Working with Altitude

Working with Altitude

Posted by Jesse Perez on 4th Aug 2016

Working in any field where you find yourself at a very high altitude can be dangerous, especially if there are no safety measures that have been put into place. Precautions should always be taken but we all make mistakes, and sometimes we overlook some of the important ones. Here are a few things a person who works with heights should always do:

Remember: A clean workplace is a safe workplace.

Truer words were never spoken. We’ve all seen it before: you’re driving down the road and you notice roofers on top of a house with cords, tools, and boxes all over the place. You might think to yourself “That looks very dangerous” and you would be correct. Being productive is important and it’s understandable if you don’t have the time to keep your work area clean, but you know what else lowers productivity? Falling off a roof. Take the time and be sure that you look up every once in a while and try to spot any trip hazards. A 30-second scan around the work area can save you time and money from medical treatment. Be prepared, organize your things and be cautious. Doing this can go a long way in the world of workplace safety.

Check the weather.

Being prepared is important, so checking the forecast is a no brainer. OSHA has made report after report about employees succumbing to a heat related illness. Most of these employees are roofers. A person in a high altitude usually has no protection from the sun, also they tend to be the closest to the sun than any other employee. Worst thing with these factors is that the effects of the sun are stronger since you are closer and exposed longer to it. Check the weather and take all precautions to protect yourself from the sun (i.e. cooling vest, sunscreen, neck shades and hats).

Don’t slack on quality.

DIY methods are always cool, and can save a few bucks. There’s a place and time to save money, however, protecting yourself from a high altitude fall should not be one of those times. A flimsy rope or a non-approved harness can get someone hurt. Taking fall protection seriously is something you should be doing, because OSHA does take it seriously. One of the first violations OSHA looks for in high altitude work places is in the fall protection category; such as what measures are being taken to prevent a fall, and whether the quality of the protection is up to code.

Taking precautions go a long way. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that saving time means you are going to make more money. A fall from a roof can cost you quite a bit in the long run.

Calolympic Safety has what you need for fall protection. Harnesses, anchorage, and self-retracting lines - we have it and are ready to help you choose the right equipment for the job.