Forest Operations > Operational Hazards > Working at height

Working at height

Due to the large size of heavy machinery used in the forest, working at heights is often required.

Thoughtful design of machinery and equipment by manufacturers can eliminate the risk of falls from heights by providing safe access points and railings where required.

When working at heights greater than 2 meters from the ground you need to make sure you have safety railing or fall prevention equipment in place (e.g. harness).

If possible, the need to work at heights should be removed.

Example:

Having greasing points relocated to a lower position and a grease line put in place will make maintenance safer and easier (see Fig 24).

Fig 24 Operator greasing the whole crane from the ground.

No one should ever be on the outside of a machine or vehicle while it is mobile.