Working at heights
Medicals for working at heights
There are obvious risks of working in an elevated workspace, hence the need for working at heights medicals.
A worker falling from heights on a work site can result in injury or death. You might be surprised to learn that even falling 1 metre can cause serious harm. Common injuries resulting from falling include:
· Fractures
· Spinal injury
· Concussion
· Brain damage
Falls can happen anywhere
But some industries are particularly risky and require working at heights medicals. These include the construction industry and related fields, for example:
- Building
- Painting
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Transport
Luckily there are measures that can be put in place to prevent the worst from happening. One safety measure is for workers to be cleared by working at heights medicals. Here are some other tips for safely working at heights…
Putting fall prevention systems in place
Australian standards require certain safety systems to be in place to protect workers. Fall prevention systems should always be in place for work that occurs at heights. Some physical fall prevention systems include:
- Guard rails
- Barriers
- Mesh
- Scaffolding
- Harnesses
- Platforms
Wherever possible workers should do parts of the job on the ground. When it comes to roofing work, some roof coverings can be prefabricated on the ground. Painters and other trades can also avoid or minimise their time at heights. For example, extension handles for paint rollers and other tools can get the job done from the ground. Working at heights medicals are essential for working safely. Remember that prevention is always best.
Preparing for working at heights
It’s crucial to assess the risk of a scenario before climbing and carrying out work at heights. A risk assessment doesn’t need to be time-consuming It can be as simple as asking a few key questions before commencing work. Ensuring everything is safe and clear of hazards can prevent serious injury or death. Some questions to ask include: Is the person qualified, trained, experienced, old or young? Has the worker done their working at heights medicals? Are openings and penetrations fully covered? Is it safe to be working in the weather, such as strong wind, rain or heat?All team members should also know the emergency procedure if there is an incident. This allows medical assistance to arrive on the scene as soon as possible.
Tips for working on a roof
A lot of roofs have a pitch, which makes it a dangerous structure to work on. Roof workers should have practical clothing and boots with non-slip tread. The right ladder setup is critical to safety. A worker should never just haphazardly start climbing up a ladder. A stable surface should support the ladder in multiple spots. Once working on a roof it’s important that the scene is safe to walk around. Roof workers shouldn’t overload themselves with tools and materials onto the roof. A good rule of thumb is about 15 kg or less. Physical fitness is another requirement for roof workers… which includes working at heights medicals. These are just some of the tips to keep in mind for roof workers
Do your clients need working at heights medicals?
Anybody who works at heights needs to have working at heights medicals. Whether the location is a roof, building site or tower, workers need to be as safe as possible. Working at heights medicals determine whether any medical conditions will affect the employee. The job applicant will need to fill out health questionnaire. They’ll also do physical exams including the following:
- Grip strength testing
- General strength
- Aerobic fitness
- Ladder climb
- Balance
- ECG heart test (for workers over 45 years old)
- Eye exam (if exposed to radiofrequency fields)
Do your clients need working at heights medicals? Work Safe Occupational Medicine is a one stop occupational health service for employers. The director, Dr Tersia Erasmus services Browns Plains in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Dr Tersia Erasmus has over 20 years experience in healthcare.
Book an Appointment
Work Safe Occupational Medicine is a one stop occupational health service for employers. Having over 20 years experience in healthcare, your in the right hands with us. For flexible appointments, clear communication and quick turnaround time, contact us today and secure a time which works best for you.