Running Down that Hill

We can use gravity to our best advantage at times, but it is also the force that increases risk as we work on steep ground. Occasionally we have reports of stems escaping the control of the working team and sliding away down a steep slope. We had one such report this month, fortunately on this occasion there wasn’t vulnerable target below the site.

Previously, as pictured, we have had stems cross public roads. When working on steep slopes we must always consider what is below us on the hill, and what can be dislodged to slide or roll away.

Working methods must be selected to reduce the risk of losing control of objects, and suitable mitigation measures taken reduce residual risk.

These will be site specific.