The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe weather warning for the Central, Mallee, South West, North Central, West and South Gippsland, Wimmera and parts of the East Gippsland, North East and Northern Country districts.
Widespread damaging south-westerly winds with gusts of up to 100km/h are expected across the state from this afternoon and overnight into Saturday morning, with destructive gusts of up to 120km/h possible along the coast and potential blizzards in alpine areas.
Locations which may be affected include Melbourne, Geelong, Mildura, Horsham, Warrnambool, Maryborough, Ballarat, Stawell, Hamilton, Portland, Wonthaggi, Bacchus Marsh, Dandenong Ranges, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller.
WorkSafe is investigating whether high wind gusts were a contributing factor in the collapse of a tower crane on a construction site at Derrimut on Wednesday, which brought down power lines and caused extensive damage to site fencing and a stationary vehicle.
WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin said the incident was a reminder of employers' obligation to implement control measures and site rules to reduce or eliminate risks.
"Gale-force winds, like any severe weather event, should be treated as a potential hazard that can put a workplace, workers and the general public at risk," Mr Jenkin said.
"Construction areas with temporary fencing, roof sheets, scaffold planks, and unsecured tools or materials are particularly vulnerable during severe weather events, and good housekeeping practices will help protect workers and the general public."
Mr Jenkin said, where possible, duty holders should consider postponing or re-scheduling work outdoors until conditions improved.
"Employers should consult with their workers, including any health and safety representatives, to plan ahead when these forecasts are issued, ensuring their strategy meets individual circumstances," he said.
"This includes ensuring sites are properly inspected and secured before workers head home to reduce the risks posed by high winds overnight and into the weekend."
Tips for working safely in windy conditions:
- Keep the worksite clean, securing objects that could become airborne.
- Examine and strengthen structures to ensure they will remain standing during strong winds.
- Secure scaffolding and other temporary structures so they can't be blown over.
- Where possible, re-schedule work until conditions improve (e.g. cease crane operations until wind speeds turn to acceptable levels).
- Where work proceeds, wear eye protection to stop dust and debris from blowing into the eyes.
- Wear fall protection and secure ladders at the top and bottom.
- Be careful when handling large flat items, such as signs, as they can act as a sail.
