For companies that need practical OHS support, the goal is simple: make the risk clear, make the records easy to review and make the next action obvious.
Training must connect to the task
Working at heights training is strongest when it matches the exact work: roof work, ladders, scaffolds, platforms, maintenance access or construction activity.
The training evidence should sit alongside a task risk assessment and method statement, not separately in a file where supervisors never use it.
What clients usually look for
Clients and site auditors commonly check whether the team has the right training, the task has been assessed and fall prevention controls are planned before work starts.
- Task-based risk assessment.
- Fall protection plan or height work procedure.
- Equipment inspection records.
- Rescue and emergency arrangements.
- Supervisor monitoring and permit controls.
- Training attendance linked to the people on site.
Do not rely on PPE alone
Harnesses and lanyards matter, but they are not the whole control system. Employers should consider whether work can be avoided, done from the ground, guarded, planned with safer access or supervised differently.
Rescue planning is also critical because fall arrest equipment can create a time-sensitive emergency.
Use the file to prove readiness
For contractor and construction work, heights evidence should be easy to find in the safety file. The file should show the people, task, equipment, controls and emergency plan.
OHSCompliance can help align FALLTRAC training, HIRA records and site documentation.
Client audit readiness checklist
- Confirm the exact height task, access method and rescue arrangement.
- Check that FALLTRAC evidence matches the people performing the work.
- Link training to fall protection planning, equipment inspection and HIRA.
- Do not rely on training alone where method statements and rescue planning are required.
Documents to prepare before requesting a quote
| Document | Why it matters | Who owns it | When to update |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height work HIRA | Shows the task risk and control hierarchy. | Supervisor or risk assessor | Before every new height task |
| Fall protection plan or procedure | Explains prevention, protection and rescue arrangements. | Competent site lead | When work method or rescue options change |
| Equipment inspection record | Shows ladders, harnesses or access equipment are checked. | Supervisor or appointed inspector | Before use and at planned intervals |
| FALLTRAC attendance evidence | Shows exposed workers received relevant training. | Training coordinator | After learner changes or refreshers |
What clients usually check
Clients usually check whether height work has a task HIRA, planned access, equipment checks, trained people and rescue thinking before work starts.
Common mistakes
- Treating a harness as the whole control system.
- No rescue plan.
- Equipment checks missing or unsigned.
- Training records not linked to people on site.
When to update this record
Update height work evidence before new work at height, after equipment changes, when rescue arrangements change or after any fall-related incident.
Downloadable checklist
Download the Working at Heights checklist PDF for internal preparation before you request a quote or submit evidence to a client.
Useful training and support links
These internal pages connect the article topic to practical OHSCompliance training and documentation support:
- HIRA Risk Assessment Services South Africa
- FALLTRAC Fall from Heights Prevention and Protection
- CONREGS Construction Regulations
- HIRA Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment
Reference point: Construction Regulations 2014.
Request support
OHSCompliance can help with training, safety files, risk assessments, inspections and documentation support for South African workplaces. View the relevant service page or request a quote with your site type, work scope and deadline.