Safety Alert

What Happened

A scaffolder fell approximately 2 metres from scaffolding at Processing Plant Level 3. The worker was wearing a harness but it was not clipped to the anchor point. He landed on the platform below and sustained back pain. The scaffolding had been inspected the previous day and was tagged green.

Why It Matters

Falls from height remain a leading cause of serious injury and fatality in the mining and construction industries. This incident highlights that having PPE available is not sufficient — it must be correctly used. The worker's harness was worn but not connected, providing zero fall protection.

Immediate Actions Required

1. 1All harness users to verify clip-on before ascending — buddy check system to be implemented immediately
2. 2Scaffold inspection to include harness compliance verification as a mandatory check item
3. 3All Level 3 activities suspended until scaffold integrity review is completed
4. 4Refresher training on harness use and inspection to be conducted for all personnel working at heights this week

Key Learning

A harness that is worn but not clipped on provides zero protection. The time between putting on a harness and clipping on is the highest-risk moment. Make it a habit: clip on BEFORE you move, every time, without exception.

Discussion Points for Toolbox Talk

• •Why might someone not clip on their harness even when they know they should?
• •How can we create a culture where mates check each other's harness connections before work at height begins?
• •What would you do if you saw a colleague working at height without being clipped on?