The Mineral Products Association (MPA) has launched a number of new resources, available to all, after identifying ‘Working at Height’ as one of the ‘Fatal 6’.
As reported in the HSE statics there were 35 deaths attributed to falls from height in 2021/22 and they continue to be the major cause of workplace related fatalities. One such incident being investigated by the HSE occurred only this week at a premises in Scunthorpe.
Whilst these resources are primarily aimed at the mineral products industry, we have no doubt that many of you (if not all) will find them useful.
Guide to Safe Working at Height – handbook
This ‘Guide to Safe Working at Height’ booklet has been produced to outline how the potential hazards associated with activities that involve working at height can be either eliminated or mitigated. It is designed for use by managers, employees, and contractors, its intent being to achieve a significant reduction in fatalities and serious injuries due to a fall from height.
All incidents involving falls from height can be avoided by applying and following the right procedures or engineering solutions.
Based on the hierarchy of control (HOC), the handbook provides ‘clear, simple and smart’ guidance for those managing Work at Height. An introduction is provided for each element of the hierarchy of control, along with examples of good practice and questions every site should be asking. The guidance should be considered when conducting a risk assessment and conducting a work at height safety review.
The full ‘Guide to Safe Working at Height handbook’ is available here.
Employee Guide for Working at Height Safely
This booklet provides advice for employees on how they can avoid danger and keep themselves and their colleagues safe by applying the hierarchy of control for all work at height activities. Whilst shorter than the above guide it is comprehensive
The ‘Working at Height Safely – Employee Guide’ is available here.
Tony Entwistle, MPA’s Health and Safety manager said: “Even those companies who may think they have already rolled out this issue might consider re-auditing or repeating the campaign focus. Experience shows that either people begin to forget or changes aren’t fully embedded.
Why not consider carrying out a company/site audit, working together with site staff to identify gaps and put together a scheme of planned improvements. Then, use the handbook, e-learning module and other resources to hold training sessions or discussions with your workforce and provide them with copies of the Employees’ guide. Even consider running a companywide campaign week.”
Well done the MPA for sharing!!
Want to know more about the ‘the fatal 6’? visit here.