OHS-WHS
ACCORDING TO SAFE WORK AUSTRALIA,
2015 recorded the lowest amount of workplace
deaths since records began in 2003.
That’s good news, right? Well, actually no.
Whilst this is a huge drop compared to the highest
recorded amount of 307 in 2007, it is important that we
do not lose sight of the fact that this is not just a
number. This figure relates to real people, real families,
real communities who have all been significantly
affected by the death of a loved one.
Falls from heights remains the third highest cause of
workplace fatality and one has to question why,
especially when the risk can be substantially reduced
by the installation of compliant roof access and fall
protection systems.
Why are our safety messages not getting through?
It is reasonable to believe that safety is more of a focus
with employers than it ever used to be. Many businesses
have accepted their duty of care for their workers and
are doing what is required to ensure their safety. So,
why are we still getting workplace deaths?
With regard to height safety, the old adage, “out of
sight, out of mind” is very pertinent. These types of
locations and systems are often out of direct vision and
can become a forgotten part of safety, frequently being
bypassed during regular building maintenance and
inspections. Exposure to the harsh Australian climate
can dramatically affect safety equipment’s
performance and reliability, and if damaged or fatigued
they may fail when they are needed most.
Regular auditing of roof access and height safety
systems must also be conducted. Regulations change
and what was an effective and compliant height safety
system 20 years ago may no longer meet the
requirements of current day standards due to
continuous improvements.
It is a sad realisation but money often has a bearing
when installation of fall protection systems is being
considered. In many circumstances, roofs are accessed
infrequently, and it may be felt that it is not worth
investing money in fall protection systems. Regardless
of how often work at heights is undertaken, it is
mandatory that companies ensure any workers who
are conducting work at height, are protected from
the risk of potential falls.
Concerns over pricing can also result in a less than
suitable system being installed. You cannot and should
not ever put a price on safety. Always check that the
systems being installed on your buildings are suited to
the work to be done, compliant to Australian Standards
and that the persons installing them are qualified and
know the current regulations and guidelines.
Need to know more?
Sayfa are the market leaders in height safety and fall
protection. It is our mission to SAVE LIVES. We know
the regulations and can provide you with compliant,
reliable and user friendly systems.
Why not book a height safety awareness session
today? Our Australia wide Accredited Installers can
inspect your systems and will offer cost effective solutions
to help keep your workplace compliant and safe.
Join us to SAVE LIVES and let us make your workplace
a SAFER workplace.
IT’S THE SAYFA WAY.
1300 301 755 / SAYFA.COM.AU / [email protected]
GOVLINK » ISSUE 3 2016
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