I was out walking on the weekend and saw 2 glaring examples of fall risks, less than 100 metres apart. The first image is of a pool construction site. The contractor is balancing on a very narrow ledge in front of the fence, approximately 2.5 metres above the ground. Whilst fall protection is not required in South Australia for potential drops that are less than 3 metres, there is still a duty of care to have safe systems of work. Moments before this photo was taken, the worker was leaning out mid-air over the upright reinforcing rods. OUCH!!
This second photo is of a homeowner doing some maintenance on the front of his home. His feet are approximately 4.5 metres above the ladder feet. The ladder feet are placed on a narrow step and the top of the ladder is not secured. Note he is not wearing any fall protection. A sideways or backwards fall for this enterprising homeowner could very well be fatal, given the terrain and hard surfaces below.
Take the time to look after your own safety. A life changing accident is no good for anyone!
