Page 19 - Farm Safely Handbook 2018

FALLS & COLLAPSES
Fragile roof sheeting and skylights are heavily linked with these types of death. Weathered skylights become indistinguishable from other roofing material. Both skylights and glass, when painted over, are not recognisable as such and are highly dangerous.
The number one rule before working from a height is to assess the risks in order to prevent falls and fatalities. A farmer should avoid heights where possible, however, there are times when a farmer will be required to carry out work from a height. If working at a height, below is a risk assessment checklist which must be carried out before partaking in such activities.
• Carrying out work from
underneath instead of at height has been assessed.
• The roof structure, strength
and condition is known before work starts.
• All roofing materials are assessed before work starts and as work progresses.
• Rooflights which may have been obscured by paint are identified.
• Any repairs carried out in the
past are identified, especially if fragile roof sheets have been used for ‘patching’ an otherwise non-fragile roof.
• Deterioration of supports and rusting of metal roof sheets is identified.
• Wood wool slabs which may have been weakened by water damage are identified.
• Power is isolated in any overhead electric cables close to the
roof work.
• A safe system of work and necessary precautions are put in place before work starts.
• Only competent persons are
involved with carrying out the work
at height.
• Edge protection, fall protection
including scaffolding and harnesses are inspected and
used correctly.
• Safe means of access is provided via ladders, scaffolds and /or other equipment.
• Roof openings and fragile roof lights are identified and suitably covered or guarded.
• Roof is not overloaded and materials are secured.
• Properly designed roofing ladders and crawling boards are used on sloping roofs.
• Materials or equipment are not thrown or dropped from the roof.
• Unauthorised access to the roof is prevented.
• Work at height is only carried out when weather conditions do not pose a risk.
• Personal protective equipment is used, including non-slip footwear and safety harnesses.
• Emergency and rescue plans are in place.
Identify, assess and control hazards
FARM SAFELY HANDBOOK 19