Integrate Safety, a leading provider in workplace safety solutions, emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive fall prevention measures in the construction industry. Following a recent report revealing a surge in falls from heights among construction workers in Victoria, WorkSafe is launching a statewide blitz to address the issue. In 2023, 441 claims were accepted for injuries resulting from falls, an increase from 421 in 2022. Tragically, nine workers lost their lives, with four fatalities occurring in the construction sector.
WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety, Narelle Beer, highlighted the imminent enforcement efforts, with a specific focus on ensuring employers prioritize fall prevention. Construction remains the highest-risk industry for falls from heights, constituting one-third of the 1,352 total claims reported last year. Integrate Safety stresses the importance of implementing the five levels in the hierarchy of controls to prevent falls, ranging from eliminating risks by working on the ground (Level 1) to utilizing passive fall prevention devices (Level 2), positioning systems (Level 3), fall arrest systems (Level 4), and, as a last resort, fixed or portable ladders and administrative controls (Level 5).
Integrate Safety stands ready to assist businesses in adopting and implementing these safety measures, ensuring the well-being of workers and compliance with regulations. For further details on the statewide blitz and comprehensive fall prevention strategies
Read the full news post by WorkSafe here: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-02/prevention-focus-deaths-and-injuries-construction-falls
For all your Occupational Health and Safety requirements get in touch with Integrate Safety on 1300 001 842 or email Steven at steven@integratesafety.com.au