An inclined plane is a work environment that is slanted at an angle, like a sloping roof. These environments bring with them a unique set of challenges, as while it may be possible to stand on inclined planes, they are uneven and therefore present a higher risk of a fall.
Read on to find out how to stay safe while working on an inclined plane (and what equipment you’ll need to do so).
Working on an Inclined Plane: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Carry Out a Risk Assessment
Before beginning any work on an inclined plane, it is essential – according to The Work at Height Regulations 2005 – that you carry out a thorough risk assessment and make a method plan. In order to comply with these regulations, you must avoid unnecessary risks, such as working on an inclined plane in adverse weather conditions; rain, snow, ice and strong winds can all make a sloped work environment slippery and increase the risk of accidents.
It is also essential that you thoroughly inspect the area before starting any work, looking for signs of damage or structural issues. Plus, all workers should be properly trained to work safely on inclined planes where there is an increased risk of falling.
2. Install Edge Protection
When working on an inclined plane, you should install some kind of edge protection to prevent falls. Edge protection measures like guard rails, toe boards and safety nets can all be used to help mitigate the consequences of a fall and stop workers from accidentally stepping off the surface edge. Generally speaking, the steeper the incline, the stronger the edge protection needs to be (since gravity will be working harder against you).
3. Use Fall Arrest / Fall Restraint Systems
To work safely on an inclined plane, you must use some form of fall protection, such as a safety harness, lanyard and man anchor. By securing yourself to an anchorage point using a lanyard and harness, you can reduce your chances of sliding down the inclined surface and falling from height. If a fall should occur, a fall arrest harness will help to distribute the forces of the sudden stop and save you from injury.
It is also crucial that any tools and equipment you will be using are secured using a tool lanyard or tool bag to prevent them from falling and injuring someone below.
TOP TIP: When working on an inclined plane, try to keep your centre of gravity low and take slow, cautious steps to avoid losing your balance!
Following these inclined plane safety tips should stand you in good stead to work safely and securely on sloped surfaces.
If you have any further questions about how to safely work on an inclined plane or what tools and safety devices you may need, please don’t hesitate to contact Safety Harness Direct and a member of our team will be happy to help!
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