Baseline Training ventured across the ditch to Papua New Guinea  recently to deliver training to the bMobile/Vodafone team. Mal Stewart, one of our senior trainers went to PNG to deliver Working at Heights training to 20 of their staff.  All successfully completed the training to gain RIIWHS204D – Work Safely at Heights qualifications, ensuring that they remain competent to Australian standards.

During the training it was observed all trainees had a sound knowledge of working at heights however it was highlighted they were not following what would be considered safe work practices. 2 examples are, free climbing towers to gain access to work platforms and not conducting a formal Risk Assessment prior to each task that involved working at heights. All trainees had a basic understanding of the Risk Assessment process however there was limited knowledge on how to develop a Risk Assessment.

Some of the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), harnesses and lanyards, being used for working at heights activities did not meet the required under the AS/NZS 1891. Although they are in good repair and well maintained the markings/labelling falls short as there is no “Date of Manufacture” (DOM) embossed onto the harnesses. This is a requirement under the standard. This is also the case for the Pole Strop provided as there are no markings at all.

The feedback was great from all the trainees and management staff on the content and the relevance of the training and pleased with the training outcome and the knowledge and skills gained. Great awareness was created on ensuring workers are not exposed to significant risk when involved in Working at Heights activities with an emphasis on zero injuries.