WorkSafe ACT has reminded Canberra’s workers to stay warm and take precautions to avoid slips, trips and falls in the city’s cold weather season.
Work Safety Commissioner, Greg Jones said that the colder weather often saw injuries across all industries rise as risks increased from exposure to the cold and wet weather.
“Slips, trips and falls do not only occur in industries like construction, but also in retail and hospitality,” Mr Jones said.
“While outdoor workers have an increased safety risk as they are generally more exposed to icy, frosty and wet conditions, risks often present in other workplaces, such as when members of the community enter businesses with wet shoes or umbrellas,” he said.
“I would like to remind the community to be mindful of this and workers to be vigilant in reporting and addressing hazards.”
Mr Jones said wearing suitable protective clothing and shoes with solid grip was critical for workers outside, such as those working on roofs, on construction sites and other capital works projects.
“Employers can also support workers by ensuring they are not exposed to cold temperatures for extended periods by rotating jobs or moving outside work to warmer parts of the day.”
“We want all workers to think safe, work safe and go home safe this winter.”
