Working at Heights with a Static Line System

Static line systems are a fundamental component of many height safety systems. While these systems are robust and relatively user friendly, compliance with Australian standards, proper training and instruction, certification, and the right personal protective equipment (PPE) are all critical to keep your team safe and your site compliant. This guide outlines essential practices for safely using static line systems, helping users, supervisors, and Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) mitigate risks and comply with relevant safety legislation.

Safe Use of a Static Line System Checklist

1. Read the procedure manual and familiarise yourself with the specifics of the system.
2. Check PPE such as harnesses and lanyards are certified and fit for purpose. If PPE is not in a suitable condition or certification has lapsed a replacement must be obtained or work abandoned.
3. Check the system has been certified within the past 12 months on the system sign located at the point of entry. If the system has not been certified do not use it.
4. Check the system is in good condition, the rating of the system, and the last inspection date on the inspection tag. If the tag is missing or there are signs the system is not in optimal condition do not use it.
5. Attach your lanyard to the static line only via the approved shuttle for the specific system in use. Double-check that the shuttle is correctly connected to the cable and in the locked position.
6. Ensure the shuttle has been designed to provide continuous attachment eliminating the need to disconnect from the static line while working near a fall edge
7. Never assume your lanyard length is correct. Always check your safe working line length to ensure you are in fall restraint and can not access a fall edge or void.
8. Never detach from the line while near a fall edge or void unless you’re securely attached to another anchor point.

Download Checklist

Confirm Training and Competency

Under Australian Standard AS/NZS 1891.1, all intended users of static line systems must be both trained and deemed competent in their use. It is crucial that any person intending to use a static line system has proof of receiving appropriate training and of receiving adequate instruction and/or information on how to use the specific system safely.

Comprehensive Training: Workers must receive appropriate training from an accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that covers the correct use, limitations, and maintenance of static line systems. This training should include both theoretical knowledge and practical application. [Safe Work Australia – Training Requirements]t

Competency Assessment: Employers are responsible for verifying the competency of their workers. This includes maintaining records of training certifications and ensuring that training is up-to-date, especially when there are changes to the system or relevant regulations. [AS/NZS 1891.1: Industrial Fall-Arrest Systems and Devices]

Pro Tip: If someone lacks proof of training or is unfamiliar with the specific system on-site, reschedule the work until proper training is completed. Building owners and employers can be held liable if an untrained individual is injured due to incorrect system use.

Conduct a Pre-Use System Inspection

A static line system must be inspected and verified to be certified compliant and in good working order by a competent operator before each use. It’s not enough to simply trust that the static line is sound because it was fine last time. Before each use, take a few moments to:

1. Verify system certification: Check the system signage, inspection tag, or logbook to confirm it has been certified within the last 12 months (or 6 months in corrosive or harsh environments).
2. Look for signs of wear: Inspect cables, brackets, tensioners, anchors and fixings for rust, abrasion, or loose components.
3. Check the shuttle or traveller: Ensure it moves smoothly, locks correctly, and is appropriate to the specific system in use.

Assess Harness, Lanyards and Relevant PPE

A person using a static line system must have appropriate PPE including an appropriately fitted harness and lanyard that are free from defects and meets Australian standards. Operators of Travel8 static line systems must be connected via a lanyard with a personal energy absorber, in accordance with Australian Standard AS/NZS 1891.1.

It is required that any harnesses and lanyards used in a fall arrest or fall restraint system be inspected for any defects before each use. There are several elements you must review to ensure your PPE is fit for service. See our guide on How To Inspect Harnesses And Lanyards For Damage for more information on determining if your PPE is safe and compliant.

Know When to Stop Work

If you spot anything that raises a red flag including out-of-date certification, visible signs of damage, or untrained personnel, stop work! No deadline or budget is worth the risk to personal safety or the legal repercussions of being deemed non-compliant in the event of an injury or death. If you notice any issues with a static line or any other height safety system, notify the property owner, building manager, or safety supervisor immediately so they can arrange for the system to be recertified or repaired.

Remember: Safety is everyone’s responsibility. If in doubt, do not proceed.

Important resources

• Kattsafe Static Lines Manufacturers Guidelines
• Kattsafe Static Lines Technical Compliance Specifications