Working at Heights Courses in NSW
Working at heights training is required for anyone performing tasks above 2 metres from the ground on Australian construction and infrastructure sites. The RIIWHS204E course is a one-day face-to-face program covering fall prevention, harness use, and rescue procedures.
About Working at Heights Training
Falls from height remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the Australian construction industry. Working at heights training is not just a compliance tick — it is critical safety knowledge that directly reduces the risk of serious injury and death on site.
RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights is the nationally recognised unit of competency. The course covers the hierarchy of controls for fall prevention, correct use of personal fall arrest systems (harnesses), safe use of ladders and elevated work platforms, and emergency rescue procedures.
While there is no legislated expiry date for working at heights training, most principal contractors and site managers require workers to hold a certificate issued within the last 2 years. If your certificate is older than 2 years, you may be refused site access regardless of its technical validity.
1 day
Duration
$195–$350
Typical price
2 years
Recommended refresh
RIIWHS204E
Qualification code
There is no legislated expiry date for working at heights training in Australia. However, most employers and principal contractors require a refresher every 2 years as a condition of site access.
Who Needs Working at Heights Training?
- Construction workers, riggers, and scaffolders
- Maintenance and facilities workers accessing roofs or elevated areas
- Telecommunications and infrastructure workers
- Solar panel installers and roof plumbers
- Painters and exterior maintenance workers
- Tree loppers and arborists
- Anyone working above 2 metres from ground level
What the Course Covers
Find Working at Heights Courses Near You
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NSW
LiverpoolNSW
ParramattaNSW
PenrithNSW
BankstownNSW
FairfieldNSW
CamdenNSW
NarellanNSW
IngleburnNSW
BlacktownNSW
Castle HillNSW
RydeNSW
ChatswoodNSW
NewcastleNSW
WollongongNSW
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does working at heights training take?
The RIIWHS204E course takes approximately 8 hours — one full day of face-to-face training. The course includes both theory and practical components, including harness fitting and use. Your Statement of Attainment is typically issued on the day or within a few business days.
Does working at heights certification expire?
There is no legislated expiry date for RIIWHS204E in Australia. However, most construction companies and principal contractors require a refresher every 2 years as a condition of site access. If your certificate is more than 2 years old, expect to redo the course before being allowed on site.
How much does working at heights training cost?
Working at heights courses in NSW typically cost between $195 and $350 per person. Prices vary depending on the provider, location, and whether the course includes additional competencies such as EWP (elevated work platform) operation.
Do I need working at heights training for ladder work?
If you are using a ladder at a height of 2 metres or more on a construction site, most principal contractors will require you to hold current working at heights training. Even for non-construction work, employers have a duty of care under WHS legislation to ensure workers using ladders at height are trained in safe practices.
Can I do working at heights training online?
No. Working at heights training requires hands-on practical assessment, including harness fitting, anchor point selection, and fall arrest system use. The entire course must be completed face to face with a registered training organisation.
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