Page 1688 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

Safety, Health, Environmental & Quality Bulletin No 638

20 September 2018

Fatal Fall

Please see enclosed a safety alert regarding a facility that was shared with us by ExxonMobil.

This incident highlights the dangers when using fall arrest equipment on sites with sharp edges. It is
important to inspect all the equipment before use to check for damage or wear, and to carefully check
the anchor point and area where the lanyard will be under used or will move if a fall occurs.

We regularly use fall arrest equipment on canopies, and the potential for the canopy sheeting edges to
be sharp is very high. We have recently stopped using fall protection based on feet-level anchor points,
due to various problems associated with this type of equipment. Overhead anchor points only are now
being implemented.

When working in any area always check for sharp edges, consider if these edges can be removed,
covered or protected, e.g. using sling protectors to protect slings against sharp edges of panels during
lifting operations. PPE i.e. gloves with a high cut/abrasion resistance should be the last resort to protect
you from the sharp edges, once other control procedures have been identified and implemented.

We are all a product of learning. Every skill we have; everything we know; everything we believe and everything we do has
been learned throughout the course of our lives. Some of us learn best by studying graphs and charts, some through visual
presentations, and some by reading detailed text books. It is important that we receive information in a format that works for
us as individuals! That’s why at Xmo Strata we use a variety of communication platforms such as bulletins, newsletters,
videos etc. However, if you feel there is a better way for us to share health and safety information, please let us know.
Ultimately, your safety is in your hands – but we will do all we can to keep you well informed!