How to Stay Safe Undertaking Elevated Work

Contents show

Engaging in work from an elevated height can be daunting for anyone inexperienced. Tips and tricks to remain safe are always welcomed, whether you are a veteran handyman or trying DIY roof maintenance for the first time.

Below is some advice for anyone attempting maintenance, construction, or renovations on remaining safe at elevated heights.

Check You Have Appropriate Workwear

For first-time handymen, it is vital to ensure you have workwear and that it is functional. Adequate protective clothing includes a hard hat, steel-capped boots, and durable cargo pants and shirts. You don’t need everything brand new, as long as it is intact and provides you protection.

Seasoned DIY enthusiasts should also take note of their own gear. Previously bought clothing can quickly tear and compromise its protective capability. It is important that everyone properly cares for their workwear.

Maintaining work apparel can be done through regular washing. Do not make the mistake of letting dirt, grime, paint, or concrete harden on clothing. It is vital not to wear work clothing outside of its specific functions to avoid stretching or damaging it.

Ensure The Safety of The Workspace

Workwear is good, but a safe workspace is even more vital in saving your skin. You need to be sure the elevated platform and your surroundings are clear of any potential hazards that can cause serious injury.

Ladders are useful; however, their applications can be limited. Aluminium scaffolds are excellent for DIY elevated work due to their mobility, ease at which work can be done, and stability. When browsing, the key criterion for an aluminium tower is that it satisfies Australian standards. For readers abroad, seek out the equivalent regulatory body.

Correct application of mobile scaffolding is important as well. Mixing and matching brands or assembling high-reaching towers without authorisation is not encouraged. If you are preparing and require a platform above four metres, a licenced scaffolder must be contacted to erect the structure. A licenced individual must also sign off on the safety of the scaffold itself.

Prepare The Correct Equipment

When undertaking any project, have a plan. A well-thought-out plan that doesn’t take unnecessary shortcuts that could endanger you or those around you. A plan includes having the correct tools and not relying on old, faulty, dangerous equipment.

Maintain The Safety of The Workspace

Maintaining your workspace can be challenging, especially for renovations where garbage and old materials can pile up.

Maintaining safety requires tidiness through regular cleaning of the work site and awareness of your surroundings. For example, many aluminium scaffolds have a weight threshold of 225kg. It is vital that you account for the weight of yourself and your tools or risk exceeding capacity and the tower’s collapse.

Everything outlined will aid you in completing your project in a timely and safe manner.