Working at Heights Safely
An employer must train the worker in the safe use of the fall protection system before assigning any tasks at heights. The employer must complete this training before the worker begins working at heights.
It is important that all the workers understand and identify the possible fall hazards, the effect of a fall on the human body, emergency response procedures and so on. Identifying potential hazards and working safely to eliminate or control them is the key to success.
If a worker refuses to use the appropriate PPE, the employer should step in and remind them that they cannot work without it.
Reminders:
Validity period: Working at heights training is valid for 3 years. After this time, it is necessary to complete a refresher program to keep the training valid for another 3 years.
Keep the training records: Keep a copy of the worker’s proof of completion. This record must include: worker’s name, approved training provider’s name, name of the approved training program and date on which the training was successfully completed.
According to the applicable laws, the training must be completed by an approved training provider, which can be found here: Training for working at heights | ontario.ca
Fall protection plans are extremely important and should be reviewed regularly, including, but not limited to:
- After relevant workplace changes
- After each fall or near-miss incident
Remember: There is no such thing as having a general fall protection plan; it should be specific to each site where workers are working at heights.
Working at Hights Safely
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