Secure worksites ahead of high winds

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning with damaging to locally destructive winds expected across Central, South West, North Central and parts of East Gippsland, North East, West and South Gippsland and Wimmera Forecast Districts.

WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety Narelle Beer said employers have an obligation to ensure workplaces are properly inspected and loose items secured.

"Strong winds can turn unsecured objects into dangerous projectiles, including partly completed structures, roof sheets, scaffold planks, temporary fencing, and unsecured tools," Dr Beer said.

"Loose objects must be removed or suitably secured so that they don't blow away and become a danger to workers and the general public."

Dr Beer said it was critical employers ensure sites are properly inspected before workers head home for the evening to reduce the risks posed by high winds overnight.