The Most Common Height Safety Hazards and How to Avoid Them
Working at heights is one of the most dangerous activities in the Australian workplace. Despite strict regulations and standards, falls from height remain a leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities.
Recognising the most common height safety hazards, and knowing how to mitigate them, is essential for building safer worksites, maintaining compliance, and protecting workers.
1. Unprotected Edges
The Hazard:
Open edges on rooftops, mezzanines, walkways, and platforms create a major fall risk. Even experienced workers are vulnerable, especially in poor weather or low visibility.
How to Avoid It:
- Install compliant guardrails and edge protection in accordance with AS/NZS 1657.
- Use designated access points and ensure walkways are clearly marked and unobstructed.
- Restrict access to hazardous areas without adequate edge protection.
2. Fragile Roof Surfaces
The Hazard:
Skylights, fibre cement sheeting, and other fragile surfaces may not support the weight of a worker, leading to unexpected falls.
How to Avoid It:
- Identify and mark fragile areas with signage and restricted access zones.
- Install physical barriers or mesh covers over skylights and fragile materials.
- Provide safe work platforms or walkways designed to bypass fragile areas.
3. Inadequate Access Systems
The Hazard:
Improperly designed or non-compliant access systems, including ladders, stairways, and hatches, increase fall risks during transitions to and from work areas.
How to Avoid It:
- Install access systems that meet AS/NZS 1657 standards.
- Ensure ladders and stairways have secure handholds, anti-slip surfaces, and appropriate angles.
- Regularly inspect and maintain all access points to prevent deterioration.
4. Lack of Fall Arrest or Restraint Systems
The Hazard:
Where guardrails or walkways are not feasible, failure to provide suitable fall arrest or restraint systems exposes workers to serious injury or death.
How to Avoid It:
- Install certified anchor points and static lines tested to AS/NZS 1891 standards.
- Equip workers with appropriate harnesses, lanyards, and fall arrest devices.
- Train workers in correct use, inspection, and maintenance of fall protection equipment.
5. Poor Housekeeping and Environmental Hazards
The Hazard:
Debris, tools, cables, and slippery surfaces increase trip and slip hazards, particularly dangerous when working at height.
How to Avoid It:
- Implement strict housekeeping protocols to keep work areas clear.
- Use non-slip coatings or mats on walkways and access points.
- Adjust work practices based on weather conditions (e.g., avoid working on wet or windy days if possible).
6. Inadequate Worker Training
The Hazard:
Even the best equipment cannot protect workers who are not properly trained. Lack of training leads to misuse of safety systems and increased accident risks.
How to Avoid It:
- Provide comprehensive training in working at heights, fall arrest systems, and rescue procedures.
- Conduct refresher courses regularly to maintain competency.
- Train workers to identify and report height safety hazards proactively.
Why Addressing These Hazards Matters
Failure to manage height safety hazards exposes businesses to significant risks, including:
- Worker injuries and fatalities
- WHS regulatory fines and legal penalties
- Increased insurance premiums
- Operational downtime and reputational damage
Proactively identifying and mitigating common height hazards ensures safer work environments and demonstrates compliance with Australian WHS obligations.
Final Thoughts
Height safety hazards are entirely manageable with the right systems, equipment, and training in place.
By addressing unprotected edges, fragile surfaces, inadequate access, and ensuring correct worker practices, businesses can create workplaces where employees are protected, not exposed, when working at heights.
