Unprotected leading edges, holes and openings pose a serious safety hazard. Under no circumstances shall unprotected holes and openings deviate from the requirements of this practice.
Leading edges, holes and openings shall be protected by covering or the installation of guardrails that will physically restrain personnel near the opening. Under no circumstances shall flagging, ropes, movable barricades or other barriers that do not provide a physical restraint be used as protection for leading edges, dangerous holes, and openings. This is the best practise we need to follow.
Temporary covers shall be capable of supporting a minimum of 2.4 kN/m2 (kilonewtons per square metre) or (50 lb./ft.2) or a greater load of intended workers, tools and equipment if required. All covers shall be constructed to support four times the load likely to be imposed upon it. Temporary covers shall be secured, shall have markings (e.g., “Danger- Open Hole”) to indicate the hazard and instructions that an alternate means of protection be provided if removed.
Temporary guardrails can protect against the hazard while still allowing the opening to be seen. When unsure, the installation of temporary covers and guardrails shall follow the requirements of the scaffold procedure, including toe boards and tagging. Workers installing temporary covers, guard rails or required to work in proximity to a dangerous hole or opening for the removal of installation of equipment shall be protected by fall arrest systems at all times (e.g., maintain 100% tie off).
Dangerous holes and openings shall not be left unprotected when unattended under any circumstances.
Last but not the list A JSA is required for tasks that involve fall hazards created by leading edge work, holes or openings on elevation.
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