Many contractors in the construction and warehousing industries need to work at heights. Although it is a risky job, working at heights is unavoidable in most projects. Seasoned experts know how to stay safe at worksites. But beginners working in the same fields should undergo training. They must also wear protective gear to avoid severe injuries.
Let’s discuss the importance of a beginner-first approach, which guarantees workplace safety.
Lack of experience – The major reason behind workplace accidents
Workplace injuries and accidents have become a big concern in most places. Novice workers in the construction field have a higher risk of height-related injuries. However, it does not mean they have been reckless during their working hours. The main problem is that they lack proper training. They do not know about the static line fall prevention and other protection systems.
So, it is essential to consider beginners while creating safety protocols. This approach will reduce their risks at the worksite.
Gaps in the training program for experts
A standard safety training session should allow trainees to learn about:
- Anchor points
- Harnesses
- Scaffolding
Some workers may not know how to assess a harness and find structural issues with scaffolding.
Therefore, hands-on activities and visual training are crucial for every contractor working at height.
Realistic on-site simulations during the training session will provide a better concept. The best trainers impart knowledge in comprehensible language and remove confusion.
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User-friendly gear for novices
Modern fall protection systems have an advanced design, but they are not always very intuitive. Experienced workers might understand the complex lanyard clip system. However, beginners will fail to do so. Thus, safety gear must be clearly marked and easily wearable. It should have an intuitive and error-resistant design to prevent misuse and potential risks.
A safety culture for beginners
Most novices working from heights have some questions, such as:
- Is there any safer approach?
- Should I use a lanyard clip?
Open communication with experienced workers will help beginners solve their queries. It will also lead to the continual improvement of beginners’ skills.
Also, a safety-first mindset needs to be nurtured from the beginning. It facilitates the development of a long-term culture of vigilance. Thus, workers should undergo proper training from the first day.
Ensure psychological readiness and legal compliance
Employers working at heights should understand their legal obligations. The training program should comply with safety regulations.
However, psychological readiness is another important factor for trainees. Some beginners experience fear when they work at a significant height. With this in mind, they should undergo structured training to gain confidence and improve competence.
The safety cultures at worksites should prioritise both beginners and experienced workers. Organisations should make protocols to ensure new workers’ safety. Clearer and safer protocols will help novices gain confidence. It is also essential to invest in static line fall prevention systems and other protective gear.
All in all, the expert’s supervision during training is important for refining the beginners’ skills. Thus, create a plan for employers who need to work from heights.
