FALL PROTECTION PLAN

This Fall Protection Plan is specific to the following project :

Project :

Date Prepared :

Date Modified :

Prepared by :

Approved by :

Supervised by :

1 OBJECTIVE

The objective of the fall protection plan is to identify and evaluate fall hazards to which employees and
sub-contractors will be exposed, and to provide fall control measures.

2 POLICY

It is the policy of Chia Hin Building & Plumbing Construction Pte Ltd to safeguard the safety and
health of every employee, sub-contractor and visitor. The Company is fully committed to prevention of
injury and ill health, and continual improvement in its safety and health performance.

The Company’s fall protection plan is developed in accordance with the Code of Practice for Working
Safely at Height 2009, published by the Workplace Safety and Health Council.

Every worksite shall maintain a site fall protection plan, which shall be contextualized to the specific
operating requirements. Project Manager shall be responsible in maintaining and implementing an
effective site fall protection plan.

Reference Documentation : WSH Policy

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 3 RESPONSIBILITIES

Company has defined roles and responsibilities for safety and health. In relation the fall protection plan,
the following overall responsibilities are also defined :

A. Employer, including Sub-contractor

It is the responsibility of the employer to provide fall protection to affected employees,

and to ensure that every employee understands and adheres to the procedures of the
fall protection plan.

B. Project Manager

Project Manager shall :

i. Implement the fall protection policy and plan;

ii. Provide training to employees and supervisors in recognizing fall
hazards and the use of fall protection systems;
iii. Perform routine safety checks of work operations;
iv. Correct any unsafe practices or conditions immediately;
v. Maintain records of training, equipment issue, and fall protection
systems;
vi. Investigate all incidents that result in employee injury; and
vii. Review the effectiveness of the fall protection plan.

C. Line Management (Engineer / Supervisor / Foreman)

i. Enforce the fall protection plan;

ii. Conduct regular inspections on fall protection;
iii. Communicate to workers on fall protection measures;
iv. Correct any unsafe practices or conditions immediately.

D. WSH Personnel (WSH Officer / Coordinator / Safety Assessor)

i. Assist PM in the implementation of the fall protection plan;

ii. Evaluate effectiveness of the fall protection measures (including
permit-to-work);
iii. Conduct training on fall protection measures;
iv. Maintain records of training, equipment issue, and fall protection
systems;
v. Investigate all incidents that result in employee injury.

E. Employee, including Sub-contractor

i. Understand and adhere to the procedures outlined in the fall

protection plan;
ii. Correctly use fall protection equipment;
iii. Bring to management’s attention any unsafe or hazardous
conditions or practices that may cause injury to either
themselves or any other employees; and
iv. Report any incident that causes or could have caused injury to
any person.

Reference Documentation : WSHMS - Duties and Responsibilities

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 4 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Assessment Methodology

Source: MOM

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 4.1 Risk assessments shall be conducted by a team of persons who have a good
knowledge of the work to be assessed.

4.2 Fall hazards can be identified by considering :

 Method of work, where there is need to work at height

 Work areas where there is opening or open sides
 Temporary structure e.g. scaffolds
 Environmental conditions, e.g. slippery surfaces, lighting level, unstable soil
conditions
 Layout and location of equipment

4.3 Possible types of incident or incident and ill health include :

 Person falling from height

 Object falling from height
 Slips or falls on the level
 Collapse of structure
 Struck by or against object

4.4 Persons-at-risk include :

 Persons directly involved in the operation

 Persons not directly involved in the operation
 Visitors of the workplace
 Members of the public

4.5 For the risk evaluation methodology, refer to WSHMS.

4.6 Hierarchy of Risk Controls

When determining risk control measures, the following should be considered:

4.6.1 Eliminate the need to work at height

 Elimination is the most effective way to make sure that workers do not fall from height.
This can be achieve by encourage work on ground rather than at height, maximise the
pre-assembly of steel structure, using paint roller with extended handles and using
remote release shackles for crane lifted loads position at height.

4.6.2 Undertake the work using a passive fall protection system

 Passive fall prevention systems are ‘material or equipment or a combination of both that
are designed and intended to prevent a person falling.
 If elimination is not possible, providing safe access to and from work location is the next
to consider.
 It also ensure that after the initial installation other than regular checks and
maintenance, no ongoing adjustment, alternation or operation by any person, to ensure
the integrity of the device to perform its function is needed.
 Example of passive fall protection systems are scaffolds, aerial work platform, toeboard,
barricades and guardrails, covers for openings and ladder.

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4.6.3 Administrative control

 An administrative control reduces or eliminates exposure to hazards by adherence to

procedures or instructions.
 Workers only permit to work at height if they equip with appropriate fall protection.
 Workers are trained and instructed of the safety work procedure when working at
height.
 Permit to work system shall be required for work at height more than 2m.

4.6.4 Personal protective equipment

 This method is adopted only if elimination and engineering control is not feasible as this
method only minimize the consequence of a fall rather than prevent the occurrence of a
fall.
 Safety belt / harness must be worn for worker working at a height more than 2m.
 Ensure that suitable means of anchorage are provided.

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 5 TRAINING

5.1 Every employee who may be exposed to fall hazards are required to receive training on
how to recognize such hazards, and how to minimize their exposure to them.
Employees shall receive training as soon after employment as possible, and before
they are required to work in areas where fall hazards exist.

5.2 A record of employees who have received training and training dates shall be
maintained. Training of employees shall include:

i. Nature of the fall hazards employees may be exposed to.

ii. Correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, disassembling,
and inspecting fall protection systems.
iii. Limitations of the use of fall protection equipment.
iv. Correct procedures for equipment and materials handling, and
storage and erection of overhead protection.
v. Role of each employee in the fall protection plan.
vi. Requirements of the WSH Act, subsidiary legislation and other
standards relating to working at height.
vii. Requirements for reporting incidents.

5.3 Additional training shall be provided on a regular basis, or as needed when changes
are made to the fall protection plan.

5.4 Safe Work Procedures

Safe Work Procedures (SWPs) are the most common form of administrative controls in
workplaces. It is a set of systematic instructions on how work can be carried out safely. Using
information obtained from the Risk Assessment, a set of SWPs should be developed for various
work activities that have a risk of falling from height.
The SWP generally provides instructions on how jobs are to be performed, persons responsible
for the jobs, what safety precautions must be taken (based on RA made earlier) and what kind
of training and/or certification is necessary to be able to competently carry out these jobs.
The SWP must be communicated to everyone involved in the job so that each person is aware
of their roles and responsibilities. The SWP must be communicated to those who will be
affected by the job.
It is necessary to provide adequate level of supervision to ensure that the safe work procedures
are being followed. Regular review of the effectiveness of the procedures must be taken.
Make sure that the work is well organized so that workers do not increase the risk of fall for
themselves or others. For example, sequence jobs so that different trades are not working above
or below each other at the same time.

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5.5 Scaffold Safety
- A scaffold supervisor who has undergone an approved course of training shall
supervise the erection, relocation, alteration and/or dismantling of scaffolds.
- Scaffold erectors who have undergone an approved course of training shall perform
the erection, relocation, alteration and/or dismantling of scaffolds.
- Suspended scaffold riggers who have undergone an approved course of training
shall perform the erection, relocation, alteration and/or dismantling of suspended
scaffolds.
- Full fall protection shall be used during erection and/or dismantling of scaffolds.

- Scaffold supervisor shall inspect, tag and sign the scaffold within the seven (7) days
immediately preceding the use of the scaffold, or exposure to weather conditions,
before use. Scaffold tagging shall be in accordance with Scaffold Tagging
Procedures.
- Every scaffold erected at a building under construction shall be erected in such a
way that it extends higher than the construction of the uppermost permanent floor of
the building by not less than one (1) meter above that floor. Where the extension
exceeds two (2) meters or more, the scaffold shall be adequately supported.
- A Professional Engineer (PE) shall design, supervise , and examine a scaffold where
the work platform is used to support more than two (2) persons or materials and
tools exceeding 25 kgf in each bay, the scaffold is used to support more than four (4)
persons in any bay, the scaffold exceeds thirty (30) meters in height, or any
cantilever support.

- The Professional Engineer shall inspect the scaffold at least once every three (3)
months.
- Footing or anchorage for scaffolds shall be sound, rigid and capable of supporting
maximum intended load(s) without settling or displacement. Bricks, concrete
blocks, boxes, 2 x 4’s, etc. shall not be used to support scaffolds.
- Two (2) or more guardrails, and toe boards at least 90 mm shall be installed on all
open sides and ends of working platforms. The uppermost guardrail shall be at least
1.1 meters, and the vertical distance between any two adjacent guardrails shall not
exceed 600 mm. Scaffold cross bracing shall not be used for guardrails.
- Working platforms shall be fully decked or covered, and be at least 500mm.
- Scaffolds shall be provided with an access ladder or equivalent safe means of access.
Scaffold frames are not acceptable for access. Access points shall be clearly marked
with a sign or label
- Scaffolds and components shall be capable of supporting 4 times the maximum
intended load(s).
- Scaffold frames, bracing, footings/anchorage, brackets, ladders, trusses, etc. shall
not be damaged or weakened from any cause. Damaged or weakened components
shall be immediately repaired and/or replaced.

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 - Only approved accessories and components shall be used in erection of scaffolds.
- Scaffolds shall be plumb, securely and rigidly braced to prevent swaying and
displacement.
- All planking shall be scaffold grade or equal, overlapped a minimum of 300 mm and
extended over end supports not less than 50mm and not more than 4 times the
thickness of the board.
- Safe work zone(s) shall be provided and maintained around the base of scaffolds on
all sides. Safe work zone shall be a minimum of 10 feet (3 meters) from scaffold
and related construction activity.
- Rolling scaffolds shall not be relocated while in use.
- Rolling scaffolds shall be on level/firm surface and all wheels locked/secured to
prevent movement.
5.6 SAFE WORK PROCEDURE FOR WORKING WITH
BOOM LIFT & SCISSOR LIFT

1. Only worker that had under gone training are allowed to use the machine.

2. Ensure that machine is in good working condition. Foreman and engineer to check the ma-
chine upon it arrival on site. Asked for a service report form the supplier. Ensure all brake
and wheel are in good working condition and all switches are functional. No missing guard
rail or toe board. Do not use machine if any of the above mention is faulty or missing.

3. The machine is not a lifting machine, do not use it to lift any load expect for it intended pur-
pose.

4. Always have a guide if machine is moving around the site. Look out for any over head ser-
vices and ground condition. Do not station or travel machine on soft ground.

5. Engineer to ensure is service monthly by supplier and service report is kept.

6. Worker to put on safety belt and anchor to the machine guard rail while working.

7. Key to the machine is to be kept and not left on machine to prevent any unauthorized usage.

8. If out-rigger is needed, ensure it fully extended before moving the machine upward.

9. Do not over load the machine, to prevent toppling of machine.

10. Foreman or engineer to brief worker daily on use usage of machine.

5.7 SAFE WORK PROCEDURE

(WORKING AT HEIGHT WITH MANCAGE)

Most of the construction worksite accidents, especially the more serious or fatal ones, have been
resulted from other persons falling from height or persons being struck by falling objects that can
be prevented.

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The common causes resulting accidents while working at height with man-cage are listed as :
- No proper hand hold, foot hold or anchorage point for harness
- Improper securing of lifting gear to the mancage
- Mancage door not secured
- Failure to wear or anchor safety harness
- Covered side openings within the cage if any to prevent falling objects which may hit
worker working below
- Overloading of the intended WSL of the cage
- Sudden crane swing causing person to fall within the cage

To minimized or control such risks while working at height in a man cage we have to ensure that
all concerns that are listed above shall be addressed with means that are safe.

Workers working at height in a man cage need the appropriate knowledge, skills and
experience to work safely, or be under the supervision of someone else who has it.
Prior to entering the cage before lifting commences, They need to be able to recognise the risks,
understand the appropriate systems of work and be competent in the skills to carry them out such
as:
- installing and wearing harness systems, PPE.
Toolbox shall be conducted to ensure all workers know their specific role in the job & also be
frequently reminded on the hazards while working at height in a man cage.

Keep a tidy site; prevent material which could fall from accumulating. Nothing should ever be
thrown from height. Prevent access to danger areas underneath or adjacent to work at height.

1. Sufficient anchorage point for workers to secure their harness

2. Any small side openings are properly covered
3. Loose hand held tools are to be properly kept in toolbox. Do not place around on the
floor of the cage which can cause tripping hazard or falling objects that could endanger
life of workers working below.
4. Supervisor to ensure competent rigger to secured the lifting gear to the man cage prop-
erly
5. Prior to the lifting operation, supervisor to ensure that the mancage door is secured by
the latch on the inside of the cage.
6. Do not overload the cage. (Max 2 persons as per PE design)
7. Lifting supervisor and rigger are to guide the crane operator during the hoisting to the
intended destination with proper verbal or visual signal. Avoid sudden swing of boom
which may cause the mancage to swing

Report to the supervisor, in any circumstances where the safety provisions are breached.

5.8 Ladders / Working platforms.

1. Ladders must e checked for soundness before use. The following must be observed when using
a ladders :-
 Securely fixed to prevent undue swaying from top and slipping at bottom.

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  Placed as near as possible at an inclination of one in four.

 Provide handhold to height at least 1meter above the place of landing.

 Equally and properly supported on each upright and not by one of its rungs.

 If a ladder cannot be secured at the bottom, have someone hold it firmly for you.

 No more than one person should be on the portable ladder at the same time.

 Avoid causing undue sagging of the ladder rungs.

 Be careful when the ladder rungs are rounded or moist.

2. Work platforms must be checked for soundness and firm footing before use.

3. Ensure that all the planks on the working platform are securely tied at both ends.

4. All working platform that being used shall be at least 635mm in width and able to support two
person plus 25kgf of tools and materials.

5. Ensure that the planks used on the working platform with no sign of defects such as split, bro-
ken, crack and painted on the it surface.

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 6 FALL PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

6.1 General Requirements

6.1.1 Adequate overhead protection shall be provided against falling objects.

6.1.2 Every open side or opening into or through which a person may fall shall be covered or
guarded by an effective barrier.

6.1.3 Secure handhold and foothold shall be provided for any person who has to work at a place
where he is liable to fall more than 2m.

6.1.4 Where it is not practicable to provide a secure handhold and foothold, safety harness/belt
shall be provided with sufficient and secure anchorage. The anchorage shall not be lower
than the level of working position of the work personnel.

6.1.5 Adequate lighting shall be provided, in the access leading to ladder and steps and
emergency passageways when working at height.

6.1.6 All floors, steps, stairs, passages, platforms and gangways must be free from obstruction,
oil or slippery substances.

6.1.7 Where work is being performed on roofs having a gradient more than ¼, there shall be
protection against sliding.

6.1.8 Use scaffold with tag indicating ‘OK to Use’ and double check that the scaffold had been
inspected and with the validity period (7 days). Also refer to SWP on Scaffolds.

6.1.9 Where work shall be carried out at a height of more than 2m, at least 500mm wide of work
platform on a scaffold with upper and intermediate handrails must be provided.

6.1.10 Suitable guardrails of adequate strength shall be provided to a height of at least 1m with
intermediate rails of 500mm above the work platform.

6.1.11 Ladders used shall be of good construction. Every ladder shall be positioned and securely
fixed; and shall be held in place by a person if required.

6.1.12 Excavations that are 2m or deeper shall be protected by guardrail systems, fences,
barricades, or covers.

6.1.13 Walkways that allow employees to cross over an excavation that is 2m or deeper shall be
equipped with guardrails.

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 6.2 Fall Protection Systems

The Code of Practice for Working Safely at Height 2009, published by the Workplace Safety and Health
Council, has provided comprehensive guidelines on various fall protection measures. The Company
shall comply with the requirements set under the Code of Practice.

Some of the common fall protection systems to be adopted :

A. Covers

- All covers shall be secured to prevent accidental displacement.

- Covers shall be color-coded or bear the markings “HOLE” or “COVER”.
- Covers shall be able to support adequately the weight of employees, equipment, and
materials that might cross them.

B. Guardrail Systems

Guardrail systems shall be erected at unprotected edges, ramps, runways, or holes where it is
determined that erecting such systems will not cause an increased hazard to employees. The
following specifications will be followed in the erection of guardrail systems. Top-rails shall be :

- Able to withstand impact of a person falling against it

- inspected as frequently as necessary to ensure strength and stability;
- 1m above the walking/working level; and

Mid-rails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, and solid panels shall be erected in
accordance with the WSH requirements.

Gates or removable guardrail sections shall be placed across openings of hoisting areas or
holes when they are not in use to prevent access.

C. PERSONAL FALL ARREST SYSTEMS

Personal fall arrest systems shall be issued to and used by employees as determined by
Responsible Person and may consist of anchorage, connectors, body harness, deceleration
device, lifeline, or suitable combinations. Personal fall arrest systems shall :

- Conform to established standards that would limit any free fall and bring the person to a
stop in a safe manner;
- Be strong enough to withstand adequately the potential impact energy of an employee
free falling;
- Be inspected prior to each use for damage and deterioration; and
- Be removed from service if any damaged components are detected.

All components of a fall arrest system shall meet the specifications of established standards
and shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

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 Lifelines shall be :

- Designed, installed, and used under the supervision of Responsible Person;

- Protected against cuts and abrasions; and
- Equipped with horizontal lifeline connection devices capable of locking in both
directions on the lifeline when used on suspended scaffolds or similar work platforms
that have horizontal lifelines that may become vertical lifelines.

Anchorages must adequately support the intended load attached and shall be :

- Designed, installed, and used under the supervision of Responsible Person;

- Capable of supporting twice the weight expected to be imposed on it; and
- Independent of any anchorage used to support or suspend platforms.

Reference standards for personal fall arrest systems :

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 6.3 Tasks And Work Areas Requiring Fall Protection

Unless otherwise specified, PM shall evaluate the work-site(s) and determine the specific type(s) of fall
protection to be used in the following situations.

A. Framework and Reinforcing Steel

Fall protection will be provided when an employee is climbing or moving at a height of over 2m
when working with rebar assemblies.

B. Hoist Areas

Guardrail systems or personal fall arrest systems will be used in hoist areas when an employee
may fall 2m or more. If guardrail systems must be removed for hoisting, employees are
required to use personal fall arrest systems.

C. Openings / Holes

Covers or guardrail systems shall be erected around holes (including skylights) that are 2m or
more above lower levels. If covers or guardrail systems must be removed, employees are
required to use personal fall arrest systems.

D. Leading Edges

Guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems shall be used when
employees are constructing a leading edge that is 2m or more above lower levels. An
alternative Fall Protection Plan shall be used if it is determined that the implementation of
conventional fall protection systems is infeasible or creates a greater hazard to employees. All
alternative Fall Protection Plans for work on leading edges shall:

- Be written specific to the particular job-site needs;

- Include explanation of how conventional fall protection is infeasible or creates a greater
hazard to employees;
- Explain what alternative fall protection will be used for each task;
- Be maintained in writing at the job-site by Responsible Person.

E. Overhand Bricklaying and Related Work

Guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, or controlled access zones
shall be provided to employees engaged in overhand bricklaying or related work 2m or more
above the lower level.

F. Precast Concrete Erection

Guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems shall be provided to
employees working 2m or more above the lower level while erecting or grouting precast
concrete members. An alternative Fall Protection Plan shall be used if it is determined that the
implementation of conventional fall protection systems is infeasible or creates a greater hazard
to employees. All alternative Fall Protection Plans for precast concrete erection shall:

- Be written specific to the particular job-site needs;

- Include explanation of how conventional fall protection is infeasible or creates a greater
hazard to employees;
- Explain what alternative fall protection will be used for each task;
- Be maintained in writing at the job-site by Responsible Person

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G. Roofing

i. Low-Slope Roofs

Fall protection shall be provided to employees engaged in roofing activities on low-

slope roofs with unprotected sides and edges 2m or more above lower levels. The
type(s) of fall protection needed shall be determined, and may consist of guardrail
systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, or a combination of a
warning line system and safety net system, warning line system and personal fall arrest
system, or warning line system and safety monitoring system.

ii. Steep Roofs

Guardrail systems with toe-boards, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems
will be provided to employees working on a steep roof with unprotected sides and
edges 2m or more above lower levels, as determined.

H. Wall Openings

Guardrail systems, safety net systems, or a personal fall arrest system will be provided to
employees working on, at, above, or near wall openings when the outside bottom edge of the
wall opening is 2m or more above lower levels and the inside bottom edge of the wall opening
is less than 39 inches above the walking/working surface. The type of fall protection to be used
will be determined.

I. Ramps, Runways, and Other Walkways

Employees using ramps, runways, and other walkways 2m or more above the lower level shall
be protected by guardrail systems.

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 7 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

7.1 Equipment used in a fall protection system must be:

 Inspected by a qualified person before use and on regular intervals

 Kept free from substances and conditions that could contribute to its deterioration, and
 Maintained in good working order

7.2 A maintenance program should be established and implemented to maintain equipment

in good working condition. The equipment subject to the maintenance regime should
include both operation and safety equipment.

7.3 Inspection of safety belt

Inspect the safety belt before use. Check the buckle, the webbing, the D-rings and the manufacturer’s
label for additional information.

Buckle –
Make sure the buckle’s tongue overlaps the buckle frame, moves freely and is not bent or worn down.
Check the roller to make sure it turns freely on the buckle frame.

Webbing –

Look for frayed, cracked, cut, burned or damaged webbing.

D-rings –

Check to see whether D-rings are bent or cracked.

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7.4 Inspection of full body harness

1) Webbing
Grasp the webbing with your hands 6 inches (152mm) to 8 inches
(203mm) apart. Bend the webbing in an inverted “U” as shown. The
surface tension resulting makes damaged fibers or cuts easier to
detect. Follow this procedure the entire length of the webbing,
inspecting both sides of each strap. Look for frayed edges, broken
fibers, pulled stitches, cuts, burns and chemical damage.

2) D-Rings/Back Pads
Check D-rings for distortion, cracks, breaks, and rough or sharp
edges. The D-ring should pivot freely. D-ring back pads should also be
inspected for damage.

3) Attachment of Buckles
Inspect for any unusual wear, frayed or cut fibers, or broken stitching
of the buckle or D-ring attachments.

4) Tongue/Grommets
The tongue receives heavy wear from repeated buckling and
unbuckling. Inspect for loose, distorted or broken grommets. Webbing
should not have additional punched holes.

5) Tongue Buckles
Buckle tongues should be free of distortion in shape and motion. They
should overlap the buckle frame and move freely back and forth in
their socket. Roller should turn freely on frame. Check for distortion or
sharp edges.

6) Friction and Mating Buckles

Inspect the buckle for distortion. The outer bars and center bars must
be straight. Pay special attention to corners and attachment points at
the center bar.

7) Quick-Connect Buckles
Inspect the buckle for distortion. The outer bars and center bars must
be straight. Make sure dual-tab release mechanism is free of debris
and engages properly.

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 7.5 Lanyard Inspection

Inspect the lanyard before use. Check the rope or webbing and the snap hooks. When inspecting lanyards,
begin at one end and work to the opposite end, slowly rotating the lanyard so that the entire circumference is
checked. Additionally, follow the procedures below.

1) Hardware
A) Snaps: Inspect closely for hook and eye distortions, cracks,
corrosion, or pitted surfaces. The keeper (latch) should seat into the
nose without binding and should not be distorted or obstructed. The
keeper spring should exert sufficient force to firmly close the keeper.
Keeper locks must prevent the keeper from opening when the keeper
closes.

B) Thimbles: The thimble must be firmly seated in the eye of the

splice, and the splice should have no loose or cut strands. The edges
of the thimble must be free of sharp edges, distortion, or cracks.

2) Wire Rope Lanyard

While rotating the wire rope lanyard, watch for cuts, frayed areas, or
unusual wearing patterns on the wire. Broken strands will separate
from the body of the lanyard.

3) Web Lanyard
While bending webbing over a pipe or mandrel, observe each side of
the webbed lanyard. This will reveal any cuts or breaks. Swelling,
discoloration, cracks and charring are obvious signs of chemical or
heat damage. Observe closely for any breaks in stitching.

4) Rope Lanyard
Rotate the rope lanyard while inspecting from end-to-end for any
fuzzy, worn, broken or cut fibers. Weakened areas from extreme
loads will appear as a noticeable change in original diameter. The
rope diameter should be uniform throughout, following a short break-
in period.

5) Shock Absorber Pack

The outer portion of the pack should be examined for burn holes and
tears. Stitching on areas where the pack is sewn to D-rings, belts or
lanyards should be examined for loose strands, rips and
deterioration.

6) Shock-Absorbing Lanyard
Shock-absorbing lanyards should be examined as a web lanyard
(described in item 3 above). However, also look for the warning flag
or signs of deployment. If the flag has been activated, remove this
shock-absorbing lanyard from service.

7.6 Self –Retracting Lifeline Inspection

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 1) Check Housing
Before every use, inspect the unit’s housing for loose fasteners and
bent, cracked, distorted, worn, malfunctioning or damaged parts.

2) Lifeline
Test the lifeline retraction and tension by pulling out several feet of
the lifeline and allow it to retract back into the unit. Always maintain a
light tension on the lifeline as it retracts.

The lifeline should pull out freely and retract all the way back into the
unit. Do not use the unit if the lifeline does not retract. The lifeline
must be checked regularly for signs of damage. Inspect for cuts,
burns, corrosion, kinks, frays or worn areas. Inspect any sewing (web
lifelines) for loose, broken or damaged stitching.

3) Braking Mechanism
The braking mechanism must be tested by grasping the lifeline
above the impact indicator and applying a sharp steady pull
downward which will engage the brakes. There should be no
slippage of the lifeline while the brakes are engaged, once tension is
released, the brakes will disengage and the unit will return to the
retractable mode. Do not use the unit if the brakes do not engage.

Check the hardware as directed in 1A under Lanyard Inspection. The

snap hook load indicator is located in the swivel of the snap hook.
The swivel eye will elongate and expose a red area when subjected
to fall arresting forces. Do not use the unit if the load impact indicator
has been activated.

7.7 Cleaning

Basic care of all safety equipment will prolong the durable life of the unit and will contribute toward the
performance of its vital safety function. Proper storage and maintenance after use are as important as
cleansing the equipment of dirt, corrosives or contaminants. Storage areas should be clean, dry and
free of exposure to fumes or corrosive elements.

Nylon or Polyster

Remove all surface dirt with a sponge dampened in plain water. Squeeze the sponge dry. Dip
the sponge in a mild solution of water and commercial soap or detergent. Work up a thick lather
with a vigorous back and forth motion; then wipe with a clean cloth. Hang freely to dry, but
away from excessive heat.

Housing

Periodically clean the unit using a damp cloth and mild detergent. Towel dry.

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 8 ACCIDENT / INCIDENT INVESTIGATION

8.1 All incidents that result in injury to workers, as well as near misses, regardless of their
nature, shall be reported and investigated as soon as possible to identify the cause and
means of prevention to eliminate the risk of re-occurrence.

8.2 In the event of such an incident, the fall protection shall be reevaluated by the Project
Manager to determine if additional practices, procedures, or training are necessary to
prevent similar future incidents.

Reference Documentation : WSHMS - Incident Investigation and Analysis

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 9 EMERGENCY RESPONSE

9.1 Introduction

9.1.1 When workers are suspended in mid-air after a fall, their lives hang in the balance - even if
they have survived the fall without a scratch. The intention of this procedure is to help fully
understand the implications of the worker falling, being arrested and then suspended by a
harness, which initially saves them, but minutes later may kill them due to suspension
trauma.

9.1.2 Unless the worker is rescued promptly using established safe procedures, suspension
trauma could occur and result in serious or fatal injury as the brain, kidneys and other
organs are deprived of oxygen.

9.1.3 Three things that occurs which aggravate the problem:

 The worker is suspended in an upright posture with legs dangling.

 The safety harness straps exert pressure on leg veins, compressing them and reducing blood flow
back to the heart.

 The harness keeps the worker in an upright position, regardless of loss of consciousness

9.1.4 This will induce fatal reduced blood flow to the brain, but also the other vital organs, such
as the kidneys. The kidneys are highly sensitive to blood oxygen levels and renal failure as
a result of suspension trauma is a real possibility.

9.1.5 Injuries suffered during the fall, or the shock resulting from the experience of the fall, can
increase the onset and severity of suspension trauma, as can physical and environmental
factors such as fatigue, dehydration, hypothermia, cardiovascular disease, respiratory
disease and blood loss.

9.2 Critical phases of rescue

9.2.1 Below are the four critical phases of rescuing a suspended worker:

A. Before the fall

B. At fall arrest
C. Suspension
D. Post-fall rescue

9.2.2 Each phase presents unique safety challenges. Suspension trauma can be influenced by
all aspects of the fall, so they are all equally important.

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A. Before the fall

The key issue of fall protection prior to a fall is compliance. If a harness is too uncomfortable,
too inconvenient or interferes too much with task completion, workers may not use the
equipment or may modify it (illegally) to make it more tolerable.

A second major point is how far a worker falls before his fall is arrested. The greater the fall, the
greater the stress on the body when the fall is arrested. The longer the lanyard the longer the
fall distance, however, the shorter the lanyard, the more often it will have to be repositioned
when workers are mobile. Restraint lifelines are the preferred method of working because it
allows maximum flexibility. Working in restraint prevents the worker from falling, yet should a
fall occur the arrest distance is kept to a minimum (limited fall).

B. At fall arrest

The whole concept of fall protection is that workers who fall will be stopped by a tethering
system. Unfortunately, the posture of the falling worker is unpredictable. Depending on the
harness attachment point and the position of the worker's body at fall arrest, different harness
attachments offer different advantages. An attachment near the shoulders means that any drag
from the lanyard will serve to position the worker's body in an upright position so the forces are
distributed from head to foot. The head is somewhat protected if the legs and body precede it in
the fall, but this offers some disadvantages after the fall arrest is completed

C. Suspension

It is natural to assume that once a fall has been arrested then the fall protection system has
successfully completed its job. Unfortunately, this is not the case. A worker suspended in an
upright position with the legs dangling in a harness of any type is subject to suspension trauma.

Fall victims can slow the onset of suspension trauma by pushing down vigorously with the legs,
by positioning their body in a slight leg-high position or, by standing up. Harness design and fall
injuries may prevent these actions.

D. Rescue

Rescue must come rapidly to minimise the dangers of suspension trauma. The circumstances
together with the lanyard attachment point will determine the possibility of self-rescue.

In situations where self-rescue is not possible, workers must be supervised at all times.
Regardless of whether a worker can self-rescue or must rely on others, time is of the essence
because a worker may lose consciousness in only a few minutes.

For conscious casualties it is recommended (where possible) that the suspended person keep
their legs moving to keep the blood pumping and reduce the risk of suspension trauma.

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 9.3 What to look out for - If a worker is suspended in a harness

9.3.1 The possible signs and symptoms of suspension trauma can start to be seen in 2/3 minutes
and can include:

 Faintness
 Nausea
 Breathlessness
 Dizziness
 Sweating
 Unusually low heart rate
 Unusually low blood pressure
 Paleness
 Hot flushes
 Skin tone may appear grey in colour
 Loss of vision
 Increased heart rate

9.3.2 Owing to the possibility of damage to vital organs - the result of suspension trauma - it is
recommended that all recovered casualties should be taken to their nearest First-aid room
for examination and observation.

9.4 Rescue Plans

9.4.1 Rescue plans should include procedures for:

 Preventing prolonged suspension

 Performing rescue and treatment as quickly as possible
 Identifying suspension trauma signs and symptoms

9.4.2 The different methodology to be considered for rescue operations are:

[Link] Emergency Services

Call SCDF.

[Link] Use of crane for rescue operation

This option has severe limitations, the main one being time. Other restrictions and
shortcomings that make this a less than ideal solution are:

 The crane is away from the accident location.

 The driver may be away from the crane.
 Rescue by crane is limited to building façades and often is not able to provide access
and rescue internal to the structure.
 The crane may be in the wrong location.

[Link] Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP)

This option for rescue can have its limitations such as available access and height
restriction as the casualty may be at a height greater than the reach of the MEWP.

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[Link] Rope Access Rescue

Rope rescue requires a technical competency, which demands a high level of training and
re-training to acquire and retain this skill set. Given the limited time to complete a rescue,
trained rope rescue personnel would need to be on stand-by and within close proximity to
any incident. Donning the necessary kit to carry out a rope rescue can also be time
consuming given that every minute the casualty is hanging is critical. Perhaps the greatest
restriction is that it is a skill to which only a few would, or could, be trained.

[Link] Third Party Rescue Systems

There are a number of considerations to take into account when considering third part
rescue systems. In every consideration TIME is the critical factor and should be done as
quickly as possible, but 100 percent safe for the rescue crew.

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10 SUPERVISION

10.1 A competent person shall be appointed to provide proper and adequate supervision for
workers to ensure that they are provided with fall protection measures.

10.2 Persons performing supervision must ensure that:

- Required safety measures are in place before the commencement of work;

- Workers are adequately supervised, particularly working in an elevated positions; and
- Only workers who have received appropriate training and instruction in relation to the tasks
they are to perform are to carry out the work.

11 CHANGES TO THE PLAN

11.1 Any changes to the Fall Protection Program (and alternative Fall Protection Plans, if in
place) shall be approved by Project Manager, and shall be reviewed by a qualified
person as the job progresses to determine additional practices, procedures or training
needs necessary to prevent fall injuries.

11.2 Affected employees shall be notified of all procedure changes, and trained if necessary.

11.3 A copy of this plan, and any additional alternative Fall Protection Plans, shall be
maintained at the job-site by Project Manager.

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