Scaffolding incident highlights urgent need for falling object prevention

A devastating injury underscores the critical importance of safeguarding workers against falling objects, particularly on construction sites.

A recent scaffolding incident where a worker was critically injured by a falling plank is a sombre reminder of the dangers construction workers face each day. While the precise cause is still under investigation, it appears that wind dislodged an unsecured plank causing it to fall from a significant height. This tragedy emphasises the need for diligent safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences.

The gravity of falling objects

Construction sites present numerous falling object hazards. Even seemingly small objects can cause severe injury or death when dropped from heights. Scaffolding work, with its elevated platforms and various components, poses a particularly high risk. Workers must be protected not only from a complete scaffold collapse but also from falling tools, materials, and unsecured scaffold elements.

Prevention is paramount

Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, businesses have a primary duty of care to protect the health and safety of their workers. This includes employing effective risk management strategies and control measures to minimise the risk of falling objects, particularly within the inherently complex scaffolding environment.

Key control measures

While a combination of approaches is often necessary, here are some crucial control measures specifically aimed at preventing falling objects on scaffolding:

• Perimeter screening: Use containment screening wherever feasible to prevent objects from falling off the scaffold in the first place.
• Secure scaffold planks: Ensure proper installation of scaffold planks with latching mechanisms engaged to prevent wind uplift. Avoid stacking loose planks on the platform.
• Exclusion zones: Clearly mark areas beneath active scaffolding with barriers and signage, and enforce these “no go” zones with supervision.
• Overhead protection: Where possible, provide catch platforms, gantries, or safety nets to intercept any falling objects.
• Safe material handling: Use mechanical hoists instead of manual material transport to reduce the chance of items being dropped.
• Strict housekeeping: Maintain a clean, orderly worksite to minimise loose items and tripping hazards near edges.
• Safe work procedures and training: Develop specific protocols for working on or around scaffolding, and provide workers with thorough training on hazards and safety measures. Include clear instructions on securing materials and tools.
• Consultation and collaboration: Ensure ongoing communication and cooperation between all parties involved in the project to collaboratively address risks.

Remember: It’s essential to prioritise the prevention of objects falling in the first place. Should a fall occur, secondary measures to protect those below are just as crucial.

The worker’s injury serves as a devastating reminder that falling object hazards must be taken seriously. Prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of an accident.