Does your workplace have emergency anchor points?
- Apr 18, 2024
- 2 min read
AU:
As a PCBU, you must ensure the workplace layout allows workers to safely enter and exit a work area and have enough space to safely carry out work there, so far as is reasonably practicable. For industrial rope access work, this includes ensuring workers can connect and disconnect from the industrial rope access system without risk of falling, so far as is reasonably practicable. Generally, permanent or temporary anchor points should be installed in a work area where an exclusion zone can be established and where, either:
· the edges are protected by barriers or guard rails to prevent workers from falling, or
· an anchor point is accessible before a worker is within 3 metres of an unguarded edge.
The layout of the system should be designed by a competent person who is familiar with the safe use of the system. They should consider the type of work to be carried out and where anchor points will be needed to control risks. The foreseeable directions of loading and anticipated potential loads should be established and taken into account when planning the anchor layout.
When anchor devices are installed, it is essential they are spaced apart correctly to prevent compromising the strength of the supporting structure. In rock or concrete, the minimum distance between anchors is usually considered to be the depth of the installed anchor, including any structural anchor. In masonry, the anchor devices should not be installed in the same or adjacent masonry units. Information on the minimum distances between anchors should be provided by the manufacturer or supplier of the anchor device. If this is not available, you must carry out, or arrange the carrying out of, any testing needed to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the anchor devices are installed without risks to the health and safety of any person.
Installing additional anchors may be necessary for emergency rescues.
The anchors should be installed so they can only be loaded in the directions intended by the designer. If this is not practical, the area near the anchors should be clearly marked to show the limitations of loading.
Was this information helpful?
Yes
No
Kommentare