Falling objects

Storage platforms/racking to be suitably designed so they can safely withstand the required loading. Designs are to be checked in accordance with our Temporary Works policy.

Materials, tools and equipment stored or used at height are to remain inside edge protection measures provided (i.e., toeboards, brickguards.)

Review storage of vulnerable materials, tools and equipment when severe weather is forecast - relocate or robustly secure as appropriate.

Loading bays shall be fitted with double guardrail up and over scaffold loading bay gates that when open prevent access to the loading platform during loading operations, and fully protect operatives from the exposed edge and prevent falls of operatives and/or materials when closed.

Loading bay gates are to be fully meshed and fitted in accordance with manufacturers assembly instructions - the use of brickguards on loading bay gates is not permitted.

Falling object protection on loading/landing bays is to be established using scaffold boards or compatible proprietary mesh guarding fitted in accordance with manufacturers’ assembly instructions. The use of brickguards on loading/landing bays for this purpose is strictly prohibited.

Edge protection around loading bays should be increased in height to match materials being landed/stored to ensure materials are not above the top guardrail.

Persons must be excluded from the base of loading bays whilst it is being loaded.

Access points and staircases should be sited away from loading bays, or additional protection put in place to protect them.

Pedestrian routes should be so arranged that walking directly below the loading area is not possible to avoid injury from falling materials.

Gaps in platform boarding are to be kept to a minimum.

Platforms are to be positioned as close as is practical to the structure to suit the works in progress.

Access underneath a platform should be restricted or controlled to prevent persons being struck by loose material or debris falling from above.

Avoid leaving materials, tools and equipment at height when the site is closed, especially at weekends and during holiday periods.

If materials are left at height, they must be properly secured so they cannot be blown off in high wind.

Fire retardant debris netting/sheeting complying with Loss Prevention Standard LPS 1215, is to be installed to areas of scaffold adjacent to site boundaries, public spaces, roads, footpaths and any areas accessed by the general public.

Uncontrolled dropping of materials, waste, tools etc. from height is strictly prohibited.