What precaution should be taken when working at the foot of a highwall?

When working at the foot of a highwall, trimming loose material from the wall face is crucial to ensure safety. Loose rocks or debris can pose a significant risk of falling and causing injury to workers located below. By removing these potentially hazardous materials, workers can help to minimize the chance of rockfall incidents, which are one of the most common dangers associated with highwall operations.

The approach of removing loose material improves overall site safety, creating a more stable environment as workers go about their tasks. It is a proactive measure that directly addresses one of the primary risks in highwall areas, thereby safeguarding personnel and contributing to overall site safety culture.

While the other options such as wearing a helmet or using safety nets can certainly enhance worker safety, they are more reactive measures focused on mitigating consequences after a hazard has already presented itself. Establishing a perimeter is also important for controlling access to hazardous areas but does not address the immediate risk posed by loose materials on the highwall itself.