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Wake-Up Call: Roofing Falls Highlight Urgent Safety Needs

Via WorkSafe QLD
02/08/2024
The image shows two workers wearing high-visibility orange jackets and white safety helmets, standing on an elevated platform outdoors. One worker is pointing towards the distance, and the background features a bright blue sky with clouds and wind turbines. In the top left corner, there is an orange box with the text "05 Aug" and the Sparky Direct logo.

Key Points:

  • Four workers were injured in separate roofing incidents
  • Importance of rigorous fall prevention measures
  • Proactive risk management strategies

In early 2024, three roofing accidents led to serious injuries for four workers. This underscores the urgent need for strong safety measures when working at heights. Let’s explore what happened and how to prevent such accidents.

The image shows a worker wearing a safety helmet, high-visibility vest, and harness while walking on a rooftop. The worker appears to be engaged in construction or maintenance work, with tools in hand and safety equipment securely fastened. The background shows a distant view of rooftops and a clear sky.

‍Recent Incidents

February 2024:

  • Incident 1: A worker was badly injured when a roof panel collapsed during removal.
  • Incident 2: Another worker suffered head injuries after falling while installing roof sarking due to misplaced weight.

April 2024:

  • Incident 3: Two workers were hurt after falling while installing solar panels.

These incidents are being investigated to find the causes and improve safety.

Safety First: Key Considerations

Falls from roofs are a leading cause of workplace injuries and deaths. Key factors include:

  • Fall Control Measures: Barriers, safety nets, and guardrails are essential.
  • Work Height: Higher work areas have greater risks.
  • Surface Conditions: Slippery, sloping, or fragile surfaces (like asbestos sheets or skylights) are hazardous.
  • Task-Specific Risks: Installing, dismantling, or cleaning fragile surfaces is particularly dangerous.

Risk Management Strategies

Safety starts with management’s commitment and using controls to minimise hazards. Key measures include:

  1. Eliminate Risks: Perform tasks from the ground or solid structures when possible.
  2. Use Elevating Work Platforms (EWP): They are safer than standing on fragile surfaces.
  3. Install Safety Mesh and Edge Protection: These prevent falls through or off roofs.
  4. Travel Restraint Systems: These physically stop workers from reaching edges where falls could occur.
  5. Fall Arrest Systems: Used as a last resort to stop falls, with prompt rescue protocols in place.

Stay Ahead: Legal and Best Practice Guidelines

Complying with the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and the "Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice 2021" is crucial. These regulations require:

  • Safe Work Method Statements: For high-risk construction work over 2m high.
  • Regular Review of Safety Measures: Ensure control measures are effective and current.

Following these guidelines and implementing comprehensive safety measures can greatly reduce the risk of falls and protect our team.

Stay Safe with Sparky Direct's Comprehensive Safety Range

Don't compromise on safety—explore our full range of electrical safety products today. Visit our website to learn more and find the perfect gear to meet your needs. Stay safe, stay secure, and let us help you get the job done right.

Check out the LINQ Basic Roofers Essential Harness Kit and other top-quality safety products now!
The image shows a group of four workers standing outdoors, all wearing safety helmets and high-visibility jackets. Two of the individuals in the front are wearing bright yellow safety gear, while the other two in the back are in darker uniforms. They appear to be at a construction or industrial site, displaying a sense of teamwork and readiness.
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