Work at Height
An Opening Is a Fall Hazard Until It Is Properly Protected
Rooflights, floor openings and access gaps can blend into the work area, especially when surfaces are dusty, covered or visually similar. A warning alone does not prevent a fall. Before anyone works nearby, identify every opening, choose a reliable method that prevents access or provides collective protection, and keep that protection effective as the job changes.
Controls to confirm
- Identify and clearly mark every rooflight, floor opening and fragile surface during the work-at-height assessment and pre-job walkdown.
- Use suitable fixed covers, guardrails, scaffolding or other approved collective protection before relying on personal fall-protection equipment.
- Inspect the protection before each shift and after any change, and stop work immediately if a cover, barrier or access control is moved or becomes ineffective.
Today’s action
Walk the work area before the first task and physically verify that every opening and fragile surface has effective, secured protection.
Future HSSE email updates
Register interest in HSSE email updates.
Record your interest in future Worksite Safety Hub messages, selected HSSE news and new-resource alerts. Email delivery is not connected yet.
Your experience matters
Share your thoughts on this page
Have a question, a useful experience or a suggestion? Add your input below.
Comments are public. Keep them respectful and relevant. Do not share contact details, confidential information or emergency reports.
Comments on this page
Loading comments…