Fall Protection and Guardrails for Scaffolds
The Problem
Falls from scaffolds are a leading cause of serious harm and fatalities in construction. Whether it’s missing guardrails, incorrect use of fall arrest systems, or unsafe anchor points, these hazards are preventable. WorkSafe New Zealand has specific requirements for fall protection while working at height. Today, we’ll address the dangers of scaffold work and the critical safety systems needed to prevent falls.
Identify the Hazards
- Missing or incorrectly installed guardrails.
- Misuse or absence of personal fall arrest systems (PFAS).
- Unsafe anchorage points for lifelines.
- High winds or poor weather conditions.
- Relying on scaffold components as anchor points.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Know When Fall Protection is Required:
Scaffolds 2 metres or higher require fall protection under WorkSafe NZ’s good practice guidelines. Fall protection options include:
- Guardrails on all open sides and ends.
- A fall arrest system when guardrails are not practicable.
Specific Scaffold Types:
- Suspended Scaffolds: Use both guardrails and a fall arrest system.
- Boatswain’s Chairs, Needle Beam, or Rope Descent Systems: Require fall arrest systems.
- Self-Contained Adjustable Scaffolds:
- Frame-supported: Guardrails are required.
- Rope-supported: Both guardrails and fall arrest systems are required.
- Frame-supported: Guardrails are required.
Guardrail System Requirements:
- Placement: Must be installed on all open sides and ends.
- Height:
- Top rail: 900–1100 mm above the platform.
- Mid rail: Positioned halfway between platform and top rail.
- Top rail: 900–1100 mm above the platform.
- Toe boards must be fitted where there is a risk of tools or materials falling.
Lifelines and Anchorage Points:
- Vertical Lifelines:
- Must be anchored to a suitable, independent structure.
- Must never be attached to scaffold components, services, or temporary structures.
- Must be anchored to a suitable, independent structure.
- Horizontal Lifelines:
- May be fixed to scaffolding only if designed and certified by a Chartered Professional Engineer.
- May be fixed to scaffolding only if designed and certified by a Chartered Professional Engineer.
Common Hazards to Watch For
- Damaged or missing guardrails.
- Incorrect use of PFAS.
- Improper anchorage points.
- Unsafe weather conditions when working at height.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker was installing cladding on a suspended scaffold 3 metres above ground. One guardrail was missing, and they assumed the fall arrest system would be sufficient. They leaned too far, lost their balance, and fell—suffering a serious leg injury. This incident could have been avoided with both proper guardrails and an independent fall arrest system.
Employee Responsibilities
- nspect scaffolds and fall protection gear before every use.
- Ensure all guardrails and PFAS are installed correctly.
- Use only approved, independently anchored lifelines.
- Report unsafe scaffolds or fall protection systems to the supervisor or Competent Person immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide compliant scaffolds and fall protection systems.
- Ensure workers are trained in the correct use of guardrails and PFAS.
- Assign a Competent Person to inspect and supervise scaffold safety.
- Ensure that weather conditions are considered before working at height.
Discussion & Questions
- Have you seen scaffolds with missing guardrails or fall protection systems?
- How do you verify that your fall protection setup is secure?
- Do you feel confident identifying a safe anchorage point?
Encourage open discussion and suggestions from the team.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting every scaffold and fall protection system before starting work. If you notice a missing guardrail or unsafe anchor, stop and report it. Fall protection saves lives—it only works if used correctly.
Wrap-Up
Scaffold safety depends on proper fall protection. Whether it’s a guardrail or a fall arrest system, the key is to ensure it’s in place, fit for purpose, and used correctly. Thank you for your attention—let’s continue to prioritise safety on-site.
Standards Overview
Scaffold safety depends on proper fall protection. Whether it’s a guardrail or a fall arrest system, the key is to ensure it’s in place, fit for purpose, and used correctly. Thank you for your attention—let’s continue to prioritise safety on-site.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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