Apprentice training and supervision: Working at heights
Australian Apprentices are a valued part of the ACT’s economy and community. WorkSafe ACT has observed an increasing number of apprentices who have not received the correct induction and supervision and are being placed at risk of serious harm at the workplace.
Under the ACT’s work health and safety (WHS) laws, persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) must ensure that workers are suitably trained, equipped, and supervised. This is a duty that applies to all workers, regardless of their age, and includes apprentices.
Failure to comply with this duty could lead to regulatory action being taken, including prosecution, and may result in substantial monetary penalties.
Below are examples of serious WHS breaches where apprentices have been exposed to the risks of working at heights without correct safety measures.
SUPERVISION OF APPRENTICES
Apprentices must be supervised by a suitably qualified person. Supervision of apprentices falls into two categories: Direct and General.
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Direct supervision | Direct supervision means supervision at all times on a one-on-one basis. The supervisor must be able to see or hear the apprentice while on the construction site and provide specific and constant guidance to the Australian Apprentice. |
General supervision | General supervision means being under instruction and direction for tasks being performed. The supervisor must remain on the same work site as the Australian Apprentice and regularly communicate with the apprentice (this cannot be done via phone). Supervision should be at a maximum ratio of one (1) supervisor to five (5) apprentices. |
Supervisors should determine the level of supervision required following a risk assessment of the work health and safety issues and the level of competency of the Australian Apprentice for the tasks to be completed. If in doubt, provide additional support until the individual meets the industry standard. First and second year apprentices typically require direct supervision. The Australian Apprentice should only move from direct supervision to general supervision for those skills where they have demonstrated competence.
More information can be found on the WorkSafe ACT Supervision of Apprentices guidance note.
WORKING AT HEIGHTS
In recent weeks, WorkSafe ACT has issued notices for WHS breaches where apprentices have been exposed to the risks of working at heights. This trend is disturbing due to the high possibility of debilitating injury and even death from falling from these heights. Falls from height are one of the most harmful injuries that can occur on a worksite. They can result in serious injury, permanent disability and even death. Falling from heights causes 25% of housing and construction fatalities.
If you would like to learn more about falls from heights and the life-changing devastation they cause to workers, watch the Jayson’s story video or visit Working at heights - WorkSafe ACT.
WHERE TO GO FOR HELP
Falls from height, even if they have not resulted in injury, are notifiable incidents and must be reported to WorkSafe ACT immediately. PCBUs can call WorkSafe ACT on 13 22 81, after hours on 0419 120 028 or email at worksafe@worksafe.act.gov.au to notify an incident. Notification can also be made using the online form available on the WorkSafe ACT website.
If you are an apprentice and you have a concern about your induction or supervision, you can contact us using the information above or you can send us an anonymous report using this form: Report a workplace concern or issue.
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