Working at Heights Register
A Working at Heights Register is a formal record keeping tool used to track height safety equipment inspections, worker training, and risk assessments. It helps Australian businesses comply with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Regulations.
A logbook used to record the inspection and maintenance of height safety equipment and workers operating at heights to ensure compliance with Australian WHS laws.
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About this Document
A Working at Heights Register is a vital document for any Australian business or tradesperson who performs tasks where a fall could cause injury. This includes working on roofs, scaffolding, ladders, elevated platforms, or near edges. Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Model Codes of Practice, a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must manage the risks of working at heights. This register serves as the central record for risk assessments, training certifications, equipment inspections, and safe work method statements. It proves to Safe Work inspectors that you are actively managing safety. This guide explains how to set up and use this register effectively to keep your workers safe and your business compliant.
When you work at heights in Australia, the law is strict. Falls are a leading cause of death in the construction and trades industries. The Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 require specific control measures. You must use the hierarchy of controls. This means you try to eliminate the risk first. If you cannot, you must use fall prevention devices like scaffolding or guard rails. If those are not practical, you use work positioning systems like travel restraint systems. As a last resort, you use fall arrest systems like safety harnesses. Your Working at Heights Register tracks exactly which controls you use and when. It is not just a formality. It is a legal record that shows you have followed the correct steps to protect life.
The register acts as a living document. It is not something you fill out once and forget. You must update it every time a worker starts a job at heights, every time you buy new equipment, and every time you inspect your gear. Australian Standards, specifically AS/NZS 1891.4 for industrial fall arrest systems, require regular inspections of equipment. Your register should list every item of height safety equipment. This includes harnesses, lanyards, anchor points, and ladders. For each item, you record the purchase date, the unique serial number, and the inspection history. If an inspector visits your site, they will ask to see this history. If you cannot produce it, you face hefty fines or prosecution.
Training is another critical part of the register. You cannot legally allow a worker to operate at heights unless they have completed the required training units. In Australia, this usually means the unit of competency RIIWHS204D or CPCPCMHS3011A. Your register must list every worker who works at heights. You must keep copies of their statements of attainment and their refresher dates. High risk work licences might also be needed for operating certain lifts like scissor lifts or boom lifts. The register ensures you never send an unqualified worker up a ladder. It helps you manage when training is about to expire so you can book refresher courses.
Risk management is the core of the register. Before any work starts, you must assess the site. This involves filling out a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for high risk construction work. The SWMS identifies the hazards, the risks, and the control measures. Your register should reference the specific SWMS for each job. It should also record the specific height at which the work occurs. If the work is above two metres, the regulations are very specific. However, falls can happen from any height. Best practice is to use the register for any work where a fall is possible, even under two metres.
You need to understand the specific legislation that applies to your state or territory. While the WHS Act is model legislation, some states like Victoria have their own Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004. The principles are similar, but you must check your local laws. The Working at Heights Register helps you standardise your paperwork across different borders. If you work in New South Wales and Queensland, the register keeps your records consistent. This is vital if you are audited by Safe Work NSW or Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.
Completing the register requires attention to detail. You should include columns for the date of the activity, the location of the worksite, and the names of the workers involved. You must record the type of work being performed. You should list the specific equipment used for that job. This includes serial numbers of harnesses and lanyards used by each worker. This level of detail is . If an incident occurs, you can trace back exactly which gear was in use. This protects you legally if the gear was faulty and the manufacturer is at fault. It also protects you if the gear was correctly maintained but used incorrectly.
Common mistakes to avoid include generic record keeping. Do not just write 'roof work'. You must specify 'replacing tile clips on residential roof at 4 metre height'. Another mistake is failing to record pre-start inspections. Workers must check their gear before every use. This includes checking for frayed webbing, damaged buckles, or rusty gate mechanisms. The register should have a section for daily pre-use checks. If you rely only on six monthly formal inspections, you miss the daily wear and tear that causes accidents. Another error is forgetting to register temporary equipment. If you hire a scissor lift for a day, it goes in the register. You must inspect it before you use it.
The register also links to your emergency procedures. If a worker falls, you need to know exactly where they are and what equipment they are using. Your register should include a section for emergency contact details and rescue plans. A fall arrest system is useless if you cannot rescue the suspended worker quickly. Suspension trauma can kill a worker in less than 30 minutes. Your register must list the rescue equipment available on site, such as a ladder or a second lowering device. It must record who is responsible for the rescue.
Keeping the register digital is often the best approach. Paper books get lost, damaged, or left in the ute. A digital system allows you to set reminders for equipment inspections and training renewals. It also makes it easy to export reports for an auditor. However, if you use paper, you must keep it in a secure place on site. The site supervisor must be responsible for updating it. You must not leave it to the workers to fill out voluntarily. Supervision is key to compliance.
Legal requirements also extend to contractors. If you hire a subcontractor to work at heights, you must ensure they have their own safe systems of work. You should ask to see their register or proof of training before they start. You have a duty of care under the WHS Act to ensure that other people at your workplace are not put at risk by the subcontractor's work. Recording the contractor's details and insurance in your register shows you have done your due diligence.
This document is not just about avoiding fines. It is about culture. A good register shows your team that you take safety seriously. When workers see you logging their training and checking their gear, they feel valued. They are more likely to follow procedures themselves. Safety becomes a habit rather than a chore. In the event of a serious incident, Safe Work investigators will seize your records. A complete and accurate Working at Heights Register can be the difference between a routine investigation and a criminal negligence charge.
In summary, the Working at Heights Register is a tool for risk management. It covers people, plant, and procedure. It records the competency of your team. It tracks the condition of your gear. It documents the planning for every risky task. It is a requirement under the Model Code of Practice for Managing the Risk of Falls in Housing Construction. It applies to renovations, maintenance, and new builds. Whether you are a tiler, a plumber, an electrician, or a painter, if you go up, you must register. It covers residential housing where the fall height is over two metres. It covers commercial work where the fall height is over three metres. It covers tower work and shaft work. The scope is broad. The stakes are high. Using this register correctly is the best way to ensure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day.
Key Facts
- PCBUs must manage risks of falls, including maintaining a register of control measures.— Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth)
- Falls from heights are a leading cause of workplace fatalities in Australia.— Safe Work Australia
- Specific inspection intervals for height safety equipment are outlined in AS/NZS 1891.4.— Standards Australia / AS/NZS 1891.4
- A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is required for high risk construction work involving heights over 2 metres.— Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth)
- Workers must complete nationally recognised training units like RIIWHS204D to work at heights.— Safe Work Australia Model Code of Practice
- Employers must monitor the health of workers and keep records of training.— Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth)
- Hierarchy of controls must be applied, starting with elimination, before using fall arrest systems.— Safe Work Australia
Sources
Required Sections
Equipment Register
A log of all height safety gear including purchase dates, serial numbers, and inspection history.
Equipment Register
| ID | Description | Manufacturer | Serial Number | Date of Manufacture | Last Inspection Date | Next Inspection Date | Inspector Name | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WH-001 | Full Body Harness (Class A) | SafeWork Gear | SWG-4599-A | 12/05/2021 | 15/11/2023 | 15/11/2024 | J. Smith | Serviceable |
| WH-002 | 2.0m Retractable Lanyard | Heightz Dynamics | HD-R2001 | 03/08/2022 | 03/08/2023 | 03/08/2024 | J. Smith | Serviceable |
| WH-003 | Mobile Anchor Point | RoofSafe Systems | RS-99-B | 20/01/2020 | 20/01/2024 | 20/01/2025 | B. Jones | Serviceable |
Maintaining the Register
Keeping this equipment register current is not just good practice, it is the law. Under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011, a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must manage the risks of a fall. For small business owners and tradies, this means you must ensure all height safety equipment is inspected by a competent person.
Specifically, AS/NZS 1891.4 is the Australian Standard that dictates the inspection of height safety equipment. You must carry out a detailed inspection of harnesses, lanyards, and anchorage devices at least every six months. If you use the equipment heavily, or in harsh environments like marine or industrial sites, you should inspect them more frequently.
For the register to be useful, you must record every inspection accurately. When you inspect a piece of gear, look for cuts, fraying, corrosion on metal parts, or any distortion in the hardware. If the gear passes the check, mark the status as Serviceable and update the Next Inspection Date. If you find any damage, immediately tag the item as 'Out of Service' and destroy it so it cannot be used again.
Do not forget to check the manufacturer's recommendations. Many harnesses and lanyards have a specific lifespan, often around ten years from the date of manufacture, regardless of how often they are used. Your register must include the Date of Manufacture so you can track when the gear needs to be retired.
Safe Work Australia requires that you provide information, training, and instruction to workers. This register helps you prove that your gear is safe to use. In the event of an incident, a SafeWork inspector will ask to see this register. If the dates are missing or the status is unknown, you risk significant fines.
Make it a habit to update this table on the same day you inspect the gear. Do not rely on memory. Write down the Serial Number and cross-check it against the manufacturer's tag. If a tag is missing or illegible, treat the equipment as non-compliant and remove it from service immediately. This level of detail protects your workers and your business licence.
Worker Training Records
Proof of competency for all workers who operate at heights.
Worker Training Records Table
| Worker Name | Job Role | Training Unit Code | Date Issued | Expiry Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Keeping Training Up to Date
You must verify that every worker entering a high-risk area holds the correct qualifications for the task. In Australia, working at heights is classified as high risk construction work. Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act), a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must ensure workers receive adequate training and supervision. Relying on verbal confirmation is insufficient. You must sight physical evidence of competency, such as a Statement of Attainment or a wallet card, and record those details here before work starts.
For general construction work, the mandatory requirement usually involves the unit of competency known as CPCCWHS1001. This unit covers preparing to work safely in the construction industry and is a prerequisite for obtaining a white card. However, working at heights often requires a specific and higher level of skill. You should look for the RIIWHS204E or CPCPCMHS3011 units. These codes specifically address working at heights or safely working at heights. Ensure the training certificate is current and issued by a registered training organisation (RTO).
Dates are critical for compliance. Many high-risk licences require renewal every five years, while Statements of Attainment for units like RIIWHS204E generally do not expire, but industry standards often demand refresher training every two years. If you employ subcontractors, ask for their current certificates. The WHS Regulations place the onus on you to ensure that anyone on your site is not 'immature' or lacking in experience for the specific height task.
This register acts as your first line of defence during a SafeWork inspection or audit. If an incident occurs, inspectors will request this document to prove you took all reasonably practicable steps to manage the risk. Ensure that every worker listed on this page has provided proof of their training and that you have checked the expiry date. An expired ticket creates a significant liability for the business owner. Schedule regular reviews, perhaps monthly or quarterly, to check that no worker is operating with expired credentials. Keep this register accessible on site or in the office for immediate reference by supervisors.
Daily Pre-Start Inspection
A checklist for workers to complete before starting work each day.
Daily Pre-Start Inspection
Equipment Checklist
Inspect all equipment before every use. If an item fails any check, tag it as 'Do Not Use' and remove it from service immediately.
Harness
- Webbing: No cuts, fraying, pulled stitches, or chemical damage.
- Stitching: Intact and secure with no broken or loose threads.
- D-rings: No cracks, corrosion, sharp edges, or distortion.
- Buckles: Adjust smoothly and lock securely. Look for cracked or missing teeth.
- Tongue/Bar: Free of cracks, sharp edges, or excessive wear.
- Impact Indicator: Not deployed or activated.
- Pads: Clean and securely attached.
Lanyard / Energy Absorber
- Webbing/Rope: No cuts, fraying, heat damage, or excessive wear.
- Shock Pack: Stitching is intact. The pack has not deployed (ripped).
- Connectors (Hooks/Carabiners): Gate closes freely and locks automatically. No corrosion, cracks, or burrs.
- Sway Brakes/Arrestors: Function correctly and are not damaged.
- Rope Grabs: Move freely along the line and lock when jerked.
Anchor Points
- Structure: Visually strong and capable of supporting the load.
- Connection: Securely attached to the designated anchor point.
- Edge Protection: Sharp edges are protected to prevent cutting the rope or lanyard.
- Mobile Anchors: Rated for the specific use and in good working order.
Helmet
- Shell: No cracks, deep scratches, or impact damage.
- Harness: Straps are not frayed or torn. Adjusters work.
- Chin Strap: Intact and buckles securely.
- Compatibility: Fits securely without interfering with the harness or vision.
Inspection Record
Date: ________________________________
Name: ________________________________
Signature: ________________________________
Detailed Inspection Requirements
Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Work Health and Safety Regulations, a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) must ensure that plant, including height safety equipment, is inspected and maintained. Specifically, Regulation 165 mandates that a PCBU must manage risks to health and safety associated with plant. This includes checking equipment before every shift.
You must inspect harnesses, lanyards, and helmets according to AS/NZS 1891.4: Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices - Selection, use and maintenance. This standard requires a detailed inspection by a competent person at intervals not exceeding six months, but it also demands a pre-use check by the worker every single day.
Check webbing for frayed edges or broken fibres. If the fibres are white or fluffing, the webbing is damaged. Look for heat marks or glazing, which weaken the fibres significantly. Chemical damage can show up as discolouration or a brittle texture.
Inspect metal hardware like D-rings and carabiners for sharp edges or rust. A hook with a broken latch or a stiff mechanism must be replaced. Do not try to repair it yourself. Look at the stitching on the harness and energy absorber. If the stitching has pulled or looks different from the rest, the equipment may have taken a shock load and is unsafe.
Pay close attention to the energy absorber pack on the lanyard. If the pack has ripped open or the stitching has torn, the lanyard has done its job once and is now useless. It must be thrown away.
Check your helmet. The sun degrades plastic over time. If the shell is faded, chalky, or cracked, replace it. Ensure the internal harness is not rotting and the chin strap works. A loose helmet falls off when you look down or slip.
If you find a fault, do not use the equipment. Tag it as 'Dangerous Do Not Use' and report it to your supervisor. Using damaged height safety gear is a breach of the Model Code of Practice: Managing the risks of falls in housing construction and puts your life at risk. Keep this register available for the duration of the project to demonstrate compliance during a site inspection.
Job Log and Risk Control
A record of specific jobs performed at heights and the controls used.
Job Log and Risk Control
Activity Register
| Date | Job Description | Height Involved | Control Measures Used | Workers Present |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Record Keeping Details
Accurate documentation is a mandatory requirement under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act) and the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (WHS Regulations). This section functions as your daily site record. It is not merely administrative paperwork. SafeWork Australia inspectors frequently request these registers during site visits to verify that duty holders are actively managing risks. If an incident occurs, this log serves as the primary evidence of your compliance with the Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Falls in Housing Construction.
The Hierarchy of Controls
You must record the specific control measures implemented for every task. The law requires you to work through the hierarchy of controls. You cannot simply list 'personal protective equipment' and consider the job safe. You must first attempt to eliminate the risk. If that is not possible, you must use the highest level of protection available.
Start by asking if the work can be done on the ground. If working at height is necessary, the next step is to use a fall prevention device. Record the use of passive fall prevention systems like scaffolding, perimeter guardrails, or safety mesh. These systems provide the highest level of safety because they do not rely on active worker participation. If you use scaffolding, note that it must be erected and altered by a licensed scaffolder where it exceeds four metres, and you must keep the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) accessible.
If a passive system is not reasonably practicable, you may use a work positioning system, such as an elevating work platform (EWP) with a harness. Record the specific type of plant used. Harnesses should only be recorded here if used in restraint mode to prevent a worker reaching a fall edge. Fall arrest systems, such as static lines, are a last resort. These must only be used when higher controls are not viable, and you must record the presence of a suitable rescue plan. Falling while suspended in a harness can cause suspension trauma, so a rescue procedure is critical.
Worker Responsibilities
List every worker present on site for the specific task. This ensures you can account for everyone during an emergency. It also confirms that all individuals have received the necessary site induction and training. Under the WHS Regulations, workers must complete the nationally recognised unit of competency for working at heights. Do not allow workers onto the roof or structure if their name is not recorded as inducted and competent.
Keep this log updated daily. If the scope of work changes or the height increases, you must reassess the risks and update the control measures immediately.
Optional Sections
Maintenance and Repair Log
Record of any faults found and the repairs or replacements made.
Maintenance and Repair Log
Keeping height safety equipment in good working order is not just good practice, it is the law under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act). If you own or manage a business where working at heights is required, you must ensure that plant and equipment are safe and without risks to health. This register serves as your official record of maintenance, repairs, and inspections. It is essential evidence that you are meeting your primary duty of care.
The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 specifically mandates that persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must ensure that specific equipment is inspected and maintained. For height safety equipment, this includes harnesses, lanyards, anchor points, ladders, and scaffolding. You must follow the relevant Australian Standards, such as AS/NZS 1891.4 for industrial fall arrest systems and devices, or AS/NZS 1576 for scaffolding. These standards outline how often inspections should happen and when equipment must be taken out of service.
When a worker identifies a fault, no matter how small, the item must be immediately removed from service to prevent accidental use. You must tag the item clearly as "Danger Do Not Use" or "Out of Service" until a competent person assesses the damage. This is a critical step. Using damaged height safety gear can lead to serious injury or death.
Use the table below to record every incident where equipment is found faulty and requires repair. Accurate record keeping protects your business. If an inspector from Safe Work Australia or a state regulator visits your site, they will ask to see these records. If you cannot prove that damaged equipment was repaired by a competent person or that it was inspected before being returned to use, you face heavy fines.
Ensure the "Description of Issue" is detailed. Instead of writing "broken strap," write "webbing torn on dorsal D-ring attachment." The "Who Repaired It" column must be filled out by someone qualified to do that specific work. For complex equipment like inertia reels or engineered anchor systems, repairs often require the original manufacturer or a specialised technician. Simple fixes done by untrained staff can void the equipment's certification and put lives at risk.
Finally, the "Date Returned to Service" confirms that a final inspection was passed. This date is your legal assurance that the equipment is safe again. Do not put equipment back on the truck or the shelf until this section is complete.
Maintenance and Repair Log
| Date Fault Identified | Item ID | Description of Issue | Who Repaired It | Date Returned to Service | Inspector Signature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Working at Heights Register?
When do I need a Working at Heights Register?
Is a Working at Heights Register legally required in Australia?
How often should I inspect height safety equipment?
What information must be recorded in the register?
Who is responsible for maintaining the register?
Can I keep the register electronically?
Does the register cover subcontractors?
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