Working at height? How to stay on top of things

Working at height is an activity that inherently carries risks. Whether you are an experienced professional or new to the field, the dangers associated with working at height should never be underestimated.

The working on ladders, scaffolding, roofs or other elevated platforms presents unique challenges. A small mistake or omission can already have serious consequences, not only for the person working at height, but also for colleagues and passers-by below. Therefore, it is essential not only to have the right safety equipment use, but also to have a deep understanding and respect for security protocols and practices.

Things go wrong often enough

When working at height, the risk of accidents is significant. Numerous incidents are recorded every year in the Netherlands that are related to work at height.

Below is an overview of some estimated figures reflecting the severity and frequency of these accidents:

Note: These figures are hypothetical estimates and serve as examples. (Source: Netherlands Labour Inspectorate)

This table shows an estimated summary of annual accidents related to working at height. It is clear that although there is a slight decrease in the number of accidents, the number of serious and fatal accidentsn still considerable is.

What advice do we give on fall protection?

We would like to inform you about the crucial role of different types of fall protection equipment. These pieces of equipment are not only essential for your safety, but can even be life-saving in some cases.

Let's start with positioning systems. These systems are designed to limit your working area, allowing you to work safely within a certain zone without the risk of falling over the edge. Imagine you are working on a roof; by attaching yourself to an anchor point and setting the line to the correct length, you will prevent a fall from the roof. This is not only a matter of safety, but also peace of mind, allowing you to concentrate fully on your work.

We then fall protection. This is your lifeline in the unlikely event that you fall. Fall protection equipment, such as harnesses with shock-absorbing lines, ensures that the fall is stopped before you hit the ground and limits the forces exerted on your body during the fall stop. Think of a situation where a worker trips and falls; the fall arrest equipment kicks in and prevents a potentially fatal blow to the ground.

Especially for tree maintenance there is adapted equipment. This equipment is essential for safely navigating and working in trees, using special lines to avoid cutting hazards. An arborist working high in a tree relies on this equipment to move and work safely without risk of falling.

Rope Access is an advanced technique for working at height, often used when aerial work platforms are not an option. This method requires specialised training and is intended only for professionals. It enables workers to work safely and efficiently in hard-to-reach areas.

Finally, the fixing tools and materials is an often overlooked but essential aspect of fall protection. By securing tools to an object or your belt, you prevent them from falling and posing a risk to others below you. Imagine a hammer falling from a height; this could cause serious injuries to colleagues below you.

At SafeGood, we understand the importance of the right fall protection equipment and are happy to advise you on the best options for your specific working conditions. Your safety is our priority. Together, let's ensure a safe working environment.