Meeting details
- Topic: Preventing Workplace Fall Hazards Through Diligent Planning and Supervision
- Goal: This toolbox talk on workplace fall hazards will review the tragic incident involving James (Jim) Commane and reinforce our commitment to preventing similar accidents in 2026.
The incident: what happened?
In March 2020, a devastating incident occurred at an industrial unit in Ennistymon, North Clare, resulting in the death of James (Jim) Commane. Mr. Commane was assisting construction worker Joe Moloney with the installation of steel beams to extend a mezzanine floor area. During this operation, Mr. Commane fell from a height. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries on April 15, 2020. This incident highlights the severe consequences of inadequate safety protocols when dealing with workplace fall hazards.
The investigation into this fatality was conducted by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). As a result of their findings, Mr. Moloney is now facing six charges under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed that the case proceed to the circuit court, underscoring the gravity of the alleged breaches in safety legislation.
Core safety lesson
- The Hazard: Working at height without proper planning, supervision, and safety measures.
- The Control: Implement a comprehensive work at height safety plan, including risk assessments, appropriate fall protection equipment (e.g., scaffolding, safety nets, harnesses), and adequate supervision by competent personnel.
The failure to adequately plan and supervise work at height is a direct pathway to catastrophic accidents. This isn’t just about having the right equipment; it’s about a systematic approach that begins before any work commences. A robust safety plan ensures that every potential hazard associated with working at height is identified, assessed, and mitigated. This includes understanding the structural integrity of the work area, the stability of any access equipment, and the potential for dropped objects.
Furthermore, the presence of competent supervision is non-negotiable. Supervisors must be trained and experienced in overseeing work at height, capable of recognizing unsafe practices, intervening decisively, and ensuring that all safety procedures are strictly followed. This includes verifying that all personnel involved are properly trained and equipped with the correct personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety harnesses and lanyards, and that they are used correctly. Overlooking any of these elements significantly increases the risk of a devastating workplace fall.
Another critical failure identified in similar incidents is the absence of a written Safety Statement for the specific works being undertaken. A detailed, written Safety Statement is not merely a bureaucratic requirement; it is a living document that outlines all potential hazards, the results of risk assessments, and the specific control measures to be implemented. It serves as a clear roadmap for safe operations, ensuring that everyone on site understands their responsibilities and the procedures in place to prevent accidents, particularly those related to workplace fall hazards.
Supervisor’s discussion guide
- Q1: “Looking at our own equipment today, where is the biggest risk of working at height without proper planning or supervision?”
- Q2: “What are the specific steps we take on this site to ensure a written Safety Statement is developed and followed for all tasks involving potential workplace fall hazards?”
- Q3: “How do we ensure that all personnel involved in work at height are adequately supervised by competent individuals?”
- Q4: “Can you describe a time you identified a potential hazard related to working at height and what steps you took to address it?”
Action plan & inspection
- Verify that a detailed risk assessment has been completed for all current work at height activities.
- Confirm that all personnel involved in work at height have received appropriate training and are wearing correct PPE.
- Inspect all scaffolding, elevated work platforms, and ladder systems for structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.
- Ensure safety nets or other collective protection measures are in place where appropriate.
- Confirm that a competent supervisor is actively overseeing all work at height operations.
Key takeaways
The incident in Ennistymon serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences that can arise from neglecting safety protocols, especially concerning workplace fall hazards. Our commitment to safety must be proactive and unwavering. This means meticulously planning every task, conducting thorough risk assessments, and ensuring that all necessary safety equipment is not only available but also correctly used and maintained.
Supervisors play a pivotal role in reinforcing our safety culture. Your vigilance in overseeing operations, ensuring compliance with our Safety Statement, and actively identifying and mitigating hazards is paramount. By working together and prioritizing safety in every aspect of our work, we can prevent tragedies and ensure that everyone returns home safely at the end of the day. Let’s make 2026 a year free from preventable accidents.
Source & Disclaimer: This toolbox talk is for educational purposes based on public report. Read Original Report
