What Makes a Height Safety System Compliant?

1. Start with the Right Standards

Compliant height safety systems in Australia must align with key regulations and standards, including:

• AS 1657:2018 – Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders
• AS/NZS 1891 (Parts 1–4) – Fall-arrest systems and equipment
• AS/NZS 5532 – Requirements for single-point anchor devices
• AS 1319 – Safety signage standards

These standards govern everything from material selection and installation techniques to the safe use and maintenance of fall protection systems. If your system doesn’t meet these? It’s not compliant and potentially not safe.

💡 How Workplace Defender helps: All our systems including walkways, guardrails, static lines and anchor points are designed and installed in full compliance with AS/NZS standards and National Construction Code requirements.

2. Follow the Hierarchy of Control

Not all height safety systems are created equal. Australian WHS law requires that risks be managed using the hierarchy of control, starting with the most effective measures:

• Elimination – Avoid working at heights wherever possible.
• Fall Prevention – Use permanent walkways, guardrails or platforms to prevent falls.
• Work Positioning Systems – Systems like static lines and anchor points to safely position workers (requires training).
• Fall Arrest Systems – Harnesses, inertia reels, and nets used only if prevention isn’t possible.
• Administrative Controls & PPE – Signage, no-go zones, and safe work procedures.

3. Ensure Systems Are Regularly Inspected

Even the best-designed system needs regular checks to stay compliant. Australian Standards mandate that fall protection systems be inspected:

• At least every 12 months (more frequently in some states or high-use environments)
• By a qualified and accredited inspector
• With clear documentation and certification
• Inspections assess wear, corrosion, anchor layout, and fixture integrity and must be documented in a logbook.

4. Maintain Accurate Documentation

A compliant height safety setup includes:

• Risk Assessments for fall hazards
• SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements) for high-risk tasks
• Training Records showing worker competency
• Inspection & Maintenance Logs
• Rescue & Emergency Plans
• Signage that complies with AS 1319 (load ratings, safety warnings, emergency contacts)

All documentation must be accessible to workers and available during audits.

5. Don’t Forget Training and Inductions

Even a fully compliant system is only as safe as the people using it.
As a facility manager, you’re responsible for ensuring:

• Workers have been trained in height safety procedures and equipment use
• Contractors are inducted and understand system limitations
• Emergency procedures (e.g. rescue plans) are understood and rehearsed

6. Know Your Responsibilities as a PCBU

As a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), you hold a legal duty to manage height safety risks “so far as is reasonably practicable.” This includes:

• Conducting regular site audits
• Keeping systems certified and up to date
• Acting promptly to fix any non-compliance
• Engaging qualified professionals for design, install, and inspection

💡 Workplace Defender’s role: We work with you to identify risks, design fit-for-purpose systems, and ensure full compliance from day one. Our installers are factory-trained, and all equipment is independently certified.

7. Stay Proactive

Waiting until an incident or audit isn’t a compliance strategy. Proactive risk management means:

• Regular assessments of access points and rooftop plant areas
• Identifying wear or potential failures early
• Monitoring safe work procedures in practice
• Creating a culture where safety concerns are raised and addressed

Final Thoughts

A compliant height safety system isn’t a “set and forget”; it’s an ongoing responsibility. But with the right partner, it doesn’t have to be a headache.
At Workplace Defender, we help facility managers across Australia design, install, and maintain fully compliant, highly functional height safety systems. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to bring an existing setup up to code, we’re here to help you protect your people and your peace of mind.