Working at height
Safety first
In many work activities in various sectors, such as construction, logistics and industry, working at height is unavoidable. This can range from working on a ladder to working from aerial work platforms or working on scaffolding tens of metres high.
Working at height carries risks, such as fall hazards, making it essential to take the necessary precautions. On this page, we discuss the main aspects of working at height and how you can protect yourself from the potential dangers.
Risks of working at height
There are several safety measures that can be taken when working at height. One of the most common safety measures is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as harnesses, fall arrest devices and safety helmets. It is important to choose PPE that complies with European standards.
Besides PPE, collective safety measures can also be taken, such as installing railings, guardrails and safety nets. These measures are designed to prevent workers from being injured in the event of a fall.
Training and instruction
Besides taking safety measures, it is also important to properly train and instruct workers on how to work safely at height. Workers should know how to use safety measures and how to act in case of an emergency. It is also important to organise regular safety training to make employees aware of the risks of working at height and how to avoid these risks.
At Wijngaarden VeiligGoed we provide trainings and information to ensure that our customers can carry out their work safely and healthily. Among other things, we offer training on working at height, sharing our expertise and knowledge on proper PPE, safety procedures and guidelines.
We can also provide education on specific safety risks in certain industries and how best to mitigate them. Our training and information sessions are provided by experienced consultants who are up to date with the applicable laws and regulations.
Working at height; laws and regulations
The main legislation dealing with working at height is the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Decree.
Occupational Health and Safety Act
The Working Conditions Act obliges employers to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for their employees. The Working Conditions Decree is an elaboration of this law and sets concrete requirements for occupational health and safety, including working at height.
Health and Safety Order
The Working Conditions Decree stipulates that employers must carry out a Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E) to assess the risks of working at height and take appropriate safety measures. This may include, for example, the use of collective or personal protective equipment. Employers are also required to provide employees working at height with appropriate instructions and training on the relevant safety measures.
There are also specific regulations in force covering certain situations of working at height. For example, the Construction Process Regulations, which ensure safety on construction sites, or the Scaffolding Directive, which provides guidance on the erection and use of scaffolding.
Inspectorate SZW
In the Netherlands, laws and regulations on working at height are monitored by the Inspectorate SZW. Employers who fail to comply can be fined or even criminally prosecuted.
It is vital that employers and employees are aware of the applicable laws and regulations to ensure a safe working environment and prevent accidents.
Wijngaarden VeiligGoed
At Wijngaarden VeiligGoed, we are proud of our 50-plus years of existence as a leading supplier of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the Netherlands. We have built up a wealth of knowledge and expertise in workplace safety over the decades.
For example, we understand better than anyone how important it is to use the right PPE when working at height. That is why we offer an extensive range of protective equipment for working at height, including fall arrest belts, helmets, safety harnesses and lifting equipment. In addition, we can provide our customers with tailored advice on which PPE is suitable for specific work situations.
At Wijngaarden VeiligGoed, we believe it is important to offer our customers the highest quality and best service. You can therefore contact one of our consultants for advice on working at height and the associated PPE without any obligation.
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More information
Our advisors are happy to help you or make an appointment if you wish.
Phone: +31 184 434 455
Mail: info@veiliggoed.nl