Why is 'Falls Protection' so important and what are the legal requirements?
Falls protection is important because falls can result in serious injuries, disabilities, and even death, especially among older adults and those who work in high-risk industries such as construction and mining. According to the World Health Organization, falls are the second leading cause of accidental or unintentional injury deaths worldwide, with an estimated 646,000 individuals dying from falls each year.
Falls can also lead to non-fatal injuries such as fractures, head injuries, and soft tissue injuries, which can cause pain, disability, and a reduced quality of life. These injuries can also be costly, both in terms of medical expenses and lost productivity.
Falls can be prevented by implementing falls prevention strategies such as removing hazards in the environment, ensuring adequate lighting, installing handrails and grab bars, and providing appropriate training and equipment for workers in high-risk industries. By prioritizing falls prevention, we can reduce the incidence and severity of falls and improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
What are organisations Legal Requirements? In Australia, the legal requirements for falls protection vary depending on the state or territory, the industry, and the type of work being performed. However, there are some common requirements that companies should be aware of to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
The following are some of the legal requirements related to falls protection that companies in Australia should consider:
Risk assessment: Employers must conduct a risk assessment to identify and evaluate the risks associated with working at height. The assessment should consider the nature of the work, the height of the work area, and the likelihood of a fall occurring.
Control measures: Employers must implement appropriate control measures to prevent falls, such as installing guardrails, safety nets, or other types of fall protection systems.
Training: Employers must provide adequate training to employees who work at heights to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their work safely.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Employers must provide appropriate PPE, such as safety harnesses, to workers who are at risk of falling.
Inspections and maintenance: Employers must ensure that fall protection systems are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are in good working condition.
Compliance with standards: Employers must comply with relevant Australian standards related to falls protection, such as the AS/NZS 1891 series of standards.
It is important for companies to understand their legal obligations related to falls protection to ensure the safety of their workers and compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
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