A recent NSW court ruling has highlighted the importance of working from heights safety, with a construction company being convicted and fined $150,000 for failing to protect its workers.
The incident occurred on June 7, 2022, when a worker fell about five meters from a temporary platform in an elevator shaft while using a rattle gun to undo bolts.
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The worker suffered multiple injuries, including rib fractures and a lacerated kidney.
The company, BKH Contractors Group Pty Ltd, pleaded guilty to breaching the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) for failing to comply with its duty to ensure worker safety.
“Falls from heights are a primary cause of traumatic injuries and fatalities at NSW workplaces,” SafeWork NSW Commissioner Janet Schorer said.
Resources available for businesses
SafeWork NSW offers resources to help businesses manage the risks of working from heights.
Workers with concerns about workplace health and safety can anonymously contact SafeWork on 13 10 50 or through the Speak Up Save Lives website.
“SafeWork NSW reminds all businesses of their duty to ensure their workers are protected when working at heights,” Schorer said.
By prioritising working from heights safety, businesses can prevent devastating accidents and ensure a safe working environment for their employees.