In a May 2025 report by WorkSafe Victoria, the message is clear: workplace falls remain a serious concern. Over 1,400 injuries, two tragic fatalities, and $1.65M in fines were recorded in 2024 alone. This article unpacks WorkSafe crackdowns and how certified edge protection from SiteTech Solutions can safeguard your team and prevent costly tragedies.
Why Workplace Falls Are Still the Biggest Threat on Site
Despite known prevention measures, falls from heights tragically remain the leading cause of serious injury and death in the Australian construction industry. The devastating human cost is illustrated by stories like that of Kyle Struhs, a 21-year-old solar installer who died from falling just 2.4 meters. The case reminds us that risks exist even on short jobs at relatively low heights and that simple preventative measures can save lives.
Here’s why workplace falls remain a persistent threat:
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Underestimated Risk: Many underestimate the severity of falls from seemingly low heights.
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Insufficient Standards: Short-duration tasks often lead to skipping key safety protocols.
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Changing Environments: Construction sites constantly change, creating new fall hazards.
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Inadequate Protection: A lack of robust fall prevention systems or over-reliance on individual PPE.
WorkSafe’s 2025 Enforcement Crackdown on Fall Hazards
WorkSafe is taking a tough stance in 2025, actively cracking down on fall hazards before incidents occur. 18 cases are already under criminal investigation for fall risks, and 21 businesses have received formal warnings. WorkSafe Executive Director Sam Jenkin warns they’re now escalating actions on all observed risks, regardless of whether a fall has actually taken place, emphasising a proactive approach to workplace injury prevention.
How Sitetech’s Edge Protection Helps Prevent Falls
SiteTech Solutions specialises in edge protection systems, providing vital passive fall prevention (Level 2 in the Hierarchy of Controls). Here are the advantages they offer and why they matter:
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Ongoing Protection: Our systems offer continuous support, reducing the reliance on individual workers for their own safety.
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Guaranteed Compliance: Our solutions meet stringent safety standards (AS/NZS 4994.1:2009 for EBracket systems), crucial for meeting regulations and avoiding WorkSafe penalties
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Easy & Efficient Setup: Systems like our EBracket are largely assembled from the ground, significantly minimising installation risks.
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Adaptable & Versatile: Our edge protection adapts across all construction stages, from new builds and roof work to complex solar installations.
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Cost-Effective Safety: EBracket systems can be approximately 40% cheaper than scaffolding, making high-level construction fall prevention both accessible and cost-efficient.
Supporting Safer Builds Across Australia
At SiteTech Solutions, our edge protection systems are trusted by countless businesses and industries across Australia:
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Rooftop Installations: Providing critical safety for all types of roof work.
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Upper-storey builds: Essential for multi-level sites to ensure construction fall prevention.
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Solar Installation: Offering secure environments for efficient and safe solar setups.
Our reputation for fast delivery and expert support means fall prevention systems are on-site when needed, keeping your projects safe and on schedule.
Don’t Wait for a Fall—Act on Safety Now
For construction site safety managers, preventing workplace falls isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about keeping your crew safe and avoiding serious trouble. Don’t risk a devastating accident or hefty fines. Contact SiteTech Solutions today to discuss how our edge protection systems can deliver safety and compliance for your sites.