RESOURCES

Falls in the Workplace: A Guide to Emergency Procedures

Man fall from heights

Working on scaffolding at heights comes with significant risks, and ensuring worker safety is paramount. Employers in New Zealand are legally obligated to provide a secure working environment, as mandated by the Health and Safety Work Act 2015.

In this guide, we’ll detail the essential elements of emergency response procedures for falls in the workplace, with a strong emphasis on ensuring worker safety and well-being at all times.

Establishing Emergency Plans and Procedures

To prevent fall accidents, it’s crucial to have well-defined emergency plans that seamlessly integrate into your overall safety framework. These plans should be familiar to all employees. Here are the key considerations:

Access to the Worksite

Providing easy access to the worksite is a cornerstone of effective emergency response. Emergency services and vehicles must have unobstructed entry and exit points. During the planning phase, prioritise creating the quickest routes for rescuers, and removing any obstructions, such as machinery.

Rescuer Capability

Comprehensive training for all workers is essential, enabling them to assess potential dangers in height-related accidents and administer first aid when needed. Adequate training in the use of life-saving equipment enhances the capabilities of those who may assist in emergencies.

Provide access to ambulances and first responders.

Rescue and Aid Equipment

Having readily available rescue and emergency equipment is non-negotiable for workplaces at heights. This includes first aid tools, ropes, ladders, and stretchers.

Trained personnel should be on-site during work hours to ensure prompt medical treatment while awaiting professional assistance. The consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety clothing is imperative.

Adequate Communication

Establishing immediate communication and coordination between workers at height and ground personnel during accidents is paramount. Implement a reliable communication system, such as a radio network.

Local Emergency Rescue

Comprehensive emergency procedures must include swift notification to local emergency rescue services. All workers should be aware of emergency hotlines and contact information, along with typical response times to ensure appropriate actions can be taken while awaiting professional rescuers.

Rapid Response

Suspension trauma, also known as Harness Hang Syndrome, is a serious concern after a fall. In such instances, a rapid and effective response plan must be executed within ten minutes by trained personnel to prevent life-threatening suspension trauma. Implement a buddy system and ensure harnesses allow workers to be positioned horizontally.

Employers have not only a legal obligation but a moral duty to safeguard their workers from potential accidents when working at heights. By embracing void protection solutions like Voideck and following the meticulous safety measures outlined in this guide, the risks associated with working at heights can significantly be reduced.

For more information or inquiries about Voideck hire, please contact us at 0274 443 463 or franchising@voideck.co.nz. Your dedication to safety is the foundation of a secure and successful workplace.