Working at Heights - Daily activity, deadly outcomes
Working at heights is one of the most common and potentially deadly activities in the workplace, resulting in an average of 28 work related fatalities per year (Safe work Australia). This accounts for approximately 11% of the workplace fatalities in Australia. We need to ask ourselves – are we doing enough in our own workplaces to prevent our people from falling from height?
We cannot not simply rely on training and fall protection equipment- remember these are our last lines of defence. Proactive management of risk from the planning stage to the completion of works is required to prevent falls from height.
In the context of working at height, risk assessments should consider:
What construction activities are required;
Future maintenance requirements – can you design plant or equipment to eliminate or minimise the risk;
Equipment requirements - have you made provision for elevated work platforms, scaffolds, walkways and handrails? Have you identified your drop zones?
Personnel resourcing requirements – do you have adequate supervision on the job? Have you provided working at heights training?
Systems – have you implemented robust systems to manage the work – permits, JSA’s and
audits?
The Prevention of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice 2004 provides an excellent resource which provides practical guidance on meeting the requirements in the Western Australian .
Alternatively EHSQ Management Solutions have a team of experienced consultants who can help you assess your working at heights risks, identify practical risk mitigation measures, implement robust systems and ensure you meet legal requirements.
Contact us today to find out how we can add value to your business.
