What PPE Do You Need to Work Safely at Height?
Safety is important in any workplace, but especially when working at height. There are many different jobs and industries that require working at height, including building and construction, roofing services, painting and decorating and window cleaning.
The right personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential to protect any employees working at height and to ensure the job is completed safely and efficiently. If you’re completing a job at height or want to know more about your PPE options, see below for a range of systems to enable safe work at height.
Work restraint systems
These systems prevent workers from accessing an area where a fall might occur. They feature a belt or harness, a lanyard of limited length and a connector hook that can be anchored somewhere secure. Restraint systems are easy to use and protect workers from reaching hazardous areas like the edge of a roof.
Fall arrest systems
Fall arrest equipment helps to protect the worker if a fall should occur and they’re often used as a backup alongside additional PPE and equipment like guard rails and nets. Fall arrest systems use a full body harness and an energy-absorbing lanyard attached via a hook to an anchorage point. If a worker does slip or fall, the fall arrest system ensures the fall is stopped before they hit a surface.
Horizontal lifelines
These systems use a rope made from synthetic fibre or wire which is harnessed to a steel cable track at multiple anchor points. Horizontal lifelines can be used for almost all types of roofs and structures and employees can move about freely and safely while connected to the cable track.
The continuous track means that workers don’t have to detach from the line and these systems are suitable for jobs where a barely visible fall protection solution is required.
Suitable clothing
Employees should avoid wearing anything too loose when working at height, to prevent snagging. An all in one coverall can ensure any loose clothing is enclosed, plus a high-vis vest or jacket for added safety. Other standard PPE includes a helmet, eye protection, non-slip footwear and protective gloves.
If you’re looking for the highest quality height safety systems, get in touch with the experts at A1 Height Safety. We specialise in the installation of height safety systems across the UK and have all the personal protective equipment you need, including horizontal safety systems and flat roof safety lines. We can provide safety systems to suit every type of workplace, so give us a call today or contact us online to discuss your requirements.
