In 2022, there were 5,486 fatal injuries in the workplace in the United States. Out of these, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) reports that falls accounted for 36.4% of construction-related deaths in the same year.
The implication of this can be far-reaching. Employers often face possible legal consequences and financial losses in settlements if they are found wanting in infrastructural integrity. As a result, many establishments and industries that involve any form of working at height request a working at heights certificate as proof that the employee is competent to do said work. In some cases, the employees are responsible for providing the training.
But when is working at heights training needed? Do those who work on scaffolds and truck movers have the same level of risk? This article covers all you need to know about getting working at heights training.
Who Needs a Working at Heights Training?
Working at heights training is not needed for every job where your feet leave the ground. The OSHA guidelines outline that if you’re working at or above 4 feet in a general industry or 6 feet in construction, you’re required to have training.
That’s because once you reach those heights, the risk of falling becomes serious enough to warrant learning how to stay safe. But that does not mean you cannot ‘fall at height’ even when on the first floor.
Depending on the site, one can fall from the first floor into a hole or trench. This also qualifies as falling from height. But generally, if you’re a worker who regularly finds yourself off the ground, you may require training for your job.
Some of these professionals include roofers, window cleaners, construction workers, and even stagehands hanging lights for a big concert.
Also, if you supervise or manage workers at height, you need training as well. After all, how can you keep your team safe if you don’t know the ropes?
Why Is Training So Important?
The working at heights training does not have a unidirectional approach. Different jobs have different risks, so the training needs to be specific to your industry. Whether you are scaling skyscrapers or just working on a modest scaffold, there’s a specific training designed to keep you safe.
But in general, training teaches you how to:
- Use proper fall protection gear like harnesses, guardrails, or safety nets.
- Assess the work environment for hazards like unstable surfaces, weather conditions, or nearby machinery.
- Understand your equipment, from ladders to scaffolding to elevated platforms, so you are never caught off guard.
- Undergo rescue procedures. The training is not just about preventing falls, it’s also about knowing what to do if something goes wrong.
Conclusion
Working at heights training is not a one-time undertaking. Regulations change, technology advances, and even the most safety-conscious need a refresher now and then.
Most companies require their workers to renew their training every two years or less, depending on how dynamic their industry is. The goal is to keep your safety knowledge fresh and up-to-date.
Also Read: Risk Mitigation In Construction Projects: Expert Strategies Unveiled Â
