Reg 78 — Manage the risk of a fall
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Identify any task where a person could fall (not only above 2 m).
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Apply the hierarchy: eliminate the need to work at height where possible; if not, prevent the fall; if not, use work-positioning; if not, use fall-arrest.
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Keep records of your risk assessment, chosen controls and residual risk.
Reg 79 / 79A — Specific controls and openings
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Edges/voids: Use guardrails, barriers, or covers; secure and sign.
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Fragile surfaces: Prohibit access or provide engineered walkways, platforms or fall-prevention.
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Access: Temporary stairs/platforms should meet rated capacity and stability; fixed access must align with AS 1657.
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Openings: Covers must be fit for load and secured against displacement.
Reg 80 — Emergency and rescue
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A documented, practicable rescue plan is required wherever fall-arrest may be used.
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Provide rescue equipment and ensure it’s serviceable and accessible.
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Rehearse at reasonable intervals and record the drill.
What good evidence looks like (for audits and tenders)
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Asset register with unique IDs, locations, install dates, ratings, and recert cycles.
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Inspection/recert reports with photos, defect codes, risk rating and due-by dates.
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Manufacturer evidence for anchors/static lines (specs, test basis, limits).
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Rescue plan pack: method, equipment list, team roles, call-out and practice log.