NT WorkSafe urges all the Top End Businesses to take immediate measures to prepare for the cyclone season. Businesses should review their emergency plans and should ensure all workers are aware of what action to take in the event of a severe storm or cyclone.
Emergency plans should be clearly written and easy to understand. Where relevant, they should address, but not be limited to:
- Hazards in the workplace.
- Responsibility of workers in the event of a severe storm or cyclone.
- Briefings for workers.
- Securing materials and equipment on worksites.
- Safe storage of material unable to be secured.
- Protection, dismantling and securing plant.
- Security of services (e.g. water, gas main).
- Monitoring forecasts and weather conditions.
- Evacuation procedures.
Additional requirements for construction sites
- If possible, remove scaffolding, ladders, shoring and formwork all scaffold planks should be secured against uplift during cyclone season
- Protect trenches and excavations either by covering or backfilling.
- Brace temporary or unfinished structures.
- Secure all construction material to prevent uplift.
- Follow manufacturer instructions on securing mobile plant.
- Check perimeter fencing is braced and secured, including locking all gates and entry points.
Further information
For further information, please refer to the following:
Safety Alert
Emergency plans and aftermath
Codes of Practice
Managing the work environment and facilities
