Fall incident highlights risk of working at heights

SafeWork NSW recently released an incident information alert following a serious fall through a box gutter on 5 March, during roofing works on a building under construction.

The incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with work at heights and the importance of treating box gutters, fragile roofing elements and incomplete structures as high‑risk areas. This alert is a timely reminder for ACT builders, contractors and supervisors to review fall prevention measures and ensure compliant systems of work are in place before roofing activities commence.

Members are reminded to:

• identify box gutters and fragile roof areas early during the planning stage and clearly mark them as high‑risk zones on site
• ensure appropriate fall prevention measures are in place, such as physical edge protection, covers, safety mesh or fall‑arrest systems, before workers access roofing areas
• implement a compliant Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for high‑risk construction work, including roofing and work at heights, and ensure it is site‑specific and followed
• provide adequate supervision and training, particularly for apprentices and new workers, to ensure hazards are understood and controls are used correctly
• regularly inspect and maintain controls (including temporary coverings and guardrails) to ensure they remain effective as work progresses.

Read the SafeWork NSW Safety Alert for information on appropriate control measures.

For questions about your work, health and safety obligations, contact the Workplace Relations Team: 

📞 (02) 6175 5900
📧 workplace@mba.org.au