SAFETY FOCUS: HANDLING AN INJURED PERSON AT HEIGHT — WHAT EMPLOYERS MUST DO
- Compliance Hub Consulting
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
Working at heights comes with elevated risk — literally and legally. When an employee is injured while working at an elevated position, the employer's response must be swift, compliant, and well-documented. Here's how South African employers must legally handle such incidents, guided by the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993) and the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COID Act).
1. Immediate Rescue and Safety Response
South African law requires all workplaces involving work at height to have a Fall Protection Plan in place. This plan must include:
Rescue procedures for retrieving injured persons.
Competent personnel trained in safe rescue operations.
Approved equipment, including harnesses, pulleys, and ropes.
Important: Rescue operations must be performed in a manner that prevents further injury to the affected individual or the rescuers.
2. Medical Attention and Emergency Transport
Once safely on the ground, the injured worker must receive immediate medical attention.
The employer must arrange transport to a doctor or hospital without delay.
The costs of this transport and medical treatment are covered under the COID Act.
Delayed response times can impact both recovery and legal liability.
3. Mandatory Reporting Obligations
Legal timelines are strict:
The injury must be reported to the employer as soon as reasonably possible.
The employer must notify the Department of Employment and Labour within 7 days using prescribed forms.
A W.CL.2 form (Notice of Accident and Claim for Compensation) must be submitted if the employee seeks compensation.
Failure to report on time can result in fines or a forfeiture of benefits.
4. Investigation and Root Cause Analysis
The incident must be thoroughly investigated to:
Identify causes and contributing factors.
Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
Submit findings to the health and safety committee or representative for review.
Proper documentation is essential for COID claims and future safety audits.
5. Ongoing Compliance and Prevention
The General Safety Regulations and Construction Regulations are clear:
No one may work at height without adequate training, fall protection, and supervision.
All personnel must be competent and informed on emergency procedures.
The workplace must provide safe means of access, fall arrest systems, and rescue capability.
A Culture of Preparedness
Work-at-height safety isn’t only about compliance — it’s about care. Employers who invest in proper fall protection plans, training, and rescue readiness demonstrate a proactive safety culture that protects both lives and livelihoods.
Need to Review Your Fall Protection Plan?
Compliance Hub Consulting can help ensure your rescue procedures, safety documentation, and reporting protocols meet legal standards.
📞 Contact us to schedule a site risk assessment or compliance audit today.
