Assessing Structural Components and Identifying Weaknesses
Every year, countless accidents occur while working at height, many of which could have been prevented with proper risk assessment. Did you know? Nearly 40% of workplace fatalities in construction are fall-related. This stark statistic underscores the importance of ensuring structural safety. The most critical aspect of working at height is the ability to assess risks realistically. Not all hazards can be controlled, but most can be managed with the right actions and sound judgment.
While technicians are trained to handle work-at-height tasks, the true challenge lies in continuously evaluating the specific conditions of each task. Understanding the environment, the structure, and one’s abilities is key to making safe decisions.
When inspecting a structure, technicians must look for specific signs of wear and damage. This includes checking for:
• Cracks or fractures in load-bearing parts.
• Corrosion in metal components.
• Loose or bent structural members that could impact stability.
Objects or debris that could become falling hazards must be removed. Ensuring the structure is upright and properly aligned is another essential part of this inspection.
Consistent Safety Checks
To maintain structural safety, routine inspections are necessary. These inspections fall into three categories:
Initial Inspections: These are conducted before the first use to ensure all components meet safety standards.
Frequent Inspections: Performed regularly to identify any immediate issues or damages.
Periodic Inspections: Carried out by a qualified inspector, with detailed reports, kept on file for at least two years. Attention should be paid to key elements such as fasteners, bearings, and connections, ensuring they are in good condition and properly maintained.
Imagine a technician climbing a transmission tower. If the fasteners and anchors haven’t been inspected for corrosion or looseness, the risk of failure multiplies. By adhering to periodic and frequent inspections, technicians ensure that such risks are mitigated, preventing potential tragedies.
Ensuring Structural Integrity
Before climbing, technicians must check the condition of all climbing aids, such as anchors and ladders. These facilities should be inspected for:
• Signs of corrosion or deformation.
• Valid certifications confirming their safety.
• Environmental factors like weather conditions play a significant role in safety. High winds, rain, or lightning can greatly increase the risk of accidents. Work should be postponed or adjusted in hazardous weather conditions to ensure safety.
Addressing Invisible Risks
While visible hazards are easier to identify, invisible risks like electrical or biological dangers require equal attention. For example:
Maintain proper clearance from energized equipment to prevent accidents.
Be alert to biological hazards, such as wildlife, which can pose unexpected distractions or dangers during climbing activities.
Judging Risks and Making Informed Decisions
Planning for safety is just as important as executing tasks at height. Organizations and technicians must adopt a proactive approach to mitigate risks and ensure that safety remains a priority.
The guidance provided in this bulletin is designed to assist, but it is up to each technician to apply these safety measures at the right time. As the American Mountain Guides Association advises, “Use the right technique at the right time.”
Safety First, Always
Safety is an ongoing commitment and not a one-time checklist. For those responsible for work-at-height operations, now is the time to assess your procedures.
Are your inspections thorough? Are your technicians adequately trained?
Partner with us to receive expert guidance, training, and support in ensuring that your operations meet the highest safety standards. Together, we can build safer work environments and prevent unnecessary accidents. Check out our bulletins and training on the link https://gravitytraining.co.za/