WorkSafe Victoria warns it is cracking down on employers to prevent catastrophic falls and has this year referred dozens of construction businesses for possible legal action.

The workplace health and safety regulator says more than 1400 workers – an average of four a day – were hurt in falls from height in the state last year.  

Two of the incidents were fatal, taking the number of Victorian workers killed in such falls in the past five years to 36.

WorkSafe executive director of health and safety Sam Jenkin says preventing falls is an “enforcement priority” across all industries.

Inspectors are clamping down on risks and are considering more serious action on issues that might previously have prompted an initial improvement notice. 

“Falls from height continue to be a leading cause of fatalities and workplace harm in the construction industry, despite well-known prevention measures, Mr Jenkin said.  

“Fall prevention isn’t an optional extra, it’s the standard, and WorkSafe will take the strongest possible action against those who fail to uphold it.”

Eighteen matters relating to fall risks are being investigated with a view to criminal charges, and another 21 businesses have received formal written warnings.

The construction industry records more serious injuries from falls than any other sector.

“Whether you’re a builder, a subcontractor, employer or anyone with control or management of a workplace, health and safety is your responsibility,” Mr Jenkin said.

Safety measures can include working on the ground; using scaffolds, perimeter screens, guard rails, safety mesh or elevating work platforms; restraint systems that ensure employees work in a safe area; and using a harness, catch platform or safety nets.

WorkSafe’s construction inspectors are conducting targeted “blitzes”, recently visiting 56 sites and issuing 73 notices in Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham, including 10 for fall hazards such as incomplete scaffolding or work at height without guard rails.