Working at Heights: Key Safety Measures and Practices

A 31-year-old formwork worker recently sustained serious injuries after falling approximately 3 metres while descending a ladder into a jumpform cell on a construction site. This incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with working at heights and underscores the importance of safety measures in such environments.

Understanding Working at Heights

Working at heights refers to any task where there is a risk of falling from one level to another. These risks go beyond construction on buildings and include tasks like working near deep excavations. Given the frequency of these activities in the construction industry, safeguarding workers is crucial.

High-risk construction work

Tasks involving a risk of falling more than two metres are classified as high-risk construction work. Falls from heights remain a leading cause of fatalities and injuries in the construction industry. Under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (ACT), Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) are required for high-risk tasks. SWMS must outline specific hazards, control measures, and details of high-risk work.  SWMS must be created in consultation with the workers before the work is commenced and reviewed where changes occur to the work or the controls

The Role of Workplace Culture

Workplace culture plays a significant role in the success of implementing safe work practices. The NSW SafeWork Work at Height Construction Blitz for 2019 and 2020 revealed that one of the most common reasons for non-compliance from principal contractors and site supervisors was simply that “they had no excuse.” A strong safety culture ensures that safe work practices are consistently followed, and delegated responsibilities are executed with the same diligence as those who are directly accountable under the health and safety legislation. Regularly assessing the competence of workers performing tasks at heights over two metres is essential to ensure they adhere to necessary control measures.

Managing Risks at Heights

Whenever possible, tasks should be performed at ground level. However, when working at heights is unavoidable, safety measures must be implemented according to the hierarchy of controls. Even for tasks with a fall risk of less than two metres, risk assessment should be carried out to identify the risks and appropriate controls.

Identifying Hazards and the Hierarchy of Controls

Certain conditions make working at heights especially hazardous. These include the height at which work is performed, the surface beneath the work area, the potential for slipping, and the stability of structures or ground surfaces. The risks should be managed using the hierarchy of control, which is:

1. Eliminate the Hazard
2. Substitute with a Safer Surface
3. Isolate the Hazard
4. Implement Engineering Controls
5. Use Administrative Controls
6. Ensure Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Responsibilities Beyond Site

Businesses beyond the construction site, such as engineering and design firms are also required to comply with their obligations to ensure the health and safety of their workers and others. In July 2024, two South Australian engineering firms were fined under work health and safety legislation a combined $70,000 for unsafe structural design, which led to a roof collapse and injured two workers. This case serves as a reminder that safety compliance extends beyond the physical worksite.

Conclusion

Working at heights presents significant risks, but through thorough planning and effective control measure these risks can be minimized. Employers and workers must work together to establish safe systems of work, ensuring the protection of all involved from falls and related injuries.

Need More?

The Workplace Relations and Legal Team is here to assist with any questions regarding your WHS obligations and responsibilities. For more information or assistance, please contact us at (02) 6175 5900.