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Multiple high fall incidents at work sites prompt WorkCover NSW warning

Three separate incidents in which workers fell from heights in Sydney on Monday (June 3) have prompted WorkCover NSW to issue an urgent call for vigilance on the part of all those who work in elevated positions.

The first incident occurred in the morning, when a worker fell four metres at a construction site in Potts Hill.

Later in the day, a man working on a demolition site in Rushcutters Bay fell through a skylight, falling more than three metres.

Lastly, in the early afternoon a man fell three metres from a ladder on a work site in South Coogee.

WorkCover NSW released a statement calling for employers and employees alike to be more vigilant about safety when working at heights.

“We want all workers to return home safely to their families and friends at the end of the day, and under work health and safety laws, workplaces must have systems in place to prevent workers falling from heights,” said acting general manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division Peter Dunphy.

“Businesses must provide workers with information, instruction, training and supervision in risk control procedures.”

WorkCover reminded employers that they need to ensure the safety of their work places.

In situations where height was a factor, the safety authority provided some pointers on what to check.

Their advice included: ensure safe access and walkways are provided to all parts of the worksite; make sure the working area is stable; put physical barriers over exposed edges; and ensure appropriate safety equipment is used.

Mr Dunphy noted that employees had just as much of a responsibility to contribute to safer work sites.

“Workers are required to follow the procedures set out by the business who must provide a safe workplace by identifying foreseeable hazards, assessing risks and taking action to eliminate or control those risks,” he said.

Serious falls can lead to injuries so severe that the victim is unable to return to work.

In these cases, it may be possible to make a claim for a lump sum payment for permanent disability through superannuation or insurance policies.

Those who are unsure if they may be entitled to permanent disability benefits through the policies that they hold can discuss their circumstances with injury compensation lawyers in Sydney.

Specialist compensation lawyers have years of experience of helping victims of workplace injuries make Personal Disability claims, making them the natural place to seek professional advice.

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