WorkSafe Victoria has provided guidance for several industries following the Bureau of Meteorology’s (BOM) issuance of a severe weather warning.
BOM has advised of severe weather conditions across Central, Mallee, South West, North Central, West and South Gippsland, Wimmera and parts of the East Gippsland, North East and Northern Country districts.
The weather warning comes after the winds with gusts of up to 100km/h were predicted across Victorian on Friday afternoon and into the weekend on Saturday morning. Gusts of up to 115km/h are possible in coast areas.
Melbourne, Geelong, Mildura, Horsham, Warrnambool, Maryborough, Ballarat, Stawell, Hamilton, Portland, Wonthaggi, Bacchus Marsh, Dandenong Ranges, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller could also be impacted.
WorkSafe chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin said employers had an obligation to to implement control measures.
“Gale-force winds, like any severe weather event, should be treated as a potential hazard that can put a workplace, workers and the general public at risk,” he said.
“Construction areas with temporary fencing, roof sheets, scaffold planks, and unsecured tools or materials are particularly vulnerable during severe weather events, and good housekeeping practices will help protect workers and the general public.
“Employers should consult with their workers, including any health and safety representatives, to plan ahead when these forecasts are issued, ensuring their strategy meets individual circumstances.
“This includes ensuring sites are properly inspected and secured before workers head home to reduce the risks posed by high winds overnight and into the weekend.”
Tips for working safely in windy conditions:
- Keep the worksite clean, securing objects that could become airborne.
- Examine and strengthen structures to ensure they will remain standing during strong winds.
- Secure scaffolding and other temporary structures so they can’t be blown over.
- Where possible, re-schedule work until conditions improve (e.g. cease crane operations until wind speeds turn to acceptable levels).
- Where work proceeds, wear eye protection to stop dust and debris from blowing into the eyes.
- Wear fall protection and secure ladders at the top and bottom.
- Be careful when handling large flat items, such as signs, as they can act as a sail.
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