Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of injury and death on construction sites. Yet, most incidents have something in common: they could have been prevented.
Whether you’re a site manager, safety officer, or contractor, one thing should be on your daily tool list — a Working at Height Safety Checklist that covers more than just harnesses and helmets.
At The Training Academy, we’ve created a free, downloadable checklist designed specifically for construction teams in South Africa. It’s quick to use, easy to customise, and built to meet real-world site conditions.
Why You Need a Working at Height Checklist
Every construction project that involves scaffolding, ladders, elevated platforms, or roof work carries serious risk. Without clear protocols, assumptions creep in:
- Was the fall arrest system checked?
- Is the rescue plan in place?
- Has everyone been trained and briefed?
A checklist puts safety back in focus — and gives your team a standard to follow every time. It’s also useful for internal audits, pre-task planning, and compliance with OHS regulations.
According to the South African Department of Employment and Labour, employers must ensure fall protection systems are in place when working at height — and prove that all reasonable steps were taken to prevent accidents.
What’s Inside the Checklist?
This isn’t a generic form. It’s built from the field, based on what actually fails on real sites:
✅ Fall Protection Setup (restraint, arrest, anchor points)
✅ Planning & Supervision (risk assessments, work permits, emergency rescue plans)
✅ Training & Worker Competency
✅ Ladders, Scaffolds & Access Platforms
✅ Tool Safety & PPE Requirements
✅ Final Pre-Work Checks (lighting, signs, barriers, rescue equipment)
It’s designed to take minutes — but could prevent months of regret.
If you’re unsure what qualifies as compliant PPE or fall arrest systems, the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) provides clarity on product testing and certification.
Who Should Use It?
- Site supervisors doing daily checks
- Safety officers preparing documentation
- Construction companies training new staff
- Contractors working on high-risk structures
The checklist can also support your team’s Working at Height training by helping reinforce correct procedures on-site.
Download the Free PDF Checklist
Ready to take your site safety up a level?
👉 Download the Working at Height Safety Checklist (PDF)
It’s free, practical, and ready to use — whether you’re following Construction Regulations 2014 or preparing for your next inspection.
Need Height Safety Training?
The Training Academy offers fully accredited Working at Height training across South Africa — from East London to Cape Town and beyond. Visit our Height Safety Training page for more information or to book a session.
Stay safe. Stay compliant. And never work at height without a plan.