Apprentice seriously injured – 5 metre fall through skylight

16 July 2007

WorkSafe Victoria has again warned Victorian employers of the dangers of working at height following an incident yesterday that resulted in a 15 year old apprentice being hospitalised with multiple fractures after falling five metres through a skylight in the Melbourne suburb of Ringwood.

WorkSafe Acting Director of Construction and Utilities Program Allan Beacom said that the incident had all of the elements of a disaster waiting to happen.

“The dangers of falling through skylights when working on roofs are well known, and we have worked extensively with the industry to highlight these dangers and the simple measures needed to prevent them.”

Mr Beacom again reminded construction employers and workers of the need to have preventative measures in place, when working at height.

Mr Beacom said that all work from a height of more than two metres required some form of fall prevention system.

“This can be as simple as the use of rigid covers over skylights or penetrations, barriers or temporary platforms..

Mr Beacom also said it was crucial that employers took into account the age of the worker and provided them with proper instruction, training and supervision.

WorkSafe figures show that younger Victorian workers (aged 24 and under) have a higher rate of injuries requiring hospitalisation than their older and more experienced workmates.

At least 11% of all claims reported by workers aged 24 and under result in hospital admission for at least one day.

“Young workers need more supervision and should never be left to work alone until they can demonstrate the skills required for their job.

WorkSafe Victoria is currently working with a range of Government departments, agencies and community groups with a youth focus to develop guidance regarding particular risks to young workers, and how these risks can be controlled. 

Mr Beacom urged any employer wanting information on how to make their workplaces safer to contact their local WorkSafe office, visit the WorkSafe website (www.worksafe.vic.gov.au) or telephone WorkSafe Advisory Service on 1800 136 089.