S04 HSSRME 3 2020 safety at height_Layout 1 03/08/2020 12:04 Page 13
safety
Working in
leading edge applications Image Credit:Adobe Stock
Adhering to the relevant standards, following best practice, comprehensive training and selecting the right equipment for the job, are critical for safe edge working, says Tim Bissett, technical manager for fall protection at MSA Safety.
“Work in leading edge applications presents its own unique challenges and safety hazards.”
“L
Leading edge work should not be undertaken lightly.
ISSUE 3 2020 | www.hssreview.me
EADING EDGE” WORK or “edge working” is defined as working at any unprotected edge of a platform, floor, or other construction point where there is a risk that the lifeline a worker is using may come in contact with an exposed edge, or edge of the working surface. In many scenarios, leading edge applications occur when a worker is connected to an anchor point below their back D-ring, although it is also possible when anchor points are above this position.
Work in leading edge applications presents its own unique challenges and safety hazards, one of which is the greater risk of lifelines being frayed, cut, or severed on impact with the edge in the event of a fall. This is complicated further should the worker swing after falling, creating a pendulum-like motion. The friction this causes can increase the likelihood of the lifeline being cut or severed. These potential risks place a sharp focus on testing criteria within relevant standards, following best practice and
choosing the right equipment for the job.
Standards relating to leading edge work Before any leading edge work takes place, check that the equipment you’re using adheres to the relevant standards. Those that apply in the UK are:
PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 These regulations, which were first introduced in 2018, imposed additional requirements on manufacturers of PPE, including an assessment of the risks against
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