In Australia, high-risk work licenses are essential for ensuring workplace safety across industries that involve hazardous

1. Scaffolding License

Scaffolding is a critical component of construction work, but it carries inherent risks due to working at heights and handling heavy materials. Scaffolding licenses are divided into three levels, with specific work scopes for each:

• Basic Scaffolding (SB): Covers scaffolding work involving modular or pre-fabricated scaffolds, cantilevered materials hoists (maximum working load of 500 kilograms), ropes, gin wheels, safety nets, static lines, and bracket scaffolds (tank and formwork).
• Intermediate Scaffolding (SI): Includes cantilevered crane loading platforms, cantilevered scaffolds, spur scaffolds, barrow ramps, scaffolding for perimeter safety screens and shutters, mast climbing work platforms, and tube and coupler scaffolds.
• Advanced Scaffolding (SA): Involves complex tasks such as cantilevered hoists, hung scaffolds (suspended from tubes, wire ropes, or chains), and suspended scaffolds.

To obtain a scaffolding license, workers must complete accredited training, including safety protocols, equipment usage, and practical exercises. A final assessment ensures competency. This license is indispensable for construction and maintenance jobs to ensure the safe assembly and dismantling of scaffolds.

2. Rigging License

Rigging involves the use of mechanical equipment to move heavy loads. Like scaffolding, rigging licenses are categorized into three levels:

• Basic Rigging: Includes structural steel erection, hoists, pre-cast concrete member installation, safety nets, mast climbing work platforms, perimeter safety screens, and cantilevered crane loading platforms.
• Intermediate Rigging: Covers hoists with jibs, cranes, conveyors, dredges, tilt slabs, demolition of structures or plants, and dual lifts.
• Advanced Rigging: Encompasses gin poles, shear legs, flying foxes, cableways, guyed derricks, suspended scaffolds, and fabricated hung scaffolds.

Training includes theoretical knowledge and practical assessments on load handling, safety protocols, and equipment usage.

3. Crane Operation License

Operating cranes requires specialized training and licensing. The types of crane licenses include:

• Tower Cranes: Used for tall construction projects.
• Self-Erecting Tower Cranes: Mobile and easier to assemble.
• Derrick Cranes: Compact and versatile for smaller spaces.
• Portal Boom Cranes: Commonly used for port and yard work.
• Bridge and Gantry Cranes: These cranes are controlled from a permanent cabin or remotely operated with more than three powered operations.
• Vehicle Loading Cranes: Requires load estimation and slinging techniques for capacities of 10 metre-tonnes or more.
• Slewing Mobile Cranes: Categorized by lifting capacity: up to 20, 60, 100 tonnes, or over 100 tonnes.
• Non-Slewing Mobile Cranes: For capacities exceeding 3 tonnes.

Training for crane operation includes safety practices, load dynamics, and hands-on exercises.

4. Forklift Operation License

Forklift licenses are mandatory for workers operating powered industrial trucks. Licenses are categorized as:

• Forklift Trucks: For standard operations.
• Order Picking Forklift Trucks: For tasks involving elevated work platforms.

Training focuses on load stability, maneuvering techniques, and accident prevention, culminating in a practical assessment.

5. Boiler and Steam Equipment Licenses

Boiler operation involves handling high-pressure equipment. Licenses include:

• Standard Boiler Operation: For single fuel source boilers without pre-heaters or economisers.
• Advanced Boiler Operation: For boilers with multiple fuel sources, pre-heaters, or economisers.
• Steam Turbine Operation: For turbines with outputs of 500 kilowatts or more and complex features.
• Reciprocating Steam Engines: For engines with piston diameters exceeding 250 millimeters.

Training ensures workers are equipped to handle these systems safely.

6. Working at Heights License

Working at heights poses fall hazards, making the “Work Safely at Heights” certification critical. This certification trains workers in fall prevention, equipment usage (harnesses, fall arrest systems), and emergency procedures. It’s essential for construction, building maintenance, and outdoor installation roles.

7. Confined Space Work License

Tasks in confined spaces, like tanks or ducts, require specialized training to mitigate risks such as limited ventilation and toxic exposure. Workers learn hazard assessment, atmospheric testing, and safe entry/exit techniques. This license is vital for water treatment, utilities, and construction industries.

Why High-Risk Work Licenses Matter

High-risk work licenses are integral to workplace safety, ensuring that workers are trained and competent for hazardous tasks. They not only protect workers but also foster a safer environment for everyone on-site. By adhering to licensing requirements, industries reduce workplace injuries and fatalities, contributing to efficient, compliant operations.

Ready to take the next step in workplace safety and compliance? Connection Group Australia offers expert training and certification programs to help you secure the high-risk work licenses your team needs. Contact us today to learn more about our courses and elevate your workforce’s safety standards!