Trans-Tasman safety heads target falls prevention

Workplace health and safety regulators across Australia and New Zealand are joining forces to target falls prevention in the construction industry, particularly small and medium-sized projects.

Site inspections will be carried out in February and March next year.

Falls prevention is a priority focus area for Australia’s workplace safety authorities since they are the single biggest cause of workplace deaths in the construction industry.

“You don't have to fall from a great height to be killed, end up in a wheelchair or [end up] with brain damage,” Heads of Workplace Safety Authorities (HWSA) chair, John Watson, said.

“There have been deaths from falls considerably less than two metres. Frequently it is the employer themselves.”

Builders, renderers, plumbers, electricians, roof tilers and other trades are at risk of serious injury if falls prevention measures are not taken.

“For the sake of those doing the job, their families and workmates, as well as your business, fix falls risks now,” said Watson.

“By announcing the campaign now, we expect all building trades which work at height to review their work procedures and, if necessary, introduce safer systems of work before inspectors visit.”