the requirements and procedures involved are clearly understood;
the dogger and the transfer area are clearly visible;
proper communications have been established.
The dogger and deck supervisor should ensure that:
the transfer procedure is understood;

they are clearly identifiable as dogger and deck supervisor;
the personnel basket is correctly used;
the transferees understand the procedures;
communications have been established;
they have established a full view of their respective transfer areas.
Individuals who are to be transferred should:
ensure that they understand the transfer procedure;

confirm that they are agreeable to the transfer;
be able to use correctly the safety equipment provided;
observe all instructions from those in charge of the operation.
Transfer Considerations
Suitability of the Vessel
The type of vessel considered suitable to carry out a transfer should be determined by
its ability to maintain station alongside the facility and have sufficient clear deck
space to safely receive the basket.
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Weather and Sea Conditions

Weather and sea conditions are critical factors impacting on the safety of personnel
basket transfers. Factors which should be taken into account include visibility, wind
and sea state. Procedures should be in place which specify the maximum wind speed
and sea state beyond which basket transfer is not permissible, including the wind
speed limitations for crane operations and the effect of weather conditions on the
stability of the vessel.
Safety Equipment and Rescue Procedures

The procedures should specify the type of safety equipment to be worn by personnel
being transferred and the rescue arrangements made.
Personnel being transferred should wear buoyancy vest, suitable clothing and other
specified safety equipment. Buoyancy vests should be equipped with suitable means
of illumination during night transfers.
Where the transfer is to a vessel other than the standby vessel, the standby vessel
should be in close attendance during transfer, with the rescue boat ready for
immediate launching.
Training
Personnel who are involved in personnel transfer operations require appropriate
training in the techniques involved. In addition, personnel being transferred should,
where possible, be adequately trained in the transfer procedures. Inexperienced
people or those not trained in the use of personnel baskets should always be
accompanied by someone who has been trained in personnel transfer operations.
3.1.4
Rescue Procedures
A rescue procedure should be planned for each site, be operational in the event of a
fall and provide for the immediate rescue of a person. Personnel should, where
possible, not work alone.
Fall arrest systems and devices should be provided to effectively complete a rescue.
Appropriate personnel should be trained in rescue procedures and be competent in the
use of fall arrest systems and devices.
Rescue of fallen persons can be a strenuous and difficult process. Personnel
performing rescue operations should be both physically and mentally capable of
undertakings those tasks without placing themselves, or the person being rescued, at
risk.
Individual fall arrest systems should only be set up after consideration of a rescue
procedure in the event of a person sustaining a fall. In many situations the person
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who has fallen will be unable to rescue themself or even provide assistance to the
rescuers.
During the rescue process, neither the rescuers nor the person being rescued should be
placed in a situation where they could fall or where injury may occur through overexertion.
Where rescue is carried out in a confined space, the rescuers should not enter the
confined space unless they are following the correct confined space procedures and
using the appropriate safety equipment.
3.1.5
Hot Work and Cutting/Abrasive Processes
Hot work, including welding, and the use of power assisted cutting devices or
abrasive processes should not usually be carried out whilst the employee is using a
fall arrest system. Exceptions to this include circumstances where practicable
alternatives do not exist or where adequate precautions have been taken to protect
people from injury and equipment from accidental damage. Such precautions should
rely on identified controls other than the skill and judgement of the operator.
Contact with a flame or hot object can result in the failure of a fibre rope due to its
low melting point and the tension, under load, in the rope. Fibre ropes also have little
resistance to damage from power cutting devices such as angle grinders and failure
can occur in a very short time.
Abrasive processes, such as sand blasting, can in addition to cutting the rope cause a
build up of grit in the fibres that will increase wear.
The use of steel wire rope lanyards as a safety measure may not be acceptable where
exposed flame torches are used as intense flames can readily cut through wire rope.
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3.2
EQUIPMENT
3.2.1
Fall Arrest Systems and Devices
Note: Definitions for terms used in this Section are found in Appendix B.
A fall arrest system is any system intended to safely arrest an individuals fall. These
systems may include lanyard/anchorage combinations, inertia reels, static lines or any
combination of equipment provided to arrest a fall.
A fall arrest system is not to be confused with a restraint system which restrains an
individual from actually reaching an unprotected edge or penetration.
Where practicable, a restraint system should be given preference over a fall arrest
system.
Fall arrest systems and devices should be provided where other means are not
practicable or to provide greater protection for the worker.
Choosing the most appropriate fall arrest system and device is essential. The correct
installation and use of such equipment is critical to its effectiveness when arresting a
fall.
When planning the site layout and sequence of construction for installing a fall arrest
system, consideration should be given to:
the most appropriate fall arrest system and method of installation;

provision of anchorage points for static lines capable of supporting imposed loads;
provision of safe access to and egress from a work area for persons installing
anchorage points.
The employer and employees should ensure there is safe access to and egress from the
work area before work commences. This includes:
assessment of wind and weather;

organising of:
fall prevention equipment;

access;
personal protective equipment;
formulation of specific instructions for workers;
means of rescuing persons following arrested falls.
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Cable (static line)

The cable used in the installation of safety lines should comply with AS 3569 Steel
wire ropes. The cable should be of a minimum diameter of 10mm and provide a
minimum safety factor of 10. The cable should have a guaranteed breaking strain
(GBS) of 60kN (approximately equivalent to 6 tonne).
There are many variables to consider in the erection of fixed static lines. These
include the number of people on the system at any one time, the length of the system
and the length between intermediate supports, length of the lanyard assembly of the
user and the distance below the user. Engineer designed systems may be necessary to
consider all these variables.
Static lifeline anchor points should comply with the manufacturer's instructions or
engineering design calculations.
Tensioning should be achieved by turnbuckles or other appropriate means.
The cable should be placed to eliminate the risk of tripping. Where practicable the
cable should be located no less than 2 metres above the floor of the work area.
Fixed static line fitted with a shock absorber for use with safety harnesses and
lanyards.
Cable Spans (static lines)

The cable should be supported at each column or in accordance with an engineer's
specifications.
Where practicable the height of the cable should be higher than the dorsal D
attachment located on the rear of the harness.
Where turnbuckles are used to tension static lines they should be as described in this
Section.
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Where the static line is positioned between the perimeter columns of a structure, the
anchorages and line supports should be positioned on the inside face of the columns
where practicable and the columns used to anchor static lines.
Lines between supports should be free of obstructions to allow uninterrupted
movement for persons who may be attached to the line.
If a line passes around a column corner or other sharp edge it should be suitably
protected to prevent damage.
Cable End (termination of static lines)

The termination of the cable should be by way of a thimble eye. Where practicable,
ends should be secured by one of the following:
double base clamps with a minimum of 3, at equal spaces with a minimum

200mm tail past the last clamp;
machine splice with thimble eye.
Note: Cables and fittings may be secured directly to anchorage points with D or bow
shackles of a minimum size of 12mm or having a safe working load of not less than
20kN (approximately equivalent to 2 tonne). The pin of the shackle should be moused
(lashed) to the shackle.
Installation of Anchorage Points
Note: All bolts referred to in this document should comply with AS 2317 Collared
eyebolts. Additional information relating to facility lifting devices is found in APPEA
Guidelines for Lifting Equipment.
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Anchorage points used should be located as high as equipment permits as it is

dangerous to work above the point of anchorage.
The diameter of the threaded sections of bolts and their anchorages should not be less
than 16mm.
Personal fall arrest anchor points should:
be designed to withstand a static load of 15 kN (approximately 1500 kg),

be designed to limit a free fall to as short as practicable but not exceed 2 metres,
be placed above the dorsal D ring,
be positioned to avoid/minimise swing fall. A second line may be used to reduce
swing fall,
be inspected prior to and following each use and be inspected by a competent
person every six months.
Turnbuckles
If turnbuckles are used the threaded section shall be a minimum of 12mm diameter.
Turnbuckles should be of a type that will allow visual inspection of the condition and
extension of the threaded sections.
The frame should be locked or moused (lashed) to the eyebolt to prevent slackening
due to vibration, shock or spin in the line attached.
Turnbuckles should be in accordance with AS 2319 Rigging screws and turnbuckles.
Temporary Static Lines (horizontal lifeline systems)

A 16mm diameter nylon rope which complies with AS 4142.3 Man-made fibre rope
for static life rescue lines and which provides a minimum safety factor of 10 may be
used. The line should have a guaranteed breaking strain (GBS) of 80kN
(approximately equivalent to 8 tonne).
Tension may be achieved by a self-tensioning block that should be capable of
automatically locking the line and manually releasing the line.
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Too much tension on the line will affect the overall strength of the system, too little
will affect the ground clearance required.
Shock absorption - the self-tensioning block should be designed to reduce shock
loading by means of a dynamic friction facility which guarantees that the maximum
force generated on the line will not be greater than 6kN (approximately equivalent to
600 kg).
Line end (termination of temporary static line) should be secured by one of the
following:
machine splice (ferrule); or

figure of eight knot.
The maximum span between anchor points for a temporary lifeline should be no
greater than 4 metres unless specifically designed by an engineer to be longer. This is
due to the dynamic sag factor of the temporary lifeline and should be taken into
account when calculating maximum ground clearance (MGC) requirement for a fall
arrest system.
Total fall distance is defined in AS/NZS 1891.1 as the total distance a person is likely
to fall during both the free and restrained parts of a fall, and including the maximum
dynamic extension of all supporting components.
Designers of static lines should ensure the system is designed so that persons falling
will not crash to the ground. Calculations should consider:
tension on the line;

shock absorber extension;
personal energy absorber of the person's lanyard;
slide of the D ring;
person's height.
The person's weight will have a significant effect on the sag of the line as well as
climate (temperature, wet or dry), type of knots and age of the system.
Harnesses, Lanyards and Equipment

Body type harnesses of the parachute type should be used. The harness should be
connected to the lanyard assembly or lifeline at the top dorsal (back) position. If a
lifeline and rope - grab device is used on steeply sloping surfaces, the user needs to
have the device located in front. This will allow safe manual operation of the
mechanism.
WAIST TYPE BELTS AND SIT HARNESSES SHOULD NOT BE USED AS A FALL ARREST
SYSTEM AS THEY MAY NOT SECURE THE PERSON FROM FALLING OUT.
Anchor points should not be sited below the attachment point of the harness, e.g.
dorsal position.
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There should be a minimum of slack in the safety line between the person and
attachment to the anchorage. The fall arrest system should be so designed to limit a
free fall to a maximum of 2 metres.
Lanyards should incorporate a personal energy absorber and be fitted with double
action devices, and as an assembly should comply with AS 1891.
All mating components should be checked to ensure they are compatible with one
another. Components should not be able to jam in one another in a way which may
overstress one or the other, e.g. in some snaphook to snaphook connections, or affect
the operation of the items being connected. The check should be repeated each time
there is a change in either component.
Care should be taken to ensure that the configuration of the equipment does not create
a situation that can cause roll-out from the connector or undue loading on the gate of a
connector.
SNAPHOOKS WITH A DOUBLE LOCKING DEVICE OR ACTION SHOULD BE USED TO
MINIMISE THE POSSIBILITY OF DISCONNECTION.
In choosing the most appropriate fall arrest equipment for a particular application
consideration should be given to any special requirements of the materials used in
manufacture of the equipment.
Equipment should be inspected prior to and after use for signs of any damage from
cutting or abrasion.
Workers using fall protection equipment who are outside the safety of handrails should
be attached to an anchor point or a fall arrest safety system at all times.
Workers using fall protection equipment should not work alone. A worker suspended in
fall protection equipment should be rescued as soon as possible. For this reason,
workers should be capable of conducting a rescue of a fallen worker and be familiar
with on site rescue equipment and procedures.
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Scaffolders should have a safe system of work or use fall protection devices including
harnesses and lanyard assemblies.
Self Retracting Lanyards

Self-retracting lanyards should incorporate a personal energy absorber and comply
with EN 360.
Self-retracting lanyards can be used to prevent falls where workers are required to
carry out their work near an unprotected edge.
Self-retracting lanyards are not designed for continuous support but become effective
in the event of a fall. They should not be used as working supports by locking the
system and allowing it to support the user during normal work.
Inertia reels may be less effective for certain applications, e.g. stopping a person
falling down an inclined surface. Inertia reels should be only sited from vertical to 45
degrees. A site test should be carried out if it is to be used on a slope less than 45
degrees.
Self-retracting lanyards and safety harnesses can be used with a static line or fixed
anchorages.
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Self retracting lanyards and safety harnesses can be used with a static line or fixed
anchorages.
Pendulum Effect
This is a potential hazard with the use of individual fall arrest systems.
Swing down - can occur if an inertia reel or work positioning device is extended
diagonally so that the line makes an extreme angle with the perimeter edge of the
structure.
In this situation, the forces generated in an arrested fall over the edge will cause the
line to rotate back along the perimeter edge until it reaches a position directly in line
with the anchorage point of the inertia reel and at right angles with the perimeter edge.
As the line moves back in this way, its unsupported section lengthens, thus dropping
the attached worker further than the original (arrested) fall distance. If the length of
the unsupported line equals the height of the structure then the worker will hit the
ground.
To eliminate the pendulum effect, place the anchorage point perpendicular to the
position of the line at the perimeter edge. A mobile anchorage may be considered.
The use of second anchorages and belay devices is another way of minimising this
effect.
Swing back - in an arrested outward fall, particularly from a perpendicular edge, a

person will swing back into the structure and collide with any obstructions in the path
of the swing. If this situation can arise, the use of an individual fall arrest system
should be re-assessed.
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THE PENDULUM EFFECT REQUIRES CONSIDERATION PRIOR TO DECIDING THE

LOCATION OF ANCHORAGE POINTS.
Drop lines - drop lines should be of a minimum knotted strength of 22kN

(approximately equivalent to 2200 kg) and be of a nominal diameter of 11-12mm.
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They should have a fixed eye at one end for attachment to an anchor point or static
line, and be knotted at the other end to stop a rope grab device from becoming
detached. A drop line should be of kernmantle or 3-strand construction.
Ladder and Tower Safety Systems

Fall protection on permanent ladders is sometimes provided in the form of a vertical
rail, cable or rope that runs next to or in the middle of the ladder and to which a
locking device is attached. The person climbing the ladder is connected to the locking
device with a short lanyard attached to his or her fall arrest harness. Should the
person slip from the ladder the locking device will sense the acceleration of the body
and lock to the rail, cable or rope.
Temporary systems should comply with the requirements of droplines. The locking
device should not be capable of damaging the line in the case of a fall.
Permanent systems should be of wire or rail construction and should be installed
according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Wire systems should be in accordance with AS 1891.3 and be sited in the middle or
side of the ladder. The entire device should be capable of sustaining a load of 15kN
(approximately equivalent to 1500 kg).
Lanyard length should not exceed 300 mm.
Rail devices should be anchored in accordance with AS 1891.3. They should be sited
to allow clearance of the self-locking device. Junction points may be installed to
allow both vertical and horizontal movement.
The system should be designed so that when disconnecting while at height, the user is
either not near an unprotected edge or can connect to another anchorage point prior to
disconnection from the rail, cable or rope system.
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Rope Grabs (Ascenders)
Rope grabs should be designed and constructed so that:
Inadvertent removal of the rope grab is not possible. Upon removal of the hand,
rope grabs should grip the rope in one direction.
In the event of failure of the primary support system, the rope grab will not fail
and will not cause the rope to fail.
The rope grab should be able to arrest the fall within 1.5 metres without causing
complete failure of the rope.
Inspection of Fall Arrest Systems and Devices

Users should be aware that fall prevention depends upon the continued efficiency and
durability of fall arrest systems and devices. It is essential they be maintained
correctly with inspections and examination of all components by a competent person
in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations, at least once every six
months, or after an extended storage period.
IF A FALL ARREST SYSTEM AND DEVICE HAS BEEN USED TO ARREST A FALL IT
SHOULD BE WITHDRAWN FROM SERVICE AND BE INSPECTED BY A COMPETENT
PERSON.
All safety belts and harnesses should be inspected before use.

An employer should consult the manufacturer if there is any doubt that a belt or
harness could be affected by cleaning materials, atmospheric contaminants or
hazardous substances.
Guidance on the inspection of fall arrest systems, devices and equipment is given in
AS 2626 and AS 4626
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Note: As at April 1999, AS/NZS 1891.4 is in draft form and is scheduled to replace
AS 2626 and AS 4626.
Inspection of Anchorages
The Person in Charge of a facility should ensure that:
each anchorage or system of anchorages at the workplace is inspected by a

competent person at regular intervals;
in the case of an anchorage that is permanently fixed and in regular use, it is
inspected at intervals not greater than 6 months;
in the case of an anchorage that is permanently fixed but not in regular use, it is
inspected before it is used.
Where, in the opinion of the competent person, an anchorage is worn or the load
bearing capacity of the anchorage may be impaired, the Person in Charge of the
facility should ensure that:
the anchorage is not used while it is in that condition;

while the anchorage is in that condition, it is tagged to indicate that it is not to be
used,
that an anchorage or system of anchorages that has been repaired is not used
unless it has been inspected by a competent person who is of the opinion that the
anchorage or system of anchorages can be used again.
ALL ANCHORAGES SHOULD BE VISIBLY CHECKED PRIOR TO USE.
3.2.2
Safety Nets
Safety nets can provide a satisfactory means of protection against falling while
allowing workers maximum flexibility of movement.
Where safety nets are used as a fall protection measure, employers should ensure that:
safety nets are constructed of material of sufficient strength to catch a falling

person and/or debris;
perimeter safety nets are in position before any work is commenced;
cables are installed along the length of the structure. Safety nets are hung across
these cables and moved along as the work proceeds;
nets are hung as close as is practicable to the underside of the work area;
there is sufficient tension and clearance to prevent a falling person contacting any
surface or structure below the net;
safety nets are installed only by a competent person;
perimeter safety nets are not greater than 2 metres below the working area and
extend out at least 2.5 metres from the working point;
nets are stored correctly in dry, shaded areas. Good air circulation is necessary;
combustible material is not allowed to accumulate in suspended nets;
no welding or oxy-cutting is performed above safety nets;
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nets are inspected after installation, relocation or repair;

nets are not used in an environment that exposes them to damage from chemicals
or heat.
When installing safety nets, scaffolding and/or fall arrest systems should be used as
appropriate.
3.2.3
Scaffolding
Scaffolding can be an effective barrier in preventing falls. There are specific

requirements that apply to the design, construction and erection of scaffolding.
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Issues to be considered:
scaffolding that exceeds, or is likely to exceed a height of 4m should be erected,

altered or dismantled by the holder of a certificate of competency for the particular
class of scaffolding or a person training under the direct supervision of such a
person;
where the possible fall height is less than 4 metres, the scaffolding should only be
erected, altered or dismantled by a competent person trained in respect of the
particular type of scaffolding being used;
mobile tower frame scaffolds can be used to provide safe working platforms;
scaffolding that is incomplete and left unattended should have danger tags and
warning signs attached at appropriate locations to prevent use;
completed scaffold should be inspected and marked by a competent person before
initial use, after any alteration or repair and at intervals not exceeding 30 days.
Additional inspections should be carried out by a competent person following an
occurrence such as a severe storm;
provision of safe access to and egress from the scaffold; and
provision of edge protection (e.g. guard rails and fender boards) at every open
edge of a work platform.
Scaffolding should conform to AS/NZS 1576 Scaffolding Parts 1-5.

Scaffolding may be used as fall protection around the edge of a roof by incorporating
guardrailing into the scaffolding.
3.2.4
Ladders
Portable Ladders
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The incorrect use of ladders is the cause of a large number of falls from height each
year across all industry sectors.
Many falls from heights result from the non-use of ladders where crates, stools, desks
etc. are used to access heights instead of properly setting up a ladder for the purpose.
It is important to ensure the ladder is set up on a level area and the base is located a
distance from the wall approximately 1/4 of the vertical height of the ladder.
Correct arrangement of ladder.

too Base about 1 out from wall to
slipping
4 vertical height.
Base of ladder positioned

far from wall. Sudden
can occur.
The maximum length of a step ladder should be 5.5 metres, a single ladder 9 metres
and an extension ladder 15 metres.
Ladders should be used as a means of access to or egress from a work area and not
used as a platform. Where ladders are used, consideration should be given to:
choosing the type of ladder appropriate to the task. All portable ladders should
comply with the appropriate Australian Standard;
providing a slip resistant base, rungs or steps;
making sure all locking devices on the ladder are secure;
ensuring the ladder is in good condition;
repairing ladders only in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications;
wearing slip resistant shoes;
when a person is stepping from the ladder ensuring that they have a firm and level
work platform, free from obstructions to step onto;
ensuring that the stiles (sides) of the ladder extend at least 1m above the steppingoff point and that the ladder is securely fixed. Sufficient platform area should be
provided at the stepping off point;
ensuring the ladder is the right height for the task to avoid reaching or stretching.
Keep the body centred between the stiles at all times;
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securing the top and base of the ladder against displacement;

using the ladder on firm, stable and level ground;
ensuring that metal or wire bound ladders are never used close to energised power
lines.
In working from a ladder to conduct maintenance, monitor plant operation, service

plant or for access to or egress from a work area, a person should:
always have two hands free to ascend and descend a ladder (i.e. all materials and
tools which cannot be safely secured from the workers belt should be
independently transferred or hoisted to the work location);
be able to brace themself at all times when working from a single or extension
ladder;
perform all work while facing the ladder;
place their feet no higher than 900 mm where the top of the ladder rests against
the support;
not perform a task that requires over-reaching (i.e. body should always be centred
in the stiles of the ladder);
not work over another person;
be the only person on the ladder;
only use tools, powered or manual, which are easily operated one-handed;
not undertake work involving restricted vision or hot work;
wear a fall arrest system if there is likelihood of a free fall.
Step and trestle ladders should be used only in the fully open position. A stepladder
may be used in the closed position by leaning against a support, however care should
be taken to ensure that the load is carried by the front stiles only. Trestle ladders only
shall be used to support any plank upon which a person has to work.
Other means of preventing falls may be necessary in association with the use of
ladders where a risk assessment determines additional protection is necessary.
Ladder Brackets
Ladder bracket scaffolds may only be used for very light work where an alternative is
not practicable, such as for signwriting.
They should not be used for general construction work. When used they should be in
accordance with clause 10.2.5 of AS/NZS 4576 Guidelines for scaffolding.
Permanent Ladders
In areas where permanent ladders are installed for safe access to or egress from, or as
a working platform for operating, inspection, servicing or maintenance, they should
be in accordance with AS 1657 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders Design, construction and installation.
Permanent ladders should be fitted with a protective back guard where a person could
fall more than 6 metres from the ladder. The base of the protective backguard should
be at a height of 2 metres above the floor or landing platform.
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If a series of ladders are used to gain access to a surface, landing platforms should be
provided at every 6 metre interval.
In situations where it is not practicable to provide a protective back guard such as in
confined spaces, alternative fall protection measures should be provided.
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3.5
Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks are used on a facility for movement of palletised chemicals. Personnel
should not be raised on the tynes of forklift trucks. Mancages, engineer designed and
constructed in accordance with AS 2359 Powered industrial trucks (known as the SAA
Industrial Truck Code), correctly attached to the forklift carriage, provide a safe
means of raising personnel and equipment to an elevated work area. Pallets should
never be used as work platforms on the tynes of forklifts.
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4.0
COMPETENCY AND TRAINING
4.1
PROVISION OF INFORMATION
Employers should provide information to employees to make them aware of areas

where the risk of falling may exist and to enable them to perform their work safely in
these areas.
Information should be provided in a form that all employees at the workplace can
understand. These may include:
using audio-visual aids;

using graphics and signs;
using short, simple English phrases;
live demonstration.
Personnel should be assessed to ensure they understand and can implement the
training provided.
4.2
INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING
The type of instruction and training given could include:
an induction which covers site instructions and policies;

"on the job" training;
"in house" training programme;
industry based or formal training (eg. accredited or certificated courses).
4.2.1
Training Programmes
An effective training programme should have, at least, the following features:
a careful analysis of training needs which identifies the tasks to be performed and
the hazards associated with those tasks;
the performance standards to be achieved as a result of training.
The programme should include:

entry standards and induction programmes for learners;
learning objectives;
selection of training aids (e.g. use of graphics, videos, printed material etc.);
adequate testing;
evaluation of results in relation to their usefulness to the industry;
recognition of skills attained where applicable (e.g. accreditation).
4.2.2 Induction
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Induction programmes are essential for new employees and for those taking up new
jobs or where work situations have changed. Induction can be the first experience or
initiation for a person new to the job or a particular work environment.
Information given during an induction should include:
workplace policies and procedures;

how to identify hazards;
reporting of hazards;
reporting of accidents or incidents;
how to carry out the job in a safe and healthy manner;
information on hazardous work practices;
use, fitting, storage and maintenance of personal protective equipment;
where to obtain occupational safety and health information;
emergency evacuation procedures.
Initial awareness and familiarity with personal protective equipment should form part
of an induction programme for new employees. Particular care should be given to the
training requirements for correct selection, fitting, use, care, storage and maintenance
of personal protective equipment.
4.2.3
"On the Job" Training
Employee "on the job" training should include:
showing the employee the skill to be learned;

explaining the reasons, steps and key points;
having the person practice;
giving feedback on the practice;
correcting errors as they occur.
4.2.4
Prevention of Falls Training
Specific training in the prevention of falls should include:
safe work practices to prevent a fall;

the method to be used to carry out a specific work task. This should include
access and the attachment method;
correct selection, inspection, fitting, use, care, maintenance and storage of fall
arrest systems and devices, including safety nets;
the correct use, inspection, maintenance, care and storage of individual fall arrest
equipment, its strengths and weaknesses;
the siting of temporary fall arrest systems;
correct selection, fitting, use, care, maintenance and storage of personal protective
equipment;
correct selection, use, care and storage of tools and equipment to be used;
procedures in the event of an emergency such as rescue, accident or injury;
proper methods of working on fragile material;
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electrical safety;
maintaining record keeping procedures and systems;
hazard or accident reporting systems.
4.2.5
Further Training or Re-training
Persons may need further training where:
new methods, equipment, policies or procedures are introduced;

the type of operation or environment changes;
their particular job requirements change;
periodical refresher training is seen as necessary;
inadequate job performance is identified;
follow up is required as a result of an accident/incident.
4.2.6
Certification or Accreditation
There may be occasions when a person is required to obtain formal accreditation or

certification (e.g. crane operators, scaffolders, riggers, doggers).
Where an
accreditation or certification is required, it should be checked to ensure it is valid and
current
Employers should ensure where an appropriate accreditation or certification is
required that it is valid and current.
Employers should also ensure that people who are being trained to obtain
accreditation or certification are supervised during the training.
The possession of a certificate of competency does not provide any exemption
whatsoever from the requirement for fall protection to be provided for a person
working at heights.
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4.3
SUPERVISION
Employers should provide supervision to ensure that employees are not exposed to
hazards and that they are taking reasonable care where there is a risk of falling or
being struck by falling objects. This is particularly important where personnel are
undergoing training or are unfamiliar with the working environment.
Employers should:
ensure that those people in supervisory positions have the necessary skills,
knowledge and authority to undertake this role;
ensure that employees are adequately supervised when working in an elevated
position;
ensure that only employees who have received training in relation to the use of fall
arrest systems undertake any work at height;
ensure that adequate occupational safety and health systems are in place and
functional and that safe work practices have been adopted and are used and
monitored.
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APPENDIX A
RISK MANAGEMENT
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RISK MANAGEMENT
IDENTIFICATION OF RISKS
To assist in identifying where a person may fall, consideration should be given to:
injuries arising from falls that have occurred at the workplace or other similar
workplaces;
'near miss' incidents or accidents related to falls at the workplace or other similar
workplaces;
relevant codes of practice guidelines and guidance notes;
consultation with employees to find out what problems they may have in
performing their jobs;
consultation with safety and health representatives and safety and health
committees;
consultation with self employed persons or contractors to find out if they are
having or likely to have problems in performing their jobs;
walk through inspections of the workplace (consider checklists);
records or statistics that indicate potentially unsafe work practices;
confined space activities;
nature of the work environment.
As part of the risk management process, procedures and work practices should be
closely addressed. Safe work practices and documented procedures should be
established before work commences. These should be drawn up in a consultative
approach by all interested parties.
Factors that can cause a fall include:
moving from one surface to another;

the surface is not capable of supporting a load;
openings or holes are not identified or protected;
open edges are not protected;
levels change;
hand grip is lost;
surfaces are slippery (eg. surfaces are wet or polished or oily in the case of new
steelwork);
footwear is unsuitable;
equipment, tools, rubbish are causing obstructions in work areas;
ladders are used incorrectly;
clothing is caught;
surfaces move;
hot, or cold surfaces;
there is sudden acceleration or deceleration, such as air hoists and cranes;
lighting is unsatisfactory;
weather conditions are bad (e.g., heavy rain or wind is present);
struck by a moving or falling object;
restriction of movement caused by PPE;
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exposure to chemicals or electricity in some circumstances may increase the risk

of a fall;
fall arrest systems and devices are used incorrectly;
personnel fatigue.
Factors that may increase the likelihood of a fall include;
hot, cold, wet or dusty conditions;

personnel stress (either task related or through other causes);
unclear procedures;
inadequate training.
ASSESSING THE RISKS

Risk, in relation to any specific level of injury or other harm, means the probability of
that injury or harm occurring.
An analysis of the hazards identified in the first step should result in a list of potential
injuries or harm and the likelihood of these occurring. The potential for fatal injury
should be considered for each identified hazard
In assessing risks, consideration should be given to the state of knowledge about the
frequency of injury, the duration of exposure to injury sources and the likely severity
of the outcomes. Knowledge gained from similar workplaces or similar processes (on
the site or elsewhere) may be relevant to this risk assessment.
Matters to be considered include:
frequency of injury - how often is the hazard likely to result in an injury?

duration of exposure - how long is the employee likely to be exposed to the
hazard?
outcome - what are the consequences or potential severity of injury?
Assessing these three factors will indicate the probability or likelihood of injury or
harm occurring to workers involved in a particular work process
Risk assessment requires good judgement and awareness of the potential risks of a
work process. A person undertaking a risk assessment should have knowledge and
experience of the work process. Incomplete data or incomplete information regarding
hazards of a work process may complicate the task. Using a small group (even two
people) can be an effective method of bringing this experience to the process.
In some cases it may be necessary to break down the activity or process into a series
of parts and assess each part separately.
Risk assessment should include:
assessing the adequacy of training or knowledge required to work safely;

looking at the way the jobs are performed;
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looking at the way work is organised;

determining the size and layout of the workplace;
assessing the number and movement of all people at the workplace;
determining the type of operation to be performed;
determining the type of machinery and plant to be used;
examining procedures for an emergency (e.g. accident, fire and rescue);
looking at the storage and handling of all materials and substances.
This step should provide information on where and which employees are likely to be
at risk of incurring injury, how often this is likely to occur, and the potential severity
of that injury risk.
CONTROLLING THE RISK

The final step is to determine the control measures that need to be taken and the
ongoing review of those measures. There is a hierarchy or preferred order of control
measures ranging from the most effective to the least effective.
The control of occupational injury and risks should preferably be dealt with by design,
substitution, redesign, separation or administration. These controls generally
eliminate, reduce or minimise risk in a more reliable manner than personal protective
equipment.
Controls involve implementing measures that reduce the hazard and risk in the
workplace.
HIERARCHY OR PREFERRED ORDER OF CONTROL
Elimination
Removing the hazard or hazardous work practice from the

workplace such as positioning systems and equipment at
ground level. This is the most effective control measure.
Substitution
Substituting or replacing the hazard or hazardous work

practice with a less hazardous one.
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APPEA
Isolation
Engineering Control
Administrative Control
Isolating or separating the hazard or hazardous work

practice from people involved in the work or people in the
general work areas from the hazard. This can be done by
installing safety screens or barriers or marking off
hazardous areas.
If the hazard cannot be eliminated, substituted or isolated,
an engineering control is the next preferred measure. This
may include modifications to tools or equipment,
providing guarding to machinery or equipment, the use of
work platforms, or the installation of anchor points at the
construction phase.
This includes introducing work practices that reduce the
risk. This could include:
Personal Protective
Equipment
limiting the amount of time a person is exposed to a

particular hazard;
issuing of working safely at height permits;
rotation of personnel;
buddy system;
training;
incident and near miss reporting;
JSAs;
toolbox meetings.
This should be considered only when other control
measures are not practicable or to increase protection.
These would include body containment devices and fall
protection systems.
Control measures are not mutually exclusive. That is, there may be circumstances
where more than one control measure should be used to reduce exposure to hazards.
In some instances, a combination of control measures may be more appropriate.
Control measures should be designed:
to eliminate or reduce the risks of a hazardous work process and to minimise the
effects of injury;
to reduce the risk of exposure to a hazardous substance.
Review of control measures

Constantly reviewing control measures after introduction is important to ensure they
continue to prevent or control exposure to hazards or hazardous work practices.
Engineering controls should be regularly tested to ensure their effectiveness.
Performance testing and evaluation standards should be established.
Other protection, prevention or mitigation measures should be tested regularly in
order to ensure that they remain serviceable and retain their integrity (eg. harnesses).
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Repair and maintenance programmes should specify:
where and when servicing is required;

the extent of servicing required;
reference to relevant documentation;
the nature of the servicing required;
the frequency of servicing;
who is responsible for maintaining repair and maintenance programmes;
how defects will be corrected.
In order to keep accurate records, a recording or reporting system should be

developed, implemented and maintained.
Specific control measures for the prevention of falls

Specific control measures include:
designing and planning new facilities, structures or plant with consideration to the
prevention of falls;
ensuring that designs or plans to modify existing facilities, structures or plant
consider the prevention of falls;
looking at the way jobs can be done safely to eliminate or reduce the likelihood of
a fall;
organising and sequencing work so that the risk of a fall is not increased;
identification, collection and presentation of information and knowledge required
by contractors to enable them to work safely;
identifying the training or knowledge required to work safely if there is the risk of
a fall;
capturing the learning outcomes from incident and near miss reporting.
Control through personal protective equipment

Personal protective equipment should be used in circumstances where other methods
of control are not practicable or where there is a need to increase the level of
protection. The factors which determine the appropriateness of using personal
protective equipment include:
the nature of the work or the work process concerned;

the severity of any potential injury;
the state of knowledge about the injury related to the work or process;
information available to employers about methods of preventing injury associated
with a particular hazard or risk and why PPE is necessary;
the availability and suitability of methods to prevent, remove or mitigate causes of
injuries associated with a hazard or risk;
whether the costs of preventing, removing or mitigating that injury are prohibitive
in the circumstances;
restrictions to movement due to PPE.
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There are some situations where use of personal protective equipment may be
necessary. These include:
where it is not technically feasible to achieve adequate control of the hazard by

other measures. In these cases, the hazard should be reduced as far as practicable
by other measures and then, in addition, suitable personal protective equipment
should be used to secure adequate control;
where a new or revised risk assessment indicates that personal protective
equipment is necessary to safeguard safety and health until such time as adequate
control is achieved by other methods, for example, the use of fall arrest systems
and devices until guard railing is erected;
during routine maintenance operations. Although exposure to hazards occurs
regularly during such work, the infrequency and small number of people involved
may make other control measures impracticable.
Unless the outcome of the risk assessment establishes an alternative safe working
practice, fall risk reduction and/or protection should be provided for all persons
exposed to a fall of 2.0 metres or greater.
The provision of fall protection below 2 metres will depend on the outcome of the risk
assessment however for all work activities conducted above water, irrespective of
height, fall protection should be provided.
Note: Some of the provisions of the enabling legislation are qualified by the words
As Low As Is Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). In order to clarify the statement,
the following explanation is provided:
If something is practicable, it is capable of being done.
reasonable takes into account:
Whether it is also
the severity of an injury or harm to health that may occur;

the likelihood of that injury or harm occurring;
how much is known about the hazard and the ways of reducing, eliminating or
controlling it;
the availability, suitability and cost of safeguards.
The risk (i.e. severity and likelihood), and the risk reduction, of injury should be
assessed in the context of the overall cost and feasibility of the safeguards needed to
effect the reduction in risk.
Common practice and knowledge throughout the relevant industry are taken into
account when judging whether a safeguard is reasonably practicable. Individual
employers could not claim that certain hazards are unknown if those hazards are
widely known within the industry, and safeguards were available.
The cost of putting safeguards in place is measured against the consequences of
failing to do so. It is not a measure of whether an organisation can afford to put
the necessary safeguards in place.
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APPEA
While cost is a factor, it is not an excuse for failing to provide appropriate

safeguards, particularly where there is a risk of serious, or frequent but less severe,
injury.
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APPEA
APPENDIX B
GLOSSARY
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APPEA
ABBREVIATIONS
ALARP
As Low As Reasonably Practicable.
APPEA
Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association Ltd.
AS
Australian Standard.
AS/NZS
Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard.
DISR
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
FD
Facility Description.
FSA
Formal Safety Assessment.
GBS
Guaranteed Breaking Strain.
JSA
Job Safety Analysis.
MGC
Maximum Ground Clearance.
PIC
Person in Charge.
PPE
Personal Protective Equipment.
P(SL)A
Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act.
SMS
Safety Management System.
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
Competent person - means a person who has the ability to perform the activities
within an occupation or function to the standard expected in employment through
training, qualification or experience, or a combination thereof.
Hazard - means the potential to cause harm, injury or illness.
Risk - means the probability and consequences of occurrences of injury or illness.
Shall - indicates a mandatory requirement.
Should - indicates a recommended requirement.
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APPEA
DEFINITION OF TERMS USED IN FALL ARREST SYSTEMS

Active fall protection - is a system where an individual must take action to use
equipment either to prevent them entering a fall hazard area or to arrest their fall.
Anchorage - is the means for attaching a lanyard, lifeline or other components to a
secure point.
Anchor points - are secure points of attachment for lifelines and lanyards.
Arrest force - is the force imposed upon the worker and the anchor point the moment
the fall arrest system stops the fall.
Body containment devices - are designed to contain the body of a falling worker and
to distribute forces resulting from an arrested fall to minimise the likelihood of injury.
They consist of a full body harness (parachute type) together with associated
components such as lanyard and personal energy absorber.
Double action device - is a self-closing hook or karabiner with a keeper latch that
will automatically close and remain closed until manually opened.
Droplines - are vertical lifelines.
Energy absorber (deceleration device) - an attachment designed to reduce the
deceleration force imposed by a suddenly arrested fall. A personal energy absorber is
designed to be used in series with a fall arrest harness and lanyard.
Fall arrester - is a mechanical device that arrests a fall by locking onto a dropline and
at the same time allows freedom of movement.
Fall indicator - is a visual indicator which denotes that the fall arrest system or
device is serviceable or not serviceable.
Free fall - is any fall or part of a fall where the person suffering the fall is under the
unrestrained influence of gravity over any fall distance either vertically or on a slope
on which it is not possible to walk without the assistance of a handrail or hand line.
Individual fall arrest systems - are designed to arrest an accidental fall and consist
of some or all of the following:
Anchorage
Fall Arrester
Harness
Lanyard
Lifeline
Personal Energy Absorber
Rail System
Retractable Lifeline
Rope Grabs
Shock Absorbers - both personal and
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APPEA
industrial
Wire Grabs
Individual travel restricting systems - are designed to prevent the user from moving
into a fall hazard area and consist of the following:
Anchorage
Lanyard
Belt (Harness)
Lanyard - a line usually used to connect a fall arrest harness to an anchorage point or
static line in situations where there is risk of a free fall.
Lanyard assembly - an assembly of a lanyard and a personal energy absorber.
Locking traveller (horizontal) - is a travelling anchorage. It has a walking sprocket
device that connects the user to a static line system allowing the user to travel the
entire length of the line without having to unclip and reclip when passing the line
supports.
Locking traveller (incline) - arrests falls on surfaces up to an angle of 36 degrees.
Restraint line - the line securing workers to a point of anchorage and is used to
prevent a person from reaching a point from which they could fall.
Static line - a horizontal or substantially horizontal line to which a lanyard may be
attached and which is designed to arrest a free fall.
Total fall distance - is the total distance a person is likely to fall during both the free
and restrained parts of a fall, and including the maximum dynamic extension of all
supporting components.
Type 1 rope grab fall arresters - a fall arrest device which travels along an
anchorage line, and when loaded, locks to the line.
Type 2 fall arrest device - a fall arrest device from which a spring loaded anchorage
line pays out, and which locks when loaded and releases when the load is removed.
Type 3 fall arrest device - As for a type 2 but incorporating a retrieval winch.
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APPEA
Work positioning systems - provide a primary means of support in relative comfort

and consist of the following:
Anchorage
Ascender
Back-up device
Boatswain's chair
Page 49
Descender
Harness
Lifeline (dropline) x 2
APPEA
Page 50
APPEA
APPENDIX C
REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
Page 51
APPEA
REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1967.

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Management of Safety on Offshore Facilities)
Regulations 1996.
Code of Practice for the Prevention of Falls at Workplaces - Worksafe WA.
Draft National Code of Practice for the Prevention of Falls - National
Occupational Health and Safety Commission.
Guidelines for the Preparation and Submission of Safety Cases - Department of
Industry, Science and Resources 1995.
Draft Guidelines for Lifting Equipment - APPEA 1999.
Draft Australian/New Zealand Standard for comment DR 99040 - Industrial Fall
Arrest Systems and Devices
STANDARDS RELEVANT TO THESE GUIDELINES

Australian Standards
AS 1319
AS/NZS 1576
AS 1577
AS 1657
AS/NZS 1891.
AS/NZS 1892
AS 2317
AS 2319
AS 2359
AS 2626
AS 3569
AS 4142.3
AS/NZS 4576
AS/NZS 4488
AS 4626
Rules for the Design and Use of Safety Signs for the
Occupational Environment.
Metal Scaffolding Code.
Scaffold Planks.
Fixed Platforms, Walkways, Stairways and Ladders - Design,
Construction and Installation.
Industrial Fall Arrest Systems and Devices.
Portable Ladders.
Collared Eyebolts.
Rigging Screws and Turnbuckles.
Powered Industrial Trucks (known as the SAA Industrial
Truck Code).
Industrial Safety Belts and Harnesses - Selection, Use and
Maintenance.
Steel Wire Ropes.
Man-made Fibre Rope for Static Life Rescue Lines.
Guidelines for Scaffolding.
Industrial Rope Access Systems.
Industrial Fall Arrest Devices - Selection, Use and
Maintenance.
British/European Standards
BS 3913
BS 5845
EN 360
Specification for Industrial Safety Nets.

Permanent Anchors for Industrial Safety Belts and
Harnesses.
Personal Protective Equipment Against a Fall from Height
- Retractable Type Fall Arrestors.
Page 52

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GUIDELINES FOR

Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association Limited

GPO Box 2201

CANBERRA ACT 2600

CANBERRA ACT 2601

+61 2 6247 0960

Facsimile: +61 2 6247 0548

ACN 000 292 713

Guidelines for Height Safety

Facility Description (FD);

Safety Management System (SMS); and

Formal Safety Assessment (FSA).

GPO Box 2201

CANBERRA ACT 2600

CANBERRA ACT 2601

+61 2 6247 0960

Facsimile: +61 2 6247 0548

ACN 000 292 713

Guidelines for Height Safety

Guidelines for Height Safety

The following are acknowledged for their technical advice:

Guidelines for Height Safety

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................1

PURPOSE AND SCOPE................................................................................................................ 1

RELATIONSHIP WITH REGULATIONS ................................................................................... 1

2.0 WORKPLACE DESIGN ....................................................................................................4

RISK MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................................. 4

DESIGN AND PLANNING........................................................................................................... 5

ACCESS AND EGRESS................................................................................................................ 5

PROTECTION OF HOLES AND OPENINGS ............................................................................. 7

MODU Moonpool Areas ....................................................................................................... 7

Drill Floor V Door area........................................................................................................ 8

GRID MESH AND CHECKER PLATE FLOORING................................................................... 8

3.0 SAFE WORKING AT HEIGHT........................................................................................9

Personnel Lifting ................................................................................................................... 9

Working over Water ............................................................................................................ 11

Rescue Procedures .............................................................................................................. 13

Hot Work and Cutting/Abrasive Processes......................................................................... 14

Fall Arrest Systems and Devices......................................................................................... 15

Safety Nets ........................................................................................................................... 26

4.0 COMPETENCY AND TRAINING .........................................................................33

PROVISION OF INFORMATION .............................................................................................. 33

INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING.............................................................................................. 33

Training Programmes ......................................................................................................... 33

"On the Job" Training......................................................................................................... 34

Prevention of Falls Training ............................................................................................... 34

Further Training or Re-training ......................................................................................... 35

Certification or Accreditation ............................................................................................. 35

Guidelines for Height Safety

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

System design for working at height;

RELATIONSHIP WITH REGULATIONS

Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association Limited

GPO Box 2201

CANBERRA ACT 2600

CANBERRA ACT 2601

+61 2 6247 0960

Facsimile: +61 2 6247 0548

ACN 000 292 713

Guidelines for Height Safety

P(SL) (Management of Safety on Offshore Facilities) Regulations

The P(SL)A contains

Monitoring and Evaluation

The hazards for each facility