Height Safety in Healthcare Facilities: How to Protect Staff and Maintenance Workers Without Disrupting Care
Healthcare facilities demand the highest standards of safety, not just for patients, but for the staff and maintenance personnel who ensure buildings function smoothly every day. From rooftop HVAC units to lighting systems and signage, essential maintenance work often involves tasks at height. And while hospitals, clinics, and medical centres are focused on delivering continuous care, that responsibility must be balanced with height safety compliance.
Implementing appropriate height safety systems in healthcare environments is not just about meeting legal obligations, it’s about creating a safer, more reliable space for everyone involved.
Understanding Height-Related Risks in Healthcare Settings
Healthcare environments pose unique height safety challenges. Unlike commercial buildings or warehouses, hospitals are active 24/7. Maintenance crews may be required to access rooftops, mezzanines, or plant rooms during business hours, with patients and staff nearby. Risks may include:
- Falls from unprotected edges
- Unsafe access to service areas or rooftops
- Inadequate safety controls for contractors
- Interruption of sensitive patient services during maintenance
Whether performing routine inspections or emergency repairs, staff and contractors must be able to access elevated areas without compromising safety or disturbing critical operations.
Key Systems to Ensure Height Safety in Healthcare Facilities
Designing height safety solutions for healthcare facilities means prioritising both function and discretion. The systems must be effective, compliant with Australian Standards, and suitable for environments where operations must continue seamlessly.
Here’s what to consider:
1. Safe Access Systems
Fixed ladders, stairways, and platforms should comply with AS 1657 and be designed to minimise visual and noise disruption. Where regular access is required, internal access points with secure locking systems are ideal to reduce external interference.
2. Fall Arrest and Travel Restraint Systems
Anchor points, static lines, and harness-based fall arrest systems are essential for rooftop maintenance. These must comply with AS/NZS 1891 and be installed in positions that minimise travel across unprotected areas.
3. Guardrails and Walkways
Permanent guardrails and non-slip walkways create clearly defined, safe zones. These are particularly important near plant equipment or skylights where fall hazards may not be immediately visible.
4. Compliance Signage
Clear signage in accordance with AS 1319 must be present around all access points and work zones, indicating PPE requirements, fall risks, and access restrictions.
5. Scheduled Inspections and Recertification
All systems must be inspected at required intervals, typically every 6 to 12 months depending on the equipment. Regular recertification ensures ongoing compliance with height safety regulations.
Training and Procedures: A Critical Part of the Equation
Installing compliant systems is only part of the solution. Equally important is ensuring that all maintenance personnel, whether internal or external, are properly trained in their use.
- Induction and refresher training must be conducted to ensure users understand their responsibilities and can operate systems safely.
- Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) must be prepared, reviewed, and signed before any task at height begins.
- Access protocols should limit who can enter roof areas and ensure a lockout/tagout procedure is in place where necessary.
Maintaining Continuity of Care During Maintenance
The safety of healthcare environments relies on discretion. Wherever possible, noisy or high-impact work should be scheduled outside of patient hours or during low-traffic periods. Temporary barriers and secure access routes should be used to keep worksites isolated, minimising disruption.
Choosing systems that blend into existing architecture and limit visible infrastructure can also help maintain the calm, professional atmosphere expected in medical settings.
Why Healthcare Facilities Trust Workplace Access & Safety
With years of experience supporting hospitals and healthcare institutions across Australia, Workplace Access & Safety provides fully compliant, tailored height safety solutions. From risk assessments and equipment installation to training and recertification, our team ensures your facility remains safe, compliant, and operational, without interruption.
Get in touch today to schedule a safety inspection or compliance review. We’ll help you protect your people and your patients, every day.
