Dropped Objects
Prevention Safety Nets

1. Wire clamps must be of the correct number and sized to the dimensions of the wire
2. It is a requirement that wire clamps are assembled, inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s user manual / maintenance instructions
3. Bull-dog style clamps should not be used

All portable equipment used where there is a risk of the equipment falling to an underlying level must be secured against being dropped

• Carrying pouches must always be used for radios and any other portable equipment without certified securing points
• Locks on pouches must have a double securing mechanism to prevent unintentional opening
• Belt clips that allow equipment to become detached when turned 180º should not be used
  Belts with snap fasteners are not suitable for securing equipment at height
• Battery compartments and covers on portable equipment must be secured to prevent internal components from falling.

Remember even small items falling from significant heights can cause injury and distractions. Ensure all personal equipment (tally books, pens, calipers, cameras, water bottles etc.) is secure in a fastened pocket or carry pouch. If the item is not required for the task, do not carry it at height – leave it at ground level.

• All use of heavy tools and hand-held machinery where equipment may fall to an underlying level must be risk assessed
• All heavy tools and hand-held machinery used at height must be secured against being dropped, both when in use and while being transported
• Securing points for tools and machinery must be in place above the work site, attached to the surrounding structure, not to scaffolding
• Tools heavier than 2kg should not be secured to the body, secure them to the adjacent worksite structure
• One piece sledge hammers (forged construction with secured head) should be used at height
• The attachment points / devices on tools shall be documented and all securing wires inspected in accordance with the manufacturers recommendation
• The securing wire must be as short as possible to reduce shock loading effect
  Energy absorbing lanyards and tethers can stretch beyond the safe calculations or drop distance, therefore fixed securing wires should be used on heavy tools at height, according to the work environment
• Only certified lifting equipment shall be used as securing devices (where appropriate)
  Tools used at height should be checked out / in (see Page 54) to ensure that nothing is left behind.

• The choice of equipment to be used must be made after evaluating the work place environment
• Established control procedures must be followed before, during and after use
  Anyone using personal protective equipment against falls from height must have documented training (including rescue method training)
• Nobody shall work alone or unattended when using fall arrest equipment
• Everyone involved in the work scope must have sufficient training and awareness of the equipment and safety procedures
• A ‘Buddy’ check of all fall arrest, rigging and other equipment must be carried out
• The necessary rescue equipment and trained personnel must always be available at the workplace
• Fall arrest equipment must have CE approval, incorporate an anti-trauma safety device and comply with an accepted standard
• The equipment shall be checked EVERY TIME before use and must be checked at least every 6 months by a competent person
• The date for next inspection must be clearly shown on the equipment
• The anchor point for suspension must be rated to 5000 lbs (22kN) – OSHA.