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• the nature of the risks associated with the work at the time of the information , training , and instruction , and
• the control measures implemented . The PCBU must also ensure , so far as is reasonably practicable , that the information , training , and instruction are provided in a way that is readily understandable for the person to whom it is provided .
Workers must be trained and have the appropriate skills to carry out a particular task safely .
Training should be provided to workers by a competent person .
Information , training , instruction provided to workers exposed to potential falls from working at any height should include :
• The proper use , wearing , storage and maintenance of PPE .
• The hazards and risks associated with work performed at these heights .
• How to follow health and safety procedures associated with this work , including the contents of any SWMS .
• The reasons fall protection measures have been put in place and how to use them properly .
Those supervising the work should also receive training . The amount and type of information , training and instruction required will depend on the nature of the work and the risk involved , as well as the type of fall protection measures used .
The information , training and instruction provided to workers should also include :
• Procedures for emergency and rescue .
• Procedures for reporting fall hazards and incidents .
• The correct selection , fitting , use , care , inspection , maintenance and storage of fall arrest and restraint equipment , if this equipment is to be used .
• The correct use of tools and equipment used in the work , for example using a tool belt instead of carrying tools .
• Control measures for other potential hazards , for example electrical hazards and crushing or entanglement from the use of plant like elevating work platforms ( EWPs ).
Workers exposed to a risk of a fall should also be adequately supervised by a competent person , especially if they are undergoing training or are unfamiliar with the working environment . As a PCBU , you should check that :
• Only workers who have received training and instruction in relation to the system of work are authorised to carry out the work .
• Workers use fall control measures in the correct manner . n
SAFE USE OF LADDERS
WORKERS MUST BE PROVIDED WITH INFORMATION AND TRAINING ON HOW TO USE LADDERS SAFELY . YOU SHOULD ONLY USE A LADDER IF YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED IN HOW TO INSPECT , SET UP AND USE LADDERS CORRECTLY .
SELECTING LADDERS Ladders should be selected to suit the work to be carried out . Consider hazards present , duration of the work , the physical surroundings of where the work is to be carried out and the prevailing weather conditions .
Depending on the specific task and how it is carried out , step platforms should provide an improved level of fall protection over traditional step or single ladders as they include a small working platform and partial handrail . Ladders must have a load rating of at least 120kg and be manufactured for industrial use . Domestic or homemade ladders should not be used in industrial or construction sites .
LADDER MAINTENANCE Ladders should be regularly inspected by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer ’ s recommendations . Ladders with any of the following faults should be immediately removed from service and either replaced or repaired :
• Fibreglass stiles cracked , chipped , or severely faded with fibres exposed .
• Timber stiles warped , splintered , cracked , or bruised .
• Metal stiles twisted , bent , kinked , crushed or with cracked welds .
• Rungs , steps , treads , or top plates that are missing , worn , damaged or loose .
• Tie rods missing , broken or loose .
• Ropes , braces , or brackets that are missing , broken or worn .
• Timber members that are covered with opaque paint or other treatment that could disguise faults in the timber .
• Missing , loose , bent or worn fasteners , that is rivets , bolts , and pins .
• Worn , damaged or damaged feet including non-slip material .
USING LADDERS SAFELY Before setting up a ladder , it should be inspected for visible damage or faults , for example broken rungs , stiles , and footings . Faulty or damaged ladders must be removed from service . When setting up a ladder you should check :
• The ladder is the correct height for the work to avoid over-reaching or stretching .
• Locking devices on the ladder are secure .
• The ladder is not placed so that the weight of the ladder and any person using the ladder is supported by the rungs .
Ladders used at a workplace should be set up on a solid and stable surface , and to prevent the ladder from slipping . Single and extension ladders can be prevented from slipping by :
• Ensuring the ladder has non-slip feet .
• Placing ladders at a slope of 4:1 ( the distance between the ladder base and the supporting structure should be about one metre for every four metres of working ladder height ).
• Securing ladders at the top or bottom , or if necessary , at both ends .
Stepladders should be set up in the fully opened position and may require a second person to ‘ foot ’ the ladder for added stability .
When using a ladder :
• Always maintain ‘ three points of contact ’ as follows :
– when going up or down a ladder , always have two feet and one hand , or one foot and two hands , on the ladder .
– when working from a ladder , have two feet and one other point of contact with the ladder , such as a hand or thighs leaning against the ladder .
• Use a tool belt or side pouch so that materials or tools are not carried in the hands while climbing the ladder .
• Ensure only light duty work is carried out while on the ladder , where tools can be
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