Working at Heights FAQs

Haz-Ed

26 September 2025

1. What topics and information are included in Haz-Ed’s Working at Heights training program?

Our Work Safely at Heights training course at Haz-Ed covers a comprehensive range of height safety issues, including the following:

• Codes of Practice and Australian Standards relevant to working at elevated job sites
• Safe ways to work at heights or on fragile surfaces
• Safety practices in implementing fall prevention systems
• Emergency preparedness and response, as well as hazard reporting
• Safe height and reach for elevated working platforms (EWP)
• Safe working load and ground conditions for EWP units
• Proper use, care, and storage of equipment for working at heights
• How falls generate forces
• Understanding the dangers of overhead power lines and other electrical hazards

2. What safety measures should you follow when using an Elevated Working Platform (EWP)?

An EWP is a mobile unit designed to raise or lower people as they carry out a task. Consider the following when deciding which specific type to use:

• The type of task you are performing
• The height and reach of the unit
• The equipment’s safe working load
• If the ground condition is stable
• Where the unit will be located at the job site and how it will interact with fixed structures (such as power lines), pedestrians, and other vehicles
• Other related hazards, such as weather conditions and falling objects

The regional local government also advises taking the following safety precautions:

• Ensuring that the employees receive appropriate training and are well-versed with EWP use
• That the unit is inspected for operational safety before each application
• That it is ideally operated on a firm, flat surface
• Pneumatic tyres are all in excellent working condition
• The EWP is used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• If a boom-type EWP is used, harnesses must be properly worn and attached at all times

3. What are the requirements for fall injury prevention systems inspection?

Even high-quality equipment can deteriorate over time due to wear and tear and exposure to elements. To ensure effectiveness, fall injury prevention systems must be inspected by a qualified individual before any work begins. Workers must also be aware of the fall prevention equipment limitations and how to use it properly.

4. How can you tell if someone is capable of working at heights?

Working at heights has inherent risks. Employers are responsible for keeping the workplace safe from the risks of falls. Operators hired for the job must be competent in these high-risk work environments.

A person is qualified to work at this setting if they possess the required skills, knowledge, and experience. The level of competence required depends on the technicality of the task.

5. What are the requirements for edge protection?

Safe Work Australia mandates the use of edge protection when working at a height of 2 metres or more in housing construction sites:

• Floor or roof structure openings
• Stairs
• Landing
• Platforms
• Shaft Opening

Refer to AS 1657 and AS 1567 for further requirements.

6. What are the requirements for working on brittle or fragile roofing?

Fragile roofing may give way without warning and endanger a person working on it. A roof that’s likely to be brittle are made with:

• Polycarbonate or plastic
• Asbestos
• Fibre cement sheets
• Wood slabs
• Glass
• Acrylic
• Synthetic moulded or fabricated material used to sheath a roof

Regardless of the material used to build the roof, it should be considered fragile until someone competent confirms it isn’t. All potential hazards must be identified before beginning any type of work or using the area as a means of access.

7. When is a ladder suitable for a task?

Falls from ladders can result in serious injuries.

Ladders should be used only for simple access work, jobs of short duration, or when risk assessment indicates that using advanced fall protection equipment is not necessary because of the task’s low-risk nature.

If your task will take more than 30 minutes to complete, it is recommended to use an alternative, such as an elevated work platform (EWP) or a scaffold. Safety precautions must be observed if ladder is your only option.

Make sure it is appropriate for the job’s load requirements and that it meets Australian standards.

8. How long is working at heights training valid?

Working at heights is a high-risk activity. You need a certificate if your role involves working at a site where there is a risk of falling.

Falls remain a leading cause of injury across Australian workplaces, so proper training is crucial to keep workers safe.

Competency based training does not expire, but relevant standards require regular refresher training. Industry typically requires a refresher course every 2 years.

9. If I have a Working at Heights qualification, can I decide on appropriate anchor points for attaching harnesses?

Ensuring anchor points are correctly attached is crucial for your fall protection system. They should be able to function as expected. Only competent individuals can install them. You are qualified if you have a Working at Heights certification.

See if the person or service provider you wish to work with has experience in installing fall protection and safety systems, and can ensure that their installation is up to date with the latest regulations.

For both temporary and permanent anchor points, the maximum safe working load, the installer name, the last inspection date, and the Australian standards they comply with must be noted.

10. What am I qualified to do if I am certified to work at heights?

The Work at Heights training covers the items listed in question 1, as well as the following skills:

• Planning work in line with legislative requirements, site procedures, and manufacturer instructions
• Identifying and controlling workplace hazards
• Developing communication methods
• Choosing and using the right equipment
• Deciding on solid and reliable anchorage points
• Selecting and using fall restraint systems and work positioning systems correctly
• Understanding how fall arrest systems work
• Employing energy absorbing equipment
• Ensuring correct use of ladders through ladder safety training

11. Is the Haz-Ed Working at Heights training course recognised in all states?

Our Work Safely at Heights training course is accepted across Australia. Haz-Ed is a nationally recognised, registered training organisation with (RTO) #40472.

Fall hazards are present in any workplace where there is a risk of fall. Still, working in elevated areas is often downplayed. Regardless of the height, falls can result in major injuries and can be fatal, too.

Our course prepares you as you deliver high-risk jobs that are subject to stringent regulatory requirements.

12. How often do I need to update my Working at Heights certificate?

The law does not specify a time range, but it is common practice in the industry to do so every two (2) years. Many factors influence how often you should renew your certificate. Your employer or specific industry may require more frequent updates.

Industry standards can also change at any time, and you will want to stay aligned and ensure compliance with safety protocols.