APPEA HeightSafetyGuideline

8/9/2019 APPEA HeightSafetyGuideline

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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 0548INTERNET: http://www.appea.com.au Email: [email protected]

ACN 000 292 713 ISBN 0 908277 25 3

GUIDELINES FOR

HEIGHT SAFETY

October 1999


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ACN 000 292 713 ISBN 0 908277 25 3

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 thatthe 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


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APPEA Guidelines for Height Safety

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”.


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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 statutoryrequirements. 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 Atwood Oceanics.

Mark Haney Heightech Safety Systems.

Nick Webster Diamond Offshore General.

Capt. Bob Turrell Sedco Forex


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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


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4.3 SUPERVISION ............................................................................................................................ 36

APPENDIX A..............................................................................................................................37

RISK MANAGEMENT ......................................................................................................................... 37

APPENDIX B..............................................................................................................................45

GLOSSARY........................................................................................................................................... 45

APPENDIX C..............................................................................................................................51

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS ............................................................................................................... 51


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ACN 000 292 713 ISBN 0 908277 25 3

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The purpose of these guidelines is to provide the upstream petroleum industry withclear 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:

• System design for working at height;

• Safe working at height procedures;

• Competency and training.

1.2 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).


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Figure 1.1 Relationship Between the Contents of this Document, Safety Case

Guidelines, Current Legislation and Operator Safety Documents

Leadership andCommitment

Planning

Implementation

Monitoring and Evaluation

Audit and Review

FacilityHazard Register

The hazards for each facilityare described in the Hazard

Register as determined fromuse of hazard identificationprocesses.

P ( S L ) ( M a n a g e m e n t o f S a f e t y

o n O f f s h o r e F a c i l i t i e s ) R e g u l a t i o n s

APPEAGuidelines

Height SafetyOffshore

Workplace Design and

Construction

Competency and Training

Safe Working at Height

Major AccidentEvents

With the Hazard Register,Major Accident Events foreach facility form the basisof risk assessment. MAEsare established from hazard

identification and QRAprocesses.

Results of investigations intoaccidents and incidents canbe used to improve safety in

this area

Hazard identificationRisk Assessment Studies

Control measures

Temporary Refuge

Fire Risk Analysis

Evacuation, escape,rescue

Emergency safety training

Adequacy of escaperoutes

Work permit systems

ESD Systems

Fire protection systems

Industry

Incidents

DISRSafety CaseGuidelines

Facility Description

Safety ManagementSystem

Formal SafetyAssessment

General SafetyGuidelines

P(SL)A

Schedule ofRequirements

The P(SL)A containsspecific requirements forpetroleum operations

Guidelines for Height Safety Offshore


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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

Upstream

Industry

Guidelines

General Guidelines

Codes of Practice

and Standards

Company Standards


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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 2.0metres 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 0degrees to 15 degrees from horizontal;


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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 withthe 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 thesafety 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 meansof 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 over-

exertion.

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 afall 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 individual’s 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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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 isdue 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. Base of ladder positioned

too Base about 1 out from wall to far from wall. Sudden

slipping4 vertical height. 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 stepping-

off 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 worker’s 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 onlyshall 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 inaccordance 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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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 arehaving 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 awork 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 theongoing 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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• Isolation 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.

• Engineering Control 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.

• Administrative Control This includes introducing work practices that reduce the

risk. This could include:

• 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.

• Personal Protective

Equipment

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. Whether it is also

reasonable takes into account:

• 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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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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APPENDIX B

GLOSSARY


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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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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 dist