Stay safe at heights or in confined spaces

Manage risks when working at height 

Working at height means there's a risk of falling from one level to another, such as from a step ladder. To manage the risks, UQ has implemented the following controls: 

  1. Access to roofs and unprotected balconies is restricted and managed by Property and Facilities (P&F) 
  2. Tasks that can’t be done on a solid footing and rely on fall arrest systems are outsourced to qualified contractors 
  3. Training and competency are mandatory for UQ workers approved to work at height 
  4. Risk assessments must be completed for all height-related hazards 
  5. Construction work where someone could fall more than 2 metres requires a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). 

UQ’s Work at Height Management Plans outline the systems used to identify and control these risks: 

Stay safe in confined spaces 

Confined spaces are not designed for regular work and often have poor ventilation, which can quickly lead to hazardous conditions. Risks include exposure to fumes, gases, oxygen depletion, extreme temperatures, noise, manual handling injuries and slips or falls. For these reasons, confined space work is outsourced to specialist contractors – contact PF Assist for additional information. 

UQ’s Confined Spaces Management Plans provide detailed guidance on safe practices: