Working at heights: risks and best practices at AGF

Working at heights is a daily challenge for many AGF Group employees. Whether it’s on scaffolding to build a rebar wall, on an intermediate floor slab of a tall building or on a bridge, every additional metre above the ground increases not only the risks, but also the responsibility.

Risks that don’t forgive

A fall, even from just a few metres, can have serious, even irreversible, consequences. The main causes of accidents include:

• Using defective or poorly adjusted harness equipment
• Lack of specific training
• Poor terrain assessment or unstable platforms
• Errors due to fatigue or inattention
• Unfavourable weather conditions

At AGF, we know that one second of inattention can change everything. That’s why we take a proactive approach and have built a prevention-focused culture that’s embraced by all our employees from day one.

A strong HSE culture

Our HSE culture is built on three pillars:

Training: our first prevention tool

All employees required to work at heights must complete mandatory HSE training, including:

• Fall protection (theory and practice)
• Safe use of harnesses and lanyards
• Scaffolding assembly and inspection
• Safe access to ladders and platforms

These courses help instill safety reflexes, recognize hazards and respond effectively when issues arise. They are mandatory for all employees performing tasks at heights and must be renewed periodically to stay compliant with current standards.

Best practices on site

For every task performed at heights, our teams make sure to:

• Inspect equipment before every use
• Use only certified equipment suited to the task
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) properly and at all times
• Keep the work area clear to prevent falling objects
• Use proper and compliant anchor points
• Communicate clearly and never work alone at heights
• Be mindful of physical and mental health
• Follow all safety standards and procedures
• Adapt work methods to weather conditions

A collective commitment

At AGF, safety doesn’t rest on one person’s shoulders: it’s everyone’s responsibility. Working at heights requires discipline and preparation. Thanks to our training programs, our vigilance and our HSE culture, we make every job site a safer place for all. It’s through our collective commitment that we can keep working at heights… while keeping our feet firmly on the ground.