A new report has highlighted the growing need for safer job sites, according to the Canberra Times. The report, released in August, shows a 17 per cent spike in serious accidents on local worksites between 2011 and 2012, and has prompted a call for increased safety nationwide. The issue is nothing new, with Safe Work Australia reporting a steady climb in the economic cost of workplace incidents, reaching $60.6 billion over 2008/9.
Injuries often occur from mishandling equipment, such as scissor lifts or cranes. There are several ways to ensure safety when using equipment on the worksite:
1. Understand your equipment
One of the main ways to prevent injuries is to understand your equipment. When hiring equipment, it is important to ensure the highest quality care is offered. Power Access offers the following safety-focused services:
- Preventative Maintenance Program
Power Access will contact you when your machine is due for a quarterly service. - Free Site Visit
Our trade qualified technicians can attend your site in fully equipped service vans and complete a 3 monthly inspection of your Elevating Work Platform. - Workshop Facilities
Power Access offer on site servicing and full workshop facilities at our Wetherill Park Branch.
2. Use the best
When hiring equipment for use on construction sites, it’s important to source the safest and most technologically advanced equipment available. Power Access prides itself on having the latest equipment, such as the newest electric scissor lift in the industry. Genie released their two new scissor lift models earlier this year, and they have been performing successfully in indoor and outdoor sites. Brad Lawrence, General Manager of Genie in Australia, said “these scissor lifts have increased platform space plus increased lifting capacity. It’s a win-win on the work site.”
The Genie Scissor Lift offers convenient operation, compact manoeuvrability and outdoor functionality. There are also various features on the scissor lift which promote safety, such as dual flashing beacons which warn workers when the lift is in operation. Be sure to check out the specs sheet to ensure you hire the right equipment for your job.
3. Foster a culture of safety
Along with using the latest equipment, another good way to prevent injuries on your worksite is to develop a culture of safety. Have regular health and safety training, include workers from all levels in safety consultations, and promote worker accountability. It is also important to keep up with industry news, to ensure the best quality equipment and technology is used. The Safety Show Sydney, put on by the Safety Institute of Australia, will feature the latest safety solutions and services.
4. Industry Events
The Safety Show Sydney will showcase over 150 exhibitors demonstrating the latest technology in safety and free seminars from industry experts all under one roof. Seminars will cover a wide range of topics including how technology is changing the way we undertake onsite safety, emergency planning, contractor management, OH&S program planning and funding, personal protective equipment industry updates and an overview of the latest legislation that will affect your company. Workcover NSW will also be exhibiting and running free interactive workshops.
Power Access service Sydney metro, Newcastle and Wollongong areas for short term hire of scissor lifts and Australia wide for long term scissor lift rentals.