The Safety Update - Preventing Falls From Heights

Falls are a leading cause of serious injury and death in construction. Every year, workers are seriously injured or killed from falls off ladders, scaffolds, roofs and edges.

The good news is that most falls can be prevented. They tend to happen fast, and often when people rush or take shortcuts, so a few simple habits make a big difference.

Preventing falls starts with recognising the hazards on site and taking the time to set up and use equipment correctly.

Common Causes on Site:

• Slippery or Cluttered Work Areas: Poor footing and obstructed walkways make it easier to slip or trip.
• Unprotected Edges: Edges and openings without protection are a major fall risk.
• Incorrect Use of Ladders or Scaffolds: Using access equipment the wrong way is a common cause of falls.
• Loose Materials and Poor Housekeeping: Loose materials and tools left lying around create hazards underfoot.

Preventing Falls:

Most falls can be avoided by checking equipment, keeping work areas clear and protecting edges before work begins.

• Inspect Before Use: Cracked or broken rungs, loose bolts and non-approved fixes all lead to injuries. Check ladders and scaffolds before use and set them up correctly.
• Keep Access Clear: Keep walkways, platforms and scaffolds free of clutter.
• Protect Edges and Openings: Use guardrails, covers or fall arrest systems near edges and openings.

Using a Ladder Safely:

Everyday habits like carrying objects up a ladder, leaning to reach for something or trying to move the ladder while still on it are common causes of injury. Make sure you understand the hazards of the ladder you are using.

• Keep Three Points of Contact: Don’t carry objects up a ladder in your hands. Use a tool belt so your hands are free for climbing.
• Don’t Lean or Reach: Climb down and reposition the ladder closer to the object or area you were trying to reach.
• Respect the Top Rung: Never stand on the top rung if it is not designed to be a step.

Choosing and Setting Up Your Ladder:

The right ladder, set up the right way, is the first line of defence when working at height.

• Use the Right Ladder: There are many types of ladders for different situations. Check weight ratings to make sure you don’t overload it.
• Secure the Ladder: Make sure it is stable on the ground before climbing, tie it off to the structure beside it, and have someone hold it where possible.
• Tag Out Faulty Ladders: If there are any problems, tag the ladder out of use immediately and find a properly functioning one.

If a Fall Happens:

Prompt reporting means incidents can be addressed quickly.

• Tell the Site Manager: Report the incident to the site manager immediately.
• Tell Point Force Group: Report the incident to your Point Force Group manager or OHS.

Key Actions:

On site, falls happen fast. Don’t take risks, and take your time whenever you’re working at height.

• Inspect First: Check ladders and scaffolds before every use.
• Slow Down: Don’t rush, as most falls happen when people take shortcuts.
• Stay Secure: Keep three points of contact and make sure your ladder is secured.
• Report It: Report any incident to the site manager and to Point Force Group straight away.