RESOURCES

Preventing Falls in the Workplace

Emergency planning

Mitigating the risk of falls

Preventing falls and other potential hazards in the workplace is a fundamental aspect of ensuring the safety and well-being of employees, especially in the construction industry where working at heights is routine.

Luckily, there are some strategies and measures employers can adopt to mitigate the risks associated with falls and create a safer work environment.

Employers have a legal obligation to create a safe working environment, and following the strategies and codes of practice outlined in this guide can significantly reduce the risks of falls associated with working at heights.

1. Comply with Regulations

Start with compliance. Adherence to New Zealand’s health and safety regulations is a must when working at heights. These regulations and safety practices provide the foundation for safe workplace practices. Employers are obligated to stay informed about the latest standards and ensure their workers rigorously follow them. Neglecting compliance not only jeopardizes worker safety but also exposes employers to legal consequences.

2. Risk Assessment

Assessing risks is your first line of defence against falls. Identifying potential hazards within your workspace is essential for proactive prevention. By spotting hazards like unprotected edges early, employers can take the right precautions and substantially reduce the likelihood of accidents. A proactive approach to risk assessment is a game-changer for workplace safety.

3. Training for Confidence

Ensuring your team is adequately trained and certified for height work is non-negotiable. Appropriate training equips workers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to handle height-related tasks safely. It’s a cornerstone for creating a safe and efficient workforce. Providing the right training will empower your team to perform their jobs securely.

4. Equipment Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance of scaffolding equipment is critical for its ongoing safety and reliability. Promptly addressing wear and tear, as well as defects, prevents accidents caused by equipment failure. Employers should implement robust maintenance schedules to guarantee the equipment’s integrity.

5. Comprehensive Safety Plans

Take a systematic approach by developing and implementing comprehensive safety plans and procedures. These plans should encompass various aspects of safety, including fall prevention, emergency response, and communication strategies. A well-structured safety plan prepares your workers to handle potential fall-related emergencies.

6. Emergency Response Planning

Emergency response plans are a crucial component of fall prevention. Workers should be well-versed in the steps to take during emergencies, and response procedures should be seamlessly integrated into the overall safety plan. Rapid response plans, especially for addressing suspension trauma following falls, are essential for ensuring workers’ well-being in critical situations.

7. Documentation for Ongoing Improvement

Keeping detailed records of safety training, incidents, and corrective actions is vital for safety enhancement. Documentation serves as a reference for evaluating the effectiveness of safety measures and helps identify areas for improvement. Regular reviews of documentation lead to ongoing safety protocol enhancements.

8. Fall & Void Protection Systems

To ensure workers’ safety at heights, employers should provide essential equipment and systems, such as personal protective gear including proper footwear, safety nets, and guardrails, as a proactive fall prevention measure.

Man fallen from heights

Improve workplace safety with Voideck

For innovative and effective solutions to enhance worker safety and eliminate fall risks, consider Voideck. Their modular system offers a secure working platform, ensuring workers’ well-being and project success.

For further information or inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact Voideck at 0274 443 463 or via email at franchising@voideck.co.nz. Your unwavering commitment to safety is the cornerstone of a secure and thriving workplace.