There are plenty of necessary construction projects happening in Australia’s most remote areas right now. It is driven by the need to build critical infrastructure and renewable energy resources to support national growth. While this opportunity is good, it presents several health and safety challenges. As leaders in the construction industry, you need to adopt a more rigorous risk management approach.
Major investments in renewable energy projects like wind and solar farms drive growth in remote construction. There are also plenty of projects in the resource sector, including infrastructure and transport network upgrades, all far from major urban centres.
WorkSafe regulations define remote or isolated work as situations where workers have difficulty obtaining emergency assistance. That can be due to work being performed at geographically distant sites or unusual times by lone workers on large-scale projects.
Due to operations being located in remote places, workers need more protection beyond traditional OHS frameworks. Specific and dedicated strategies need to be implemented to protect against risks when working in isolation.
Key Risks for Remote and Isolated Construction Professionals
Here are some of the most common risks workers face in isolated construction projects:
- Amplified physical risks: Minor accidents can immediately turn into life-threatening situations due to delayed medical response
- Environmental hazards: Extreme temperatures or sudden weather events, such as flash floods and bushfires, can be more severe and less predictable in remote places
- Delayed emergency response: Poor phone reception can cause inadequate communication, blocking workers from finding help
- Toll on mental health and well-being: Increased chances of burnout due to fatigue, loneliness and anxiety derived from being in isolation
Equipment such as boom or scissor lifts helps mitigate the safety risks workers face. During an emergency, you can stop the machine by simply pushing a button. The chances of workers and supplies falling are lower with safety rails and entry gates. Operators can secure themselves to the equipment using lanyard anchor points.
A Framework for Proactive Risk Management
A Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) is legally responsible for managing the risks of isolated work under Australian WHS law. You can start being compliant through a thorough site-specific risk assessment and a solid communication plan. Examples of things to keep in mind are satellite phones, personal locator beacons, check-in call schedules and a documented emergency response plan in case of missed check-ins.
Modern safety technology can further enhance lone worker safety. For example, GPS tracking devices provide precise location data, while safety apps include automated man-down detection. Wearable devices also monitor workers’ vital signs and issue alerts in the event of falls or medical emergencies. Implement modern equipment with built-in safety features to reduce the risk of catastrophic accidents.
You also need to provide training that covers emergency procedures, first aid and mental health awareness to sufficiently equip workers for the remote sites. After all, 38 per cent of construction site deaths are due to a lack of or inadequate safety training. A mentally resilient team is more prepared during emergencies and can ensure a strong safety culture across projects.
Building a Safer Future for Australia’s Remote Workforce
Workers are exposed to extreme weather, hazardous terrain, wildlife and emergencies when working at remote construction sites, putting themselves at risk to complete projects. As leaders of the industry, you can manage the risks associated with remote construction by adopting robust planning, implementing smart technology and selecting safe equipment. It’s important to consider worker safety and wellbeing for all processes and materials.
A proactive and people-first approach helps ensure that remote and ambitious projects are made sustainably and compliantly. After all, people are a company’s most valuable asset.
