Fall Protection Requirements for Scaffold Work
The Problem
Falls from scaffolds remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. Despite clear health and safety regulations, many incidents occur due to inadequate fall protection or improper scaffold use. Today, we’ll focus on understanding the hazards of working on scaffolds 3 metres or higher and how to implement fall protection measures to prevent injuries and save lives.
Identify the Hazards
- Inadequate Fall Protection: Working without guardrails or personal fall arrest systems on scaffolds 3 metres or higher.
- Improper Access: Climbing cross-bracing or scaffold frames not designed for climbing.
- Removing Guardrails: Guardrails removed for convenience during material handling without an alternative fall protection system in place.
- Improper Use of Lifelines: Lifelines attached to unsuitable anchorage points, creating a risk of failure.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Guardrails and Fall Protection:
- Guardrails must be installed on all open edges and ends of scaffold platforms where a person could fall 3 metres or more.
- If the scaffold platform is more than 400 mm from the structure, additional fall protection (e.g., guardrails or a personal fall arrest system) must be used.
- Never remove guardrails unless an alternative fall protection system, such as a travel restraint or harness and lanyard, is in place.
Accessing Scaffolds:
- Only access scaffolds using built-in ladders, stair towers, or properly secured portable ladders.
- Never climb cross-braces or scaffold components not designed as access points.
Climbing Practices:
- Do not climb scaffold frames unless specifically designed and certified for that purpose.
- Confirm with the Competent Person that access components are approved for climbing.
Fall Protection for Suspended Scaffolds:
- Use vertical lifelines securely fastened to independent, fixed anchorage points approved by the Competent Person.
- Protect lifelines from sharp edges and wear.
- Do not attach suspension ropes and lifelines to the same anchorage point.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a site in Auckland, a worker fell from a scaffold just over 3 metres high after the guardrails were removed to move materials. No alternative fall protection was in place, and the worker lost balance, suffering serious injuries. This incident could have been avoided by using a harness and lanyard during the brief period the guardrails were removed.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect scaffolds before use to ensure guardrails are in place.
- Always use proper access points and never climb unauthorised components.
- Secure lifelines to approved anchorage points only.
- Report missing guardrails or unsafe scaffolds to the Competent Person immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Ensure scaffolds are properly equipped with guardrails and appropriate access.
- Train workers in scaffold safety and fall protection requirements.
- Provide and maintain personal fall protection systems when required.
- Carry out regular scaffold inspections and enforce safe practices.
Discussion & Questions
- “What common issues have you seen with scaffold fall protection on site?”
- “Have you come across situations where guardrails were removed? How did you respond?”
Encourage team members to share their experiences and concerns.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to ensuring fall protection is in place for every scaffold job. Starting today, inspect scaffolds before use, ensure guardrails are properly installed, and follow all fall protection procedures. Your safety depends on it.
Wrap-Up
Falls from scaffolds are preventable. By following WorkSafe NZ guidelines and using fall protection consistently, we help ensure everyone goes home safely. Thank you for your commitment to scaffold safety.
Standards Overview
- WorkSafe NZ – Good Practice Guidelines for Scaffolding in New Zealand: Requires fall protection for anyone working 3 metres or more above the ground.
- Guardrails: Must be installed and maintained on scaffold platforms to prevent falls.
- Access: Scaffolds must have proper access ladders or stair systems to avoid unsafe climbing practices.
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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