The Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) urges all employers, occupiers, principals, and self-employed individuals to implement stronger safety measures in the workplace to prevent fall-related fatalities or injuries. These accidents frequently occur while working on ladders, scaffolds, rooftops or using makeshift equipment, often exacerbated by inadequate safety measures.

Recent statistics on workplace accidents reveal that 79 workers have tragically lost their lives since 2013, with nearly half of these fatalities resulting from falls from height. In 2024 alone, 4 workers have lost their lives due to falls from height. This alarming figure underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures, particularly in high-risk industries such as construction, where falls from height remain the leading cause of fatalities.

SHENA emphasises that all employers, occupiers and principals must take immediate action to implement comprehensive safe work practices to protect their workers from fall-related fatalities. This includes ensuring that all workers receive adequate training in safe working practices at height, using appropriate equipment such as ladders and scaffolds, and employing proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Additionally, workplaces should conduct thorough risk assessments before commencing any work at height and implement effective fall protection systems, such as guardrails and safety nets.

SHENA also stresses the importance of workplaces complying with the Workplace Safety Health Act, Chapter 277, and its regulations. Workplaces must meet legal safety requirements and foster a strong safety culture. In such environments, workers should feel empowered to actively participate in safety initiatives and be encouraged to report unsafe conditions or practices without fear of reprisal.

Earlier this year, SHENA released a “Self-Assessment Checklist: Work at Height” for use and reference by relevant workplaces in Brunei Darussalam.

For more information and references on improving workplace safety and health, please visit SHENA’s website at www.shena.gov.bn.