Working at Height With Tools

Working at height presents unique risks on offshore installations. A dropped tool can cause severe injury or death to personnel below, and losing control of tools while climbing or positioned in awkward spaces can cause serious accidents.

This lesson covers essential safe practices for handling tools at height.

1. Understanding the Risks

• Dropped Objects

One of the leading causes of offshore injuries.

• Loss of Balance

Using tools from unstable positions increases fall risk.

• Limited Support

Hands may be needed to maintain balance, leaving fewer points of contact for tool control.

• Reduced Reaction Time

If a tool slips, there is little chance to recover it safely.

2. Tool Lanyards and Tethering

Mandatory Requirements

All tools used at height must be:

• Lanyarded
• Secured
• Attached to harnesses or tool belts

Types of Tethers

• Retractable tool lanyards
• Coil-type tethers
• Fixed-length straps
• Tool holsters with retention systems

Proper Use

• Attach lanyard to tool AND secure anchor point
• Ensure the lanyard does not interfere with tool operation
• Never wrap lanyards around hands or body

3. Safe Handling While Climbing

• Maintain 3 points of contact at all times
• Carry tools in tool bags, not in hands
• Use lift bags or tag lines to raise/lower tools
• Never throw tools up or down between decks

4. Work Positioning at Height

Stability

• Ensure proper footing
• Use harness anchor points when required
• Maintain correct body alignment

Control

• Keep tools close to the body
• Avoid overreaching or leaning out
• Reposition instead of stretching

5. Preventing Dropped Objects

• Inspect tools for secure attachment points
• Ensure tool bags have zippers or closures
• Keep work area organized
• Use secondary retention for critical tools
• Never place tools on edges or open surfaces

6. Communication and Exclusion Zones

Communication

• Inform ground crew when working overhead
• Agree on signals for stopping or pausing work

Exclusion Zones

• Establish a restricted area beneath the work site
• Use barriers or tape to prevent access
• Assign a spotter if needed

7. Emergency Response for Dropped Objects

If a tool is dropped:

1. STOP work immediately
2. Inform supervisor or deck coordinator
3. Check for injuries
4. Retrieve or report the dropped object
5. Inspect tool for damage
6. Review and adjust work method if needed

Key Takeaways

• Dropped tools are one of the top offshore hazards
• All tools at height must be tethered
• Maintain 3 points of contact while climbing
• Use proper tool bags and lifting methods
• Always establish exclusion zones below