Two workers are in a telehandler personnel basket, elevated to 10 metres. One worker needs to step onto a nearby structural beam to access an overhead pipe. What is the safest and correct procedure the operator and workers must follow given the fall arrest requirements?

Question: Two workers are in a telehandler personnel basket, elevated to 10 metres. One worker needs to step onto a nearby structural beam to access an overhead pipe. What is the safest and correct procedure the operator and workers must follow given the fall arrest requirements?

Answer options: ✅ The worker must remain tied off to the platform's designated anchor point until securely tied off to an approved anchor point on the structure, before stepping off the platform.

• The worker can untie from the platform, step onto the beam, and then tie off to the structure if an anchor point is available.
• The worker should use a spotter on the ground to guide them as they transfer.
• The operator should slightly lower the platform so the worker can reach the beam more easily.

Correct answer: The worker must remain tied off to the platform's designated anchor point until securely tied off to an approved anchor point on the structure, before stepping off the platform.

Explanation: Workers in a personnel work platform must maintain 100% tie-off when working at height, meaning they must never be unattached when a falls hazard exists. If transferring to an adjacent structure, they must use a 'double tie-off' or 'leapfrog' technique, ensuring they are connected to an anchor point (either on the platform or the structure) at all times. Untying before securing to a new anchor point or simply lowering the platform without addressing fall arrest are unsafe practices.