New Zealand
Posted on 10th August 2021 at 16:02
Launching Safety Nets In the Construction Industry
Background
The UK is regarded as the “go to” country for guidance on the use of safety nets. Introduced in 1996 for the protection of roofers in the event of a fall, safety nets are now a regular feature on UK construction sites, protecting mezzanine floor and concrete slab installers as well as deckers and industrial roofers.
The Task
3 Education were approached by Gary Priestly of Gaprie to help develop the market in New Zealand. Safety Nets were a new concept, with the construction industry used to working with harnesses and lanyards in industrial roofing and nothing in housebuilding. Gary had experience of netting in the UK and Ireland for a number of years and identified an opportunity to improve safety at height through the use of safety nets.
Introducing the Safety Net Concept to a new market.
3 Education joined Gaprie on a road show from the North Island to the South Island was the way in which safety nets were introduced to roofers, builders and health and safety professionals. 3 Education were able to introduce the “science” behind safety nets, along with both safety and productivity benefits to workers, employers and clients.
A number of FASET Safety Net Rigging courses were delivered to establish a rigging base upon which the industry could build. 3 Education also mentored Gary as he was trained as a FASET Trainer during the trip.
Outcome
Now into 2021, Gaprie and safety nets as a solution are well established throughout New Zealand. A number of companies supply safety nets to a growing number of installers. There is widespread use of safety nets in housebuild applications and FASET now have a registered presence to develop the work at height safety industry by sharing knowledge developed in the UK. 3 Education have been an integral component of developing the FASET opportunity in New Zealand
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