Steel Erection at Height
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Steel Erection at Height
Steel erection at height involves positioning and fixing heavy structural members using cranes at significant elevations. Workers face falls from unprotected edges, being struck by swinging steelwork, and working on narrow beams before permanent platforms are installed. This talk covers the specific fall-from-height risks during steel erection and the controls that keep the erection team safe.
- Provide a safe working platform or man basket for all connection work at height where practicable.
- Use fall arrest harnesses with twin-tail lanyards connected to approved anchor points at all times.
- Attach tag lines to all steel members during crane placement to control swing and rotation.
- Install temporary bracing immediately after each member is positioned and before releasing the crane.
- Monitor wind speed and cease erection when conditions exceed the limits in the method statement.
- Brief the erection team on the day's sequence, connection details, and fall protection plan.
- Ensure exclusion zones are maintained beneath all erection activities on every lift.
- Check that all bolted connections are made to specification before moving to the next bay.
- Ensure rescue equipment is available on site in case a worker is suspended in a fall arrest harness.
If an erector falls and is suspended in a harness, activate the rescue plan immediately. Suspension trauma can become life-threatening within minutes. Lower the casualty to a safe surface, call 999, and monitor their condition.
- Use fall arrest harnesses with twin-tail lanyards connected to approved anchors at all times
- Tag lines must be attached to all steel members to control swing during crane placement
- Install temporary bracing immediately after positioning each member before releasing the crane
- Monitor wind speed and cease erection when the method statement limits are exceeded
- Rescue equipment must be available on site for harness suspension emergencies
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