TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
- You need a working at heights certificate if your role involves working at any height where there is a risk of a fall.
- Mandatory for workers in construction, telecommunications, mining, utilities, and maintenance.
- Often required alongside other courses like confined spaces training, gas testing combo, or the EWP yellow ticket combo.
- Certification ensures compliance with Australian WHS laws and protects workers.
- Consider whether RIIWHS204E Work Safely at Heights or a more advanced heights course is appropriate.
Why heights training matters in the workplace
Working at heights comes with various risks, no matter what industry sectors you are working in. Falls remain one of the most common causes of injury across Australian worksites, making proper training and qualifications an essential part of keeping workers safe.
Anyone working at heights must hold a valid qualification under national workplace safety laws. This isn’t just about compliance, it’s about giving workers the knowledge and practical skills to do the job safely and confidently.
A Working at Heights certificate is often mandatory in industries such as construction, mining, warehousing, roofing, telecommunications and maintenance. In many cases, it’s a condition of site access. Formal training helps reduce accidents, improves hazard awareness, and ensures that everyone on-site is better prepared when working above ground level.
What is a working at heights certificate?
A Working at Heights certificate (RIIWHS204E – Work Safely at Heights) is a nationally recognised training course that provides participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to work safely at heights. The training covers risk assessment, workplace procedures, and the correct use of fall protection systems across various industries.
Participants will explore both the theoretical and practical aspects of working at heights, including:
- Legal responsibilities and how to work safely at heights
- Safety equipment such as all arrest systems, harnesses, anchor points and ladder safety training
- Emergency planning, including rescue training
- Hazard identification and risk control measures at height
- Real-world examples to reinforce safe work practices
Delivered face-to-face over one day, this height training prepares participants to perform high-risk tasks safely. On successful completion, learners receive a Nationally Recognised Statement of Attainment for RIIWHS204E – Work Safely at Heights, which is valid for three years.
When are you legally required to have a working at heights certificate?
Under Australian WHS laws, workers must be trained and competent before performing any task where there’s a risk of falling from one level to another. For construction work, a fall risk over 2 metres is considered high-risk and must be supported by formal training and a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS), as outlined by Safe Work Australia.
This requirement applies to roles such as:
- Construction workers
- Roofers and scaffolders
- Electricians and maintenance teams
- Workers in the mining, telecommunications infrastructure industries
Employers (or PCBUs) are responsible for making sure workers are trained, equipped and supervised appropriately. Workers must follow safe work procedures and apply what they’ve learned through accredited training like the RIIWHS204E – Work Safely at Heights course. This shared responsibility supports safer outcomes across high-risk environments.
How the heights course fits into the broader workplace safety
A Working at Heights certificate is often one part of a broader safety training pathway. Many roles involve overlapping risks, which is why this course is commonly bundled with multiple courses like confined spaces training, gas test atmospheres, or the EWP yellow card. These combinations are particularly relevant in construction, mining, maintenance and civil works.
By completing multiple units, workers gain the competencies awarded for each, allowing them to legally and safely perform a wider range of tasks. For example, entering a lift shaft may require both confined space entry and fall protection knowledge.
Common combinations include:
- Confined Spaces Training (RIIWHS202E)
- Gas Test Atmospheres (MSMWHS217)
- EWP Yellow Card
- CPR or First Aid
Cross-training supports compliance, reduces downtime and builds a more flexible workforce.
Confined spaces and working at heights: where the training overlaps
Confined spaces often involve height-related risks — think vertical entries into tanks, pits or shafts, or working near unprotected edges. In these environments, workers may need space and heights training to carry out tasks safely and meet WHS requirements.
In mining or construction, for instance, a worker inspecting a silo may need to wear a harness, operate a fall arrest system and monitor gas levels. Without dual certification, these tasks can’t be legally performed.
By combining confined space entry with working at heights, workers gain the practical skills to manage both access and rescue procedures, supporting safer outcomes across complex sites.
“Over the years, I’ve realised it’s not just about the gear — it’s what people know. When someone’s trained in both heights and confined spaces, they just move smarter. They’re more aware, more confident, and that makes the whole site safer.” – Wayne Hooper, Lead Trainer and Subject Matter Expert
Choosing between a standard course and advanced training
A standard Working at Heights course (RIIWHS204E) covers the core skills needed to assess risk, use fall protection systems, and carry out functions involving basic height-related tasks safely. It’s suitable for most workers operating on roofs, scaffolds, ladders, or elevated work platforms.
However, in more complex environments—such as deep shafts, towers or confined spaces with limited entry and exit—advanced training may be required. This can include vertical rescue, advanced confined space entry, or undertaking gas testing components.
When choosing between standard and advanced options, consider:
- The type of work being performed
- Site conditions and known hazards
- Legal or site-specific training requirements
- Existing skill levels within the team
Matching training level to job demands helps reduce risk and keeps teams compliant and capable across a range of tasks.
How to enrol in a heights course and what to expect
To enrol in a Working at Heights course, look for a registered training organisation that delivers nationally recognised training, like Link Resources. A compliant provider will offer the nationally recognised course, RIIWHS204E – Work Safely at Heights unit and issue a Statement of Attainment upon successful completion.
Courses typically run for one day and include both theory and hands-on components. You’ll need to wear enclosed shoes, bring photo ID, and be ready to participate in practical exercises, so comfortable workwear is recommended. Some providers may offer site-based training if your workplace has the required facilities.
At Link Resources, courses are delivered face-to-face by experienced trainers, and your certification remains valid for three years.
Working at heights certification and career advancement
A Working at Heights certificate can do more than keep you safe—it can help you take the next step in your career. For anyone starting out or looking to build on their existing skills, it’s a solid addition to their career training. It shows you understand the proper safety precautions and know how to work safely in high-risk environments.
It also opens the door to more responsibility. When you combine it with other units like confined spaces, gas testing or an EWP yellow card, you’re not just qualified to do more—you may be able to supervise tasks whilst staying compliant with site rules. That kind of flexibility is something employers look for.
Holding multiple competencies makes you more valuable on site, helps you move between roles, and puts you in a better position when longer-term work comes up. If you’re serious about progressing, cross-training like this isn’t just helpful—it’s a smart move that shows you’re ready for whatever the job throws at you.
FAQ: Quick answers to common questions
Do I need a Working at Heights certificate to climb a ladder?
Not always. If the task involves minimal risk and doesn’t exceed site safety thresholds, formal training may not be required. However, for construction or elevated work above 2 metres, certification is often mandatory.
What is RIIWHS204E, and is it the only acceptable course?
RIIWHS204E – Work Safely at Heights is the nationally recognised unit for heights training. It’s widely accepted across Australia and meets WHS requirements.
Is online training sufficient for heights certification?
No. Due to the hands-on nature of the training, accredited courses must include practical assessment and are typically delivered face-to-face.
Can I combine heights training with other courses?
Yes. Many providers offer combo options with confined spaces, gas testing or EWP yellow card to cover multiple high-risk tasks.
How long is a Working at Heights certificate valid for?
Most employers recognise the certificate for three years before refresher training is recommended or required.
Do you need gas testing training for working at heights?
Only if the task involves enclosed or hazardous environments where gas exposure is a risk, such as tanks, shafts or confined spaces.
