Descent of false car in lift well causes serious injuries to workers (27 October 2023)

Two workers were working from a false car platform to install lift rails in a lift well. While descending the false car fell approximately 15-20m into the crash protection deck below. One worker sustained serious spinal injuries and the other worker suffered head lacerations and bruising.

False car platform descended in lift shaft causing serious injuries

Safety information

A false car is a temporary work platform used during the installation of a lift to provide a working area designed to prevent workers from falling. Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with the operation of false car platforms in lift shafts.

Ensure:

  • a SafeWork Method Statement (SWMS) specific to the high-risk construction works is completed prior to any works commencing and revised prior to any changes to the false car assembly
  • an emergency response plan (ERP) applicable to the work is developed and implemented
  • installations are completed by competent persons holding the relevant high risk work licences (HRWL) if the activity involves high risk work
  • protective decking is provided above each working area
  • robust lift well enclosures are securely fixed to control the risk of falls into the lift well, prevent materials falling into the lift well and to prevent unauthorised access at all access locations
  • lighting for the lift installation and provision of power is provided for safe access, safe working condition and safe egress
  • all persons working on a lift or related equipment within a well or carrying out risk assessments, should possess demonstratable competence in basic lift safety and procedures.
  • all false car components are fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations or the recommendations of a competent person including the wire ropes are the correct length fitted with end loop and clamps, guardrails in place, and emergency stop buttons are in proper working condition
  • daily pre-operational checks and maintenance procedures are established, implemented and monitored. Checks include but are not limited to:
    • visual inspection of lift well ensuring path is clear of obstructions
    • visual inspection of the suspension system for wear, broken strands, corrosion, wire distortion, reduction in diameter and lengthening of the lay
    • visual check of the wire rope of the device which operated independent of the hoisting winch and false car safety gear from broken wires, surface wear, corrosion, wire or strand distortion, reduction in diameter and lengthening of lay.
  • periodic tests are completed by a competent person as per the manufacturer's instructions or at a maximum of 3 monthly intervals
  • written records of all maintenance, inspection and repairs shall be signed by those completing the works and kept on site
  • clear communication protocols have been established and tested daily between the operators, personnel involved in the operation and other workers on the site
  • ensure the false car has the maximum safe working load limit prominently displayed in kilograms and this will not be exceeded.

Related guidance material

Further information

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