RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights

• RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights

RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights

The RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights course is a nationally recognised training program designed for workers in the construction, mining, and resources industries. Delivered over one full day in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, this course equips participants with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to identify, assess, and manage the risks associated with working at height.

At OHSA, our training goes beyond simple theory; we focus on the hands-on application of the Hierarchy of Control and the correct use of modern fall protection systems. Whether you are a tradesperson, site supervisor, or safety officer, this course ensures you meet your legal obligations under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (QLD) and relevant Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1891).

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon successful completion of the RIIWHS204E unit, participants will be able to:

• Identify Work Requirements: Access and interpret technical safety documentation, site procedures, and work instructions.
• Risk Management: Conduct thorough hazard identification and implement control measures before commencing work.
• Equipment Selection & Inspection: Select, inspect, and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE), including full-body harnesses, lanyards, and connectors.
• Anchor Systems: Identify, select, and install compliant anchorage points and lifelines.
• Safe Work Procedures: Demonstrate the correct use of fall restraint, work positioning, and fall arrest systems.
• Access Systems: Apply safe techniques for using ladders, scaffolding, and elevated work platforms (EWP).
• Calculations: Calculate fall clearance distances to ensure safety in the event of a fall.
• Emergency Response: Understand and follow emergency procedures, including awareness of rescue planning and suspension intolerance.

Who Should Attend this Training?

This course is essential for any personnel required to perform work in an environment where there is a risk of injury from a fall. It is specifically designed for:

• Construction & Trades: Roofers, builders, electricians, plumbers, and painters.
• Maintenance & Infrastructure: Solar installers, telecommunications technicians, and window cleaners.
• Mining & Resources: Operators and maintenance crews working on plant and equipment.
• Supervisory Roles: Site supervisors and WHS officers are responsible for overseeing work at heights and signing off on permits.
• General Industry: Any worker using ladders, scaffolding, or elevated work platforms (EWP) at heights above 2 meters.

Working at Heights Course Content

Our comprehensive 1-day program translates complex legislation into practical site skills. The RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights program covers all critical aspects of the National Model WHS Regulations and AS/NZS 1891 standards:

THEORY & REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

• Legislation & Compliance Framework: An introduction to the WHS Act & Regulations and AS/NZS 1891 standards to ensure you understand your legal “Duty of Care.”
• Hazard Identification & Risk Management: Learn to identify potential fall hazards and implement robust Risk Assessments and Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS).
• The Hierarchy of Control: A deep dive into prioritising fall prevention over fall arrest to minimise workplace injury.
• Physics of a Fall: Understanding fall distances, Calculating Fall Clearance, and managing the mechanics of “Force” during a fall event.

EQUIPMENT & SYSTEMS

• Equipment Selection & Inspection: Choosing and checking the correct harness, lanyard, and connectors for specific tasks.
• Anchorage Systems: How to identify, select, and inspect certified anchor points (fixed and temporary) for maximum security.
• Harnesses & Personal PPE: Professional training in the selection, fitting, and mandatory pre-use inspection of full-body harnesses and work-positioning belts.
• Advanced Fall Protection Hardware: Practical use of lanyards, inertia reels, energy absorbers, and static lines.
• Fall Arrest vs. Fall Restraint: Distinguishing between systems that prevent a fall and those designed to arrest a fall safely.

PRACTICAL SKILLS & SAFETY

• Safe Access Techniques: Best practices for accessing high-risk areas using ladders, scaffolding, and elevated work platforms (EWP).
• Practical Application: Hands-on training in the correct fitting of harnesses, installation of anchor points, and safe ladder use.
• Emergency & Rescue Awareness: Vital training on Suspension Intolerance (Trauma) and the development of established rescue plans.
• Housekeeping & Maintenance: Post-task procedures, including safe disposal of damaged materials and correct equipment storage.

Entry Requirements & Prerequisites

To ensure student safety and compliance with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the following requirements apply:

• Identification: A valid photo ID (Driver’s License or Passport) must be presented on the day.
• USI: A verified Unique Student Identifier (USI) is mandatory for certificate issuance.
• Language & Literacy: Participants should have sufficient English skills to read safety signs, interpret regulations, and complete a written assessment.
• Physical Fitness: Participants must have the physical capacity to climb ladders, wear a harness, lift up to 20kg infrequently from the ground to overhead and access heights above 2m, and perform tasks at height during practical simulations.
• Prerequisites: There are no formal unit prerequisites for RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights.

AGE REQUIREMENT

• Participants must be 18 years or older to enrol in any of our safety training programs.
• OHSA does not provide training for individuals under the age of 18.

VISA STATUS

Students must not be on a student visa or be the partner of someone on a student visa.

FITNESS FOR DUTY & CLASSROOM POLICY

Safety starts in the classroom. No student will be permitted to undertake the course or any session if they are impaired. This includes being under the influence of alcohol, illegal/illicit substances, or experiencing impairment from prescribed medication, or severe fatigue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is the RIIWHS204E unit nationally recognised? Yes. RIIWHS204E is a nationally accredited unit of competency from the Resources and Infrastructure Industry Training Package. Your Statement of Attainment is valid on worksites throughout Australia.
• How long does a Work Safely at Heights ticket last? While your Statement of Attainment does not legally expire, industry best practice (and the Working at Height Association) strongly recommends completing a refresher course every 2 years. Most principal contractors and mine sites will mandate a current ticket (less than 2 years old) for site access.
• Do I need a White Card before taking this course? No, a White Card is not a prerequisite to enrol in the Work Safely at Heights training. However, you will need a White Card if you intend to perform your height work on an active construction site.
• What is the difference between Fall Restraint and Fall Arrest?

Fall Restraint: A system setup that physically prevents you from reaching an unprotected edge where a fall could occur.
Fall Arrest: A system designed to safely catch and stop you after a fall has already occurred. Our training covers the safe, correct application of both systems.

• What are the physical requirements for the training? Because this is a hands-on, practical course, participants must have the physical capacity to climb ladders, wear a full-body safety harness, lift up to 20kg infrequently, and perform tasks safely at heights above 2 metres.
• Will I receive my certification on the same day? Yes! Upon successful completion of both the theory and practical assessments, you will receive your nationally recognised Statement of Attainment on the exact same day, making you immediately site-ready.
• What do I need to bring to the training facility? You must bring a valid photo ID (such as an Australian Driver’s Licence or Passport) and have your verified Unique Student Identifier (USI) ready. For the practical components, you must wear enclosed, slip-resistant footwear (steel-cap safety boots preferred) and comfortable work clothing.
• Is there an age requirement to take the course? Yes. Due to the high-risk nature of the training, all participants must be at least 18 years of age to enrol.
• Does the course cover emergency rescue?
  The training covers vital emergency procedures and rescue awareness. This includes how to develop a safe rescue plan and manage the severe risks of suspension trauma (suspension intolerance). Please note: Performing an active heights rescue requires a separate, specialised unit of competency.
• Do I need strong English skills to pass? Participants must have sufficient language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) skills to read hazard signs safely, interpret workplace regulations, complete the written theory assessment, and communicate clearly with their team in English.