Measures to Eliminate Risks When Working at Height

Risk Management When Working at Height: From Theory to Practice

Working at height traditionally remains one of the most dangerous areas in production. The statistics are relentless: every third accident with severe consequences is associated with a fall. In this context, the transition from formal compliance with rules to the implementation of practical protection tools becomes not just a trend, but a vital necessity. Ekaterina Kraskova, Industrial Risk Management Manager at JSC Olcon (the mining division of Severstal), shares her experience in implementing three key initiatives that allowed the enterprise to reduce the number of incidents when working at height to zero.

Organization of a Ladder Testing Area

The starting point for implementing the first initiative was an accident in 2023, when a worker was injured due to a faulty ladder. An unscheduled inspection revealed a systemic problem: the use of untested scaffolding and ladders. A specialized area was created to solve this problem.

• What was done: A testing stand was purchased, a testing methodology was developed, and responsible personnel were appointed. The process includes visual inspection, stand testing, tagging of serviceable ladders, and disposal of defective ones.
• Why it is important: Centralized control eliminates the use of faulty equipment in the workplace.
• How it works: The cost of the stand was about 491 thousand rubles. Out of 346 tested ladders, 32 were rejected. This means preventing 32 potential injuries. Since the implementation of this practice, no cases of injuries due to ladders have been recorded.

Implementation of Anchor Systems

An analysis of the causes of falls showed that the problem often lies in the incorrect selection or absence of protective equipment. The speaker analyzes the approach to the systematic equipping of workplaces with anchor lines.

• What was done: A risk assessment was carried out directly at the workplaces. 26 locations requiring equipment were identified, of which 14 critical ones were equipped first. Various types of systems were used: stationary, L-shaped, rolling, and mobile.
• Why it is important: Anchor systems provide continuous fall protection for the worker during ascent, movement, and descent, and also restrict access to hazardous areas.
• How it works: Together with experts from a contracting organization, the equipment was selected individually for each location. Investments amounted to about 21 million rubles. The result is the complete elimination of falls from height at the industrial site since 2022.

Training Ground for Practical Skills

Inspections revealed a low level of knowledge among both line managers and workers, including contractors. Over a short period, many dangerous conditions and actions were recorded.

• What was done: A training ground was organized. A two-day training program (theory and practice) was developed, and methodological guidelines were issued. The training is conducted by qualified instructors.
• Why it is important: Theoretical knowledge is not enough for safe work. Workers must be able to use PPE and act in non-standard situations, including the evacuation of a victim.
• How it works: Both full-time employees and contractors undergo training. Real scenarios are practiced at the training ground, including the evacuation of a worker suspended on a harness. Practice shows a significant reduction in violations during inspections.

What you will learn from this webinar:

• How to organize a ladder testing area with minimal costs and eliminate the use of faulty equipment?
• What algorithm to use to select and implement anchor systems for various production locations?
• How to organize an effective training ground for practical training in working at height?
• How to practice the skills of evacuating a victim suspended on a safety harness in practice?