Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00425:body:0:p20
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00425
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 50320–52940

line that can be adjusted in length so that a free fall position can be reached
    * there is a danger the user may fall through the surface, for example fragile roofing material
    * the slope is over 15 degrees
    * there is any other reasonably likely use or misuse of the system that could lead to a free fall.

6. FALL-ARREST SYSTEMS

A fall-arrest system is intended to safely stop a worker falling an uncontrolled distance and reduce the impact of the fall. This system must only be used if it is not reasonably practicable to use higher level controls or if higher level controls might not be fully effective in preventing a fall on their own.
All equipment used for fall-arrest should be designed, manufactured, selected and used in compliance with the AS1891 series of standards.

Key safety considerations in using fall arrest systems are:
    * the correct selection, installation and use of the equipment
    * that the equipment and anchorages are designed, manufactured and installed to be capable of withstanding the force applied to them as a result of a person's fall
    * that the system is designed and installed so that the person travels the shortest possible distance before having the fall stopped
    * that workers using a fall-arrest system wear adequate head protection to protect them in the event of a fall
    * that if the equipment has been used to arrest a fall it is not used again until it has been inspected and certified by a competent person as safe to use.

6.1 Catch platforms
A catch platform is a temporary platform located below a work area to catch a worker in the event of a fall. The platform should be of robust construction and designed to withstand the maximum potential impact load. Scaffolding components may be used to construct fixed and mobile catch platforms (see Figure 20).
Catch platforms should:
    * incorporate a fully planked-out deck
    * be positioned so the deck extends at least two metres beyond all unprotected edges of the work area, except where extended guard railing is fitted to the catch platform
    * be positioned as close as possible to the underside of the work area—the distance a person could fall before landing on the catch platform should be no more than one metre
    * always be used with an adequate form of edge protection.

Figure 20: An example of a catch platform below a work area.

6.2 Industrial safety nets
Safety nets can provide a satisfactory means of protection while allowing workers maximum freedom of movement. They should not be used to enter or exit a work area or as a working platform.

If safety nets are