Securing Tools and Materials at Heights

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English (NZ)

The Problem

Every year, workers are injured or killed by falling tools and materials at construction sites. When unsecured objects fall from heights, even small items can cause severe injuries or fatalities. These incidents are 100% preventable when the right safety measures are followed. Today, we’ll discuss how to secure tools and materials effectively and why it’s critical to prevent these types of incidents.

Identify the Hazards

  • Improper Storage: Items left unsecured on elevated surfaces.

  • Lack of Securing Devices: Tools without lanyards or tethering systems.

  • Wind or Vibrations: Objects displaced by environmental factors or work vibrations.

  • Unintentional Movement: Workers accidentally knocking objects off ledges or scaffolds.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

Use Tool Lanyards and Tethers:

  • Attach tools to your harness or workstation using approved tool lanyards.
  • Ensure lanyards or tethers are rated for the weight of the tool.

Install Toe Boards and Screens:

  • Use toe boards on scaffolding and elevated platforms to prevent objects from sliding off.
  • Add mesh screens or guardrails where work is conducted near open edges.

Properly Store Materials:

  • Keep materials secured on stable, flat surfaces.
  • Use toolboxes, bins, or storage racks to keep items organised.
  • Avoid stacking materials near edges or on sloped surfaces.

Check the Weather:

  • Secure all loose items when working in windy conditions.
  • Avoid leaving lightweight materials unsecured during breaks or overnight.

Establish Drop Zones:

  • Set up designated no-go zones beneath elevated work areas.
  • Use signage and barriers to prevent access and warn of falling object risks.

Use PPE:

  • Ensure workers below elevated tasks wear hard hats at all times.
  • In high-risk zones, consider additional PPE such as face shields or bump caps.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

Recently, a worker on a construction site suffered a concussion after being struck by a wrench dropped from a height of 6 metres. The tool wasn’t secured with a lanyard, and no toe boards were installed. This incident could have been easily avoided with proper securing measures.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Use lanyards, tethers, and proper storage for tools and materials.

  • Inspect tool securing equipment regularly.

  • Avoid placing objects near edges or unstable surfaces.

  • Report unsecured items or unsafe conditions to your supervisor immediately.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Provide appropriate equipment such as tool lanyards, toe boards, and secure storage.

  • Train workers on best practices for securing tools and materials at height.

  • Ensure guardrails, toe boards, and edge protection are in place and inspected regularly.

  • Conduct regular site inspections to identify and correct potential hazards.

Discussion & Questions

  • “What methods do you use to secure tools and materials at height?”
  • “Have you witnessed or experienced a near-miss involving falling tools or materials?”

Encourage workers to share specific site examples and solutions.

Commitment/Action Plan

Let’s commit to securing all tools and materials at height, inspecting our workstations, and reporting hazards as soon as they’re noticed. Starting today, ensure every tool you use is properly tethered, and no materials are left unsecured.

Wrap-Up

Falling objects are 100% preventable when we all do our part. By securing tools and materials and following WorkSafe NZ guidelines, we can protect everyone on-site. Thank you for your attention and for helping to keep our workplace safe.

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Standards Overview

Under WorkSafe NZ’s guidance:

  • PCBUs must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that no object falls and injures a person (Health and Safety at Work Act 2015).
  • Regulation 24 of the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016 requires elimination or minimisation of the risk of falling objects.
  • Scaffolding and elevated platforms must include toe boards or physical barriers to prevent items from falling.

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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Last Updated:
April 28, 2025