Despite advancements in height safety systems and an increasing focus on workplace health and safety (WHS), falls from height continue to rank among the leading causes of both injuries and fatalities in the construction industry.
The stats are sobering: 16 fatalities in construction were caused by falls from height in just four years, with nearly 2,000 injury claims lodged during the same period. Young workers, particularly those aged 20–29, are disproportionately affected, highlighting the urgent need for reliable safety measures and training. Behind every statistic is a person—a worker, a family member, a friend—whose life could be irrevocably changed by a split-second incident.
Accidents happen when we underestimate the risks
The pressure to get the job done quickly is never worth risking an accident. Misunderstandings about what constitutes “working at height” and the hazards involved often lead to complacency. Yet, as a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), it’s your legal and moral responsibility to guarantee the health and safety of everyone on-site.
This can come in the form of consulting with workers or coordinating with other duty holders. Compliance is about fostering a culture of safety that ensures every worker goes home at the end of the day. As a rope access company in Sydney, we know that height safety systems do more than just meet legal obligations; they build trust, enhance productivity, and, most importantly, save lives.
Building owners’ legal duties
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS Act), building owners have a responsibility to protect individuals from health and safety risks within their premises. This act is there for a reason, and ensuring you follow it saves lives – it’s that simple. You are responsible for ensuring the highest level of protection for workers, contractors, and the general public by proactively identifying and managing hazards.
Under the Act, risks must be eliminated or minimised, to the point that it is reasonably practicable, by implementing safety controls. When working at heights, owners must adhere to all Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017, which address falls exceeding two meters. This includes identifying fall-risk tasks, prioritising measures like passive fall-prevention devices, and developing rescue and first-aid emergency procedures. Importantly, owners must consult with workers and safety representatives about hazards and controls, ensuring everyone on-site is informed, protected, and involved in creating a safe work environment.
How to ensure compliance with height safety standards
Safeguarding workers and yourself against legal and safety risks is easy if you are proactive and aware of certain requirements.
- Install certified height safety systems
Start by assessing the specific needs of your building and installing appropriate systems that meet Australian standards and industry codes of practice. These systems often include safe access solutions, like ladders and walkways, and fall protection measures, like static lines and anchor points. Choose systems tailored to your building’s unique requirements and frequency of use.
- Provide thorough documentation
Compliance doesn’t stop at installation. Every height safety system must have detailed procedure documents outlining correct usage, necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), and system limitations. Workers should review and acknowledge these documents before accessing high-risk areas.
- Train workers and conduct inspections
Ensure that workers using the systems are adequately trained. Additionally, regular inspections must be conducted to confirm that safety equipment remains in proper working order and complies with current regulations.
Rope access and height safety solutions
Working at heights is made much safer when working with a skilled rope access company in Sydney like Abseilers United. We offer systems that are essential for maintaining a secure and efficient workplace. These solutions help reduce risks and ensure compliance with stringent safety standards, giving building owners peace of mind.
Rope access is a versatile and efficient method for accessing hard-to-reach areas. Using ropes, harnesses, and specialised equipment, our skilled technicians perform building maintenance, inspections, and repairs with minimal disruption. It’s a cost-effective alternative to scaffolding or heavy machinery, particularly for projects that require flexibility and precision.
Height safety systems
Height safety systems are designed to prevent falls and protect workers in high-risk environments. At Abseilers United, we ensure buildings have everything they need to stay compliant while protecting workers. These include:
- Safety lines that provide continuous fall protection across rooftops or other elevated areas.
- Anchor points that serve as secure attachment points for rope access and fall arrest systems.
- Walkways and handrails that create safe, defined paths for regular access.
- Ladders that offer secure entry to elevated areas which are designed for durability and compliance.
These systems minimise workplace accidents and protect your workforce, which meets Australian standards and avoids potential legal issues. They can also reduce downtime, compensation claims, and costly disruptions.
Working with a reliable rope access company in Sydney
Abseilers United specialise in delivering industry-leading rope access and height safety solutions across Sydney. With over 15 years of experience, we’ve built a reputation for safety, precision, and exceptional service.
Our team comprises highly skilled professionals with IRATA and SPRAT qualifications gained through rigorous training in Australia, the USA, and Europe. Most importantly, we put safety first—always. Every project we undertake adheres to the highest safety standards, including AS/NZS guidelines, Work Cover requirements, and industry best practices. We are correctly insured with $20 million in Public Liability coverage; we make sure that all work ticks the necessary safety and compliance boxes for you.
From government departments to construction managers and residential clients, we work closely with you to design and implement solutions that meet all legal requirements and your building’s needs. Our services range from height safety system installations to inspections and ongoing maintenance, ensuring compliance and reliability. We also pride ourselves on being reliable, efficient, and affordable. Choose Abseilers United, Sydney’s leading rope access and height safety specialists, to ensure your building is safe and compliant.