Working at height is always hazardous and should be avoided where possible. In an abattoir, a fall from height may involve ladders, stairs, or a fragile surfaces. This can result in broken and dislocated bones, permanent disabilities or a fatality. As a general rule the hierarchy of controls in the case of working at heights are as follows:

• Eliminate the need to work at height
• Safe place of work for everyone (e.g. guard rails and working platforms)
• Collective fall arrest (i.e. for everyone) (e.g. net and airbags etc.)
• Personal fall arrest (e.g. work restraints, rope, harness etc)
• Ladders should only ever be used as a last resort and then with 3 contacts.

Disclaimer

It is imperative that you conduct your own risk assessment, relevant to your workplace. The content of this website is for direction purposes only and in no way substitutes your duty to consider all the hazards present in your workplace. The Safety Supply Company has made every effort to make sure that the content of this website is correct; however no legal responsibility will be accepted should any misleading statements, errors, or omissions occur. In no event will The Safety Supply Company be held liable for any damages arising out of the use of the information provided by information contained in this website.

Below is equipment that we have chosen as especially relevant to some of the hazards listed above.