When Do You Need a Working at Heights Ticket?

Safe Work Australia revealed alarming statistics on the number of deaths caused by workplace-related falls in Australia. On average, 29 people die on-site each year, with half of those fatalities resulting in falls less than three metres and 19% occurring between two and three metres.

In response to these statistics, working at heights tickets and qualifications have emerged to improve worker safety. As a business built on all aspects of worker safety, managing both on-site and off-site services, Newcastle Safety Servicing supports the emergence of improved worker safety in Australia. So, when do you need a working at heights ticket?

The Australian Safety and Compensation Council have placed a focus on workplace safety in the last decade. One of the main focuses of this corporation is working from heights regulations. Failure to comply with industry regulations and requirements can result in fines, penalties, and reputation damage. In severe negligence cases, unsafe practices may result in business closure. Newcastle Safety Servicing is the leading expert in working at heights equipment inspection and training. We’re here to help you understand when do you need a working at heights ticket and outline how long it lasts.

When Do You Need a Working at Heights Ticket?

If you work in the trade industry, you’ve likely heard of the working at heights ticket. Depending on the type of work you are likely to conduct, the working at heights ticket may or may not be a requirement before you get on site. If there is any risk that you may fall from a ladder, scaffolding, roof, a hole in the ground, or unstable surface above two metres, it’s likely the working at heights ticket will be a requirement.

What Height Is Considered Working at Height?

According to the Australian Work Health and Safety Regulation, any height where there is a risk of fall that is two to three metres is considered working at height. If you or someone on your worksite is operating at a height where there is some risk of fall, control measures should be in place to prevent injuries. To understand and sensibly implement control measures, workers can undertake the optional RIIWHS204D Work Safely at Heights program. The course will provide accurate information on managing hazards, safety harness equipment, and other fall protection equipment.

Is Working at Height Training a Legal Requirement?

Working at height training is a legal requirement for anyone who pre-empts that they will need to work at height to conduct their job at any point. Certain conditions need to be met depending on the type of job and risk factors associated with the job. Employers are responsible for ensuring all of their workers have adequate safety training and knowledge before they work on-site and may be required to undertake a course that outlines the risks of the job and prevention measures.

Construction industry workers are required to undertake their White Card training certification before they begin their job. White Card programs provide a general overview of potential worksite hazards and how to manage risk.

Now that we’ve covered whether working at height training is a legal requirement, let’s answer the following question; does working at heights expire?

Does Working at Heights Expire?

So, how long is a working-at-height ticket valid for? The Work at Heights Safely license (Unit of Competency RIIWHS204A) does not expire. Once you’ve obtained the certification, you’ve got it for life. However, we know that things we learned years ago become foggy and don’t stick in our minds forever. When considering how long is working at height valid for, students should take a refresher course every two years. The Working at Heights Association actively suggests workers take regular refresher courses to remain competent and keep up to date with changes.

Minimising the Risk of Falls

Whether your workplace requires it or not, there are several practical ways in which you can minimise the risk of falls among your workers. To reduce the severity of hazards, prevent work-related injuries, and eliminate risks when designing the project, consider the following:

1. Work on the ground wherever possible to eliminate the risk of working at height.
2. Ensure that solid construction scaffolding is in place if working at height is unavoidable.
3. Invest in fall protection equipment for your team.
4. Ensure that there are no voids or sinkholes on site.
5. Assess risks and raise concerns with workmates.

If you manage other workers, you must be up to date on the managerial Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements and regulations.

Newcastle Safety Servicing for Improved Workplace Safety

Newcastle Safety Servicing are the leading providers of safety equipment and servicing requirements in the Newcastle region. We conduct SRL fall protection inspections and are always on call to provide expert advice if you have concerns about the safety of your worksite. Don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team to book a service for your equipment or inquire about workplace safety.