Working at heights is a hazardous job, with a high chance of workers falling from a height. So, every individual working in this area must undergo the course for working at heights to ensure their safety and stay prepared for any crisis.

If you’re interested in joining a course and are curious about what you will learn, this article will share everything.

Two men working together on a sloped roof under a clear blue sky.

1. Height Hazards

Hazard recognition is the most important and fundamental area for any height worker. So, a working at heights course begins by getting trainees familiar with the common elevation risks.

The usual ones are unstable and fragile surfaces, extreme weather conditions (wind and rain), falling heavy items (tools and materials), poorly installed ladders and scaffolding, safety barrier issues, and gaps in guardrails.

Multiple examples of each are usually shown to trainees using photographs, videos, and case studies. Through interactive discussions, all trainees learn how the slightest hazards can become life-threatening with poor precautions.

2. Fall Prevention Systems

The next most important part of working at heights is fall prevention and protection systems. Trainees learn the mechanism of each system, what they are used for, which situations they suit, and how they can be used effectively.

Some common covered systems are guardrails and barriers for protection from falling from edges, correct installation of scaffolding and ladders to prevent them from being shaky or collapsing, proper usage of fall arrest systems, such as lanyards, harnesses, shock absorbers, and anchor points, and principles of working on elevated work platforms, including scissor lifts and boom lifts.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Implementation

Trainees are given hands-on instruction and actual PPE material to learn how to use it properly. Professionals teach them proper inspection of the harness for damage and defects before wearing it. Participants learn to adjust the harness and other PPE according to respective fit, comfort, and safety requirements.

Next, the course professors teach them how to connect their gear with anchor points and guidelines with the help of lanyards. Trainees learn which connectors are used for which systems. It also covers the proper storage of PPE to preserve its quality and expected lifespan.

Some professionals also demonstrate how poorly worn PPE can lead to falls using mannequins. The visuals make them more serious about their safety and pay more attention while wearing PPE.

4. Ladder and Access Equipment Usage

One of the most misused tools in professional and personal areas is ladders and other access equipment, such as scaffolds and elevated work platforms. During training, participants learn the basic dos and don’ts of using them. 

This includes picking the right ladder type for specific tasks, securing both the top and bottom of the ladder, ensuring three points of contact while using it, and never carrying heavy loads or overreaching while climbing.

5. Anchor Points and Fall Arrest Systems

Anchor points refer to the points where the lanyard is attached to the harness. The right course will teach trainees how to pick certified anchor points and use them for effective protection.

They teach how temporary and permanent anchors differ. The training also teaches how load ratings impact the final choice.

Lastly, trainees learn the concepts of fall clearance, swing hazards, and deceleration distance. This ensures they are truly protected from the fall.

6. Rescue and Emergency

Despite quality safety gears and practical knowledge, accidents are inevitable on the construction site. That’s why courses always include reliable rescue and emergency plans.

Everyone is taught the key steps in case a co-worker falls and gets suspended in a harness so they don’t have suspension trauma. They learn the primary communication skills for rescues, coordination with team members, and rescue equipment usage. This ensures everyone is well-informed to save themselves and others.

7. Foundation for Safety-First Mindset

Throughout the course, the professionals train everyone to build a safety-first mindset, perceiving it as a joint responsibility.

Thus, they understand that they must never rush or skip checks, despite how tight the schedule is, as the consequences are lost lives. Even the most socially awkward individual understands that they must speak up if they notice unsafe conditions.

Such a mindset builds a safe worksite, minimising accidents and enhancing regulatory compliance.

Trainees learn the legal structure regarding working at heights, respective regulations, employer responsibilities, and industry codes of practice.

They are made to understand that poor safety practices for working at height can cost the company and even non-compliant employees legally.

Closing Thoughts

The right working at heights training will prepare you to stay safe with practical skills and abundant knowledge. You will be able to navigate through the riskiest environments and be confident in your job. So, join a professional heights training today and thrive in your profession.