Extension of Transitional Period for Falls from Height Regulations in WA Construction

The following is an abridgement of the article posted by WorkSafe WA.

The transitional period for compliance with regulations governing falls from height on Western Australian (WA) construction sites has been extended. Industrial Relations Minister Simone McGurk has announced that the deadline will now be extended until September 30, 2026, followed by a six-month Statement of Regulatory Intent to further support the transition to the new laws.

WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North emphasised that preventing falls in the construction industry remains a top priority.

“The extension is meant to give the construction industry more time to plan and implement improved safety measures, especially given the high workloads in the sector recently,”

The Work Health and Safety Act 2020, which took effect in WA in March 2022, introduced new safety requirements. Initially, a Statement of Regulatory Intent outlined a supportive approach to compliance for the first 12 months, which was later extended to 24 months.

Special transitional arrangements were introduced for certain sectors, such as the falls from height regulations in construction, which require more time to comply.

Ms. North noted that although many workplaces should have already had systems in place for identifying, assessing, and controlling hazards, the extra time allows them to adapt fully to the new regulations.

“Our aim is to help businesses comply with the updated laws, and this extension reflects that approach.”

A variety of resources are available to assist workplaces, including codes of practice, safety guides, and information sheets. The Code of Practice for Managing the Risk of Falls in Housing Construction has been updated to include additional guidance and is currently open for public comment on WorkSafe’s website until October 18, 2024.

WorkSafe will now move forward with regulatory amendments to implement the Minister's decision.

During the extended transitional period, employers are reminded that the existing regulations under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 will continue to apply.