Securing worksites against storm activity

NT WorkSafe Inspectors investigated a number of near misses last week after a series of storm-related incidents. For example, a number of scaffolding planks at a high-rise construction site became lose and were blown into the building being constructed. Over 50 m of temporary fencing adjacent to a car park collapsed. An outdoor furniture table became airborne, with the glass table top smashing into a second floor office window and narrowly avoiding injuring a worker nearby.

NT WorkSafe is advising all Top End businesses to take immediate measures to clean up their worksite and secure any loose items and material which may become airborne during strong winds. The cyclone season began on 1 November and extends through to 30 April. Businesses should review their emergency plans and should ensure all staff are aware of what action to take in the event of a severe storm or cyclone.

Emergency plans should be clearly written and simple to understand. Where relevant, the emergency plans should address but not be limited to:

• hazards in the workplace;
• responsibility of staff;
• briefings for staff;
• securing materials and equipment on worksites;
• safe storage of material unable to be secured;
• protection, dismantling and securing plant;
• security of services (eg water, gas main);
• monitoring weather conditions; and
• evacuation procedures.