Working at heights risk assessment template

This risk assessment is designed to assist workplaces in managing fall hazards in the workplace. This
includes activities where people are working:
 off the ground (e.g. up ladders, on work platforms, or on roofs);
 on the ground close to deep holes (e.g. excavations) edges or ledges (e.g. retaining walls);
 openings through which people could fall (e.g. skylight); or
 in areas where objects may fall from higher levels and cause injury.

Will work require staff to be on, or work on roofs? Yes No

If yes: being on, or working on roofs, is prohibited in all state schools. Use a contractor instead.
Will work be undertaken over two metres above the ground? Yes No
If yes: complete a safe work method statement (SWMS) instead of this risk assessment
Will work be undertaken 1.5 metres or more below a surface? Yes No
If yes: complete a safe work method statement (SWMS) instead of this risk assessment

For all other work at heights activities, continue using this risk assessment.

Use this template to:

 identify hazards and their associated risks
 assess their significance
 identify appropriate control measures in line with the five level hierarchy of control
 document and approve the activity prior to starting
 provide a summary of control measures/steps to be implemented to reduce risks associated with
the activity.

Person(s) undertaking the activity:

Activity description:

Start Date: Time: Finish Date:

Time:
Submitted by: Date:
Indicate the names of those who were involved in the preparation of this risk assessment:

Training requirements:

Supporting documentation is attached (e.g. Work Area Access Permit (WAAP) or BEMIR approval for contractors,
SOP, Chemical risk assessment, Safe work method statement).
Details:

Step 1: Identify the hazards associated with your task

Identifying the hazards associated with your task is a good starting point for risk management planning.
The risk of an injury occurring will vary according to the specific hazards associated with the different
elements of your task. In order to identify foreseeable hazards and their associated risk, consider these
questions in relation to the factors below:
 What is the distance of a potential fall?
 What is the severity of a possible injury?
 What task is to be done at height?
 How likely is it that a fall could occur?

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  The environment, poor conditions and slippery surfaces (wind, rain, exposure)
 What is the expertise of those involved (competency, medical conditions etc.)?
 What is the duration of the activity?
 Where will the activity take place (set-up surfaces, proximity to doors, overhead electrical cables
etc.)?
 What equipment will be used (including erection and dismantling)?
 Are there any other hazards associated with the task? e.g. environmental, manual handling,
pedestrians, falling objects

Surface
Surface type Stability/evenness Slope
Traction/grip/slipperiness Load bearing/strength Work area
Safe movement Fragile surfaces Access/egress
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:
Facilities/built environment
Location Proximity Driveways/pathways Indoors
Buildings and
Gardens/landscaping Retaining walls
fixtures Roofs/guttering
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:
Machinery/plant/equipment (refer to a completed SOP or safe work method statement)
Machinery (fixed/
Maintenance Safe operation Ladders
mobile/portable)
Suitability Hand tools Trestles/Scaffold Vehicles/trailers
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:
Manual tasks
Heights Balance Restricted space Fatigue
Over reach Repetition Heavy objects Vibration
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:
Environment
Sun exposure/glare Wind Water (rain/dew/frost/fog)
Temperature (hot/cold) Electrical storm Work in isolation
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:
Energy systems
Electricity (mains and
LPG gas Gas/pressurised containers
solar)
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:

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 People

Falling objects Noise Contractors

Competency/training
Physically
Injury Vehicle traffic Pedestrian traffic
capable
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:
Critical incident
Rescue from fall Falling object Disruption to daily operations
Other/detail:
Hazard controls:
Other hazards (e.g. chemical, biological)
Details:
Hazard controls:

Step 2: Assessing the inherent risk for fall from heights

Consider the nature of the activity against the indicators below to assess the inherent risk level. Risk levels
may be considered medium, high or extreme – any activity where there is potential for fall from heights
cannot be considered low risk. Once the risk level has been determined, follow the actions and approval
required for that risk level.
Overall inherent risk level and indicators Action required/approval
Medium If a fall were to occur, there would likely be minor  Document controls
injury requiring no more than first aid e.g. recommended
 Working at a level where a fall would likely and/or complete a
cause a minor injury. risk assessment. No
 Doing a relatively easy task for a short period formal approval
of time from a stable base and secure position. required to
 A landing surface that is free from dangerous undertake the
objects. activity.
 Performing task from ground using long  Use equipment
handled device. designed for the
 Use of a ladder for a short duration for access task.
purposes that is secured from moving and on
stable ground.
High If a fall were to occur, it is likely a serious injury  A documented risk
requiring medical attention would result e.g. assessment is
 Working at a height or accessing an area required.
where a fall would likely cause a serious injury.  Principal or
 Use of a ladder for light duties that is secured delegated
from moving and on stable ground and supervisor approval
following SOP for ladders. is required prior to
 Use of elevating work platforms (e.g. cherry conducting this
picker), mobile scaffolds, step platforms, etc. activity.
 Using an elevated electronic signboard.  Use equipment
 Areas with difficult access. designed for the
 Poor housekeeping, wastes, debris (e.g. task.
leaves), garden beds or stored or stacked
materials where they interfere with access to
work

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 Extreme If a fall were to occur, it is likely be a serious Seriously consider
injury requiring hospitalisation, or even death alternatives to undertaking
would result e.g. the activity:
 Activities where there is a risk of falling two  Does the task need
metres or more (measured from the person’s to be done?
feet to the ground below).  Is there another way
 Working near an unprotected open edge (e.g. to do the task that
close proximity to retaining walls; lift wells, removes the
loading docks). extreme level of
 Activities where a fall would likely result in risk?
permanent impairment or death.  A documented risk
 Using equipment on uneven/unstable ground assessment is
or working on a sloping or slippery surface required
where it is difficult to maintain balance (e.g. on  Principal approval is
glazed tiles). required prior to
 Performing work from a ladder e.g. clean conducting this
gutters, minor repairs, painting, cleaning. activity.
 Doing awkward or difficult work at height.  Use equipment
 Working at height frequently or for extended designed for the
periods of time. task.
 Others in the vicinity that may be impacted by
the activity (e.g. hit by falling objects).
 Poor weather conditions.
 Using equipment for purpose for which it is not
designed (e.g. standing on a desk or chair to
access a high shelf).
 Working on an elevated fragile surface (e.g.
asbestos roofing, near skylights).

Step 3: Suggested control measures for managing fall hazards

At all times, regardless of the level of risk, we are required to do what is reasonably practicable to eliminate
or minimise the risk of any hazard with the potential to cause harm. Control measures are the things we do
to eliminate or lower the level of risk. Listed below are recommended control measures that follow the five
level hierarchy of controls for managing fall hazards. Controls are to be considered and used in this order,
starting at level 1. Add details of the controls you intend to implement. You may use more than one level of
control. Remember to include control measures for all the hazards you have identified

Detail how the controls will be

Recommended control measures
implemented.
Consider options in the following order:
Can control measures be put in place to eliminate
the risk of falling?
Does not have to be performed at all?
Eliminate
Level 1

the risk of a fall

Can be performed less frequently in the

future?
Can be performed at ground level or on a solid
platform free from the risk of a fall?
Prefabricating/installing parts at ground level.
Lowering lighting to replace fittings
If level 1 controls are not reasonably practicable or do not fully manage the risk, then consider level 2
controls.

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 Detail how the controls will be
Recommended control measures
implemented.
Consider options in the following order:
Can measures be put in place to isolate the risk
of falling?
prevention device
Use a passive fall

Employ specialized contractor to install guard

rails or edge protection that provides permanent
Level 2

passive fall protection.

Use an elevated work platform or similar if
ground conditions permit. Person in work platform
must wear an anchored harness.
Person is provided with appropriate training,
instruction and supervision to use EWP (or
similar).
If level 1 – 2 controls are not reasonably practicable or do not fully manage the risk, then consider
level 3 controls. Roof work is not permitted for DoE staff. Schools should use contractors if level 3
controls are required.
Can measures be put in place to minimise the
consequence of a fall?
Use rails or a catch platform.
Employ a specialized contractor to access
positioning system

roofs and complete work using a travel restraint

system*.
Use a work
Level 3

This control option demands high levels of

competency and supervision and carefully
selected, maintained and tested equipment.
Users require ongoing training and administrative
procedures need to be developed and regularly
reviewed.
Consider the completion of other tasks while
contractor is present e.g. installation of good
quality gutter guard, gutter/ roof maintenance.
If level 1 – 3 controls are not reasonably practicable or do not fully manage the risk, then consider
level 4 controls. Roof work is not permitted for DoE staff. Schools should use contractors if level 4
controls are required.
Can measures be put in place to minimise the
height hazard?
Use a fall arrest

Employ a specialized contractor to access

system
Level 4

roofs using an individual fall arrest system^.

^This option must also include at least one other
person that is qualified to perform a rescue in
case of a fall. Self-rescue is not an option as
serious or fatal injuries from suspension trauma
are a possible outcome.
If level 1 - 4 controls are not reasonably practicable or do not fully manage the risk, then consider
level 5 controls.

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 Detail how the controls will be
Recommended control measures
implemented.
Consider options in the following order:
Can measures be put in place to minimise the
consequence of a fall through administrative
controls?
Use a platform ladder or trestle.
Use a step platform ladder which provides a
stable work surface that is appropriate for the
Use a administrative control

area.
Ladders must only be used if higher level
controls are not reasonably practicable.
Use ladders in accordance with the Ladder
Level 5

safety safe operating procedure.

Extension ladders, single ladders or step
ladders are not recommended to perform work at
height that is difficult or awkward, or for
performing work at height for extended periods of
time.
Provide training and instruction to those
working on ladders
Secure ladder
In addition to higher level controls, create a ‘no
go’ zone around the area or perform task out of
core hours.

Step 4: Approval for activity

Approval
Fall control selection: A level 1 ; 2 ; 3 ; 4 ; or 5 control measure has been
selected for this activity.
Reason why this control measure was selected (details):

Approved as submitted
Any relevant documents attached are approved. Note: an SWMS is mandatory for work
over two metres above the ground or 1.5 metres or more below a surface.
A safe work method statement is not required for this task
An approved safe work method statement has been submitted as part of this
assessment.
Approved with the following condition(s):

Not approved for the following reason(s):

Approved by: Designation:

Signed: Date:
Once approved, details should be entered on MyHR WHS System. Reference No.

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Step 5: Implementing, monitoring and reviewing controls
Once you have completed your risk assessment:
 A record of the controls (e.g. risk assessment) is to be kept.
 Brief each team member on this risk assessment before work begins (this includes line managers,
co-workers and or contractors).
 The controls identified in the risk assessment must be implemented and adhered to. Ensure each
person knows that work is to stop immediately if there is a problem with any controls or they are
found to be inadequate.
 Observe the work underway. If controls are not adequate, stop the work, review the risk
assessment, adjust as required and re-brief the team before recommencing work.

Monitor and review (Complete during and/or after the activity) Yes No
Are the control measures still effective?
Have there been any changes?
Are further actions required?
Details:

Reviewed by:
Review Date:
Designation:
Signature:

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Fall from heights pre-start checklist
Complete this checklist before you start your activity. These are administrative processes that often form an
important part of the overall safety of your activity. For any items checked “No”, provide further information
on the additional or alternative controls to be implemented. Add further items that are relevant to your work.

Before work commences Yes No N/A

Person has received relevant information, instruction, training to competently
perform the task
Person is familiar with:
 This Risk Assessment; and/or
 Safe Work Method Statement; and/or
 Plant and Equipment SOPs/manufacturer instructions
Appropriate ground surface for equipment being used
Plant and/or equipment is fully functional and meets relevant standards-
prestart and post activity logbook checks are completed where required.
All equipment is inspected, maintained and tested according to relevant
standards
All equipment and facilities comply with relevant safety standards
Adequate space for the type of equipment being used:
 Ensure that access to equipment is restricted.
 Ensure that there is a sufficient quantity of equipment available to
meet the needs of the workplace.
Others in the workplace are aware the task is being undertaken. Do NOT
work in isolation.
Weather conditions are appropriate for the task or equipment being used
immediately prior to commencement
First aid resources (including trained staff) suitable for activity are readily
available
Suitable clothing, footwear and personal protective equipment will be used
Others will not be impacted by the equipment or task (falling items, noise,
fumes etc.)
The activity should be conducted to minimize the impact on others e.g. perform after hours when there is
no human traffic or obstructions, barricade the area or made a “No Go” zone;, e.g. performed after hours or
during break time, area barricaded.
Communication system: (e.g. how can persons working at height
communicate during an emergency)
mobile phone telephone line at location walkie talkies
adult messenger
A method to monitor the activity is in place
Appropriate signage has been posted.
Further information:

Further information
 Workplace health and safety regulation 2011 (Qld)
 Managing the risk of falls at workplaces code of practice 2018
 Working at heights (Under ‘Hazards and risks’ on the Creating healthier workplaces website)
 Ladder safety – safe operating procedures

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