Fall Prevention Strategies for Aged Care Facilities: Roof Safety, Walkways, and Beyond
Aged care facilities have a clear duty of care, to protect residents, staff, and contractors from harm. While much of the focus naturally centres on residents’ wellbeing, it’s critical not to overlook environmental hazards that pose a risk to anyone accessing the facility, especially those working at height or in elevated areas.
From routine roof inspections to maintaining elevated plant platforms and external lighting, fall prevention in aged care settings is about more than compliance, it’s about creating a culture of safety that extends across every level of the facility.
Why Fall Prevention Matters in Aged Care Settings
Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries and fatalities in Australia. In aged care, the risk is compounded by the presence of vulnerable individuals, visiting family members, and a steady flow of contractors and staff accessing potentially hazardous areas.
Common scenarios that require attention include:
- Technicians accessing rooftops for HVAC servicing
- Maintenance workers using ladders or elevated platforms
- Deliveries and materials being moved through loading zones or mezzanines
- Cleaning or repairs near skylights and unguarded roof edges
Each of these tasks presents a fall risk that must be properly managed under the Work Health and Safety Act and relevant Australian Standards.
Key Fall Prevention Systems for Aged Care Facilities
1. Roof Safety Systems
Whether accessed daily or only during inspections, aged care rooftops must be equipped with the appropriate height safety measures:
- Guardrails and non-slip walkways to direct foot traffic and protect against unprotected edges.
- Anchor points and static line systems that allow safe maintenance in areas without physical barriers.
- Skylight protection covers or cages to prevent accidental falls through fragile surfaces.
All systems must be installed in line with AS 1657 (walkways and platforms) and AS/NZS 1891 (fall arrest systems), and certified accordingly.
2. Safe Internal Walkways and Platforms
In some facilities, high storage or plant areas may require access via stairs or elevated walkways. These must be designed to:
- Provide adequate handrails and edge protection
- Feature slip-resistant surfaces
- Remain clear of obstructions and properly illuminated
Routine inspections should be carried out to ensure continued compliance, particularly in spaces infrequently accessed.
3. Ladder Access and Maintenance Points
Where fixed ladders are necessary, they should include:
- Safety cages and rest platforms for longer climbs
- Lockable lower access points to prevent unauthorised use
- Clearly marked signage indicating PPE requirements
If portable ladders are used, fixed brackets must be provided to stabilise them and reduce the risk of movement during use.
Beyond Systems: Policies and Training That Support Safety
Effective fall prevention goes beyond installing equipment, it includes cultivating safe working practices across the facility.
- Risk Assessments: Before any work at height is conducted, a full risk assessment must be performed and documented.
- Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS): These are legally required for tasks involving a risk of falling from two metres or more.
- Competency-Based Training: Anyone working at height must be trained, with refresher training conducted every two years.
- Scheduled Inspections: All height safety equipment, including harnesses and anchor points, must be inspected and recertified at prescribed intervals.
These practices help ensure that systems are not only present, but are used correctly and remain compliant over time.
Protecting Residents and Minimising Disruption
One of the unique challenges in aged care is the need to perform essential maintenance and safety work without disrupting the peace and comfort of residents.
To support this, facilities should:
- Schedule height-related work during off-peak hours
- Use internal access points wherever possible to reduce noise
- Shield worksites from view when near common resident areas
- Choose systems and materials that blend seamlessly with building architecture
At Workplace Access & Safety, we design fall prevention systems with the whole facility in mind, ensuring safety, compliance, and minimal disruption to care.
Workplace Access & Safety: Supporting Safer Aged Care Environments
Aged care operators across Australia trust us to deliver height safety solutions that meet the strictest standards and suit the sensitive nature of care environments. From hazard assessments to compliant installations and ongoing inspections, we help you stay ahead of risk, so your people and your reputation are protected.
Get in touch today to discuss how we can help your aged care facility implement reliable, compliant fall prevention systems that work as hard as your team does.
