What are the building site fencing requirements?
What are the building site fencing requirements?
Temporary fencing provides a strong visual signal to pedestrians and traffic that this is a construction site and dangerous work may be taking place. It also confines danger and hazards to within the building site and prevents unauthorised entry from people who may not be aware of the dangers, are not properly attired with safety gear or have no training on safety practices.
Although there are no specific NZ Standards for temporary fencing systems, the 2014 NZ Building Code, as regulated by The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, does provide performance standards for building site fencing requirements that must be adhered to -
F5.3.2 Where construction or demolition work presents a hazard in places to which the public has access, barriers shall be provided and shall:
- Be of appropriate height and construction to prevent site hazards from harming traffic or passersby
- Be difficult to climb,
- Have no opening other than those approved by the territorial authority for access and viewing,
- Have no gates or doors which project beyond the site when opened,
- Contain no projection that would be a hazard to traffic or people, and
- Be clearly marked where the barrier itself may otherwise present a hazard to traffic or passersby.
Worksafe NZ also mentions building site fencing requirements under 7.5 Public Safety in the Guidelines for the Provision of Facilities and General Safety in the Construction Industry. These guidelines contain recommendations for employers and others on means of compliance with the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 and regulations.
The following extract can be found on page 66 –
'Excavations are fenced, and, if they are likely to retain water, are covered and securely fenced to prevent access for children. If in public places, they should have warning signs, and warning lights at night.’
‘Adequate security of the site is to be provided during non-working periods. This involves ensuring excavations and openings are covered or fenced, materials are stacked safely, plant immobilised, ladders removed or lowered to the ground.’
Not all Temporary Fencing is Equal
At GHL Temp Fence, we have a huge range of temporary fence products to ensure you meet your building site fencing obligations regardless of the unique circumstances of your site. From shade cloth for dust protection, bracings to prevent the fence from falling, innovative easy to open gates with a gate wheel kit for people and trucks, locking gate keepers for vacant and overnight security and height reduction or dog bars.
Still need some help deciding whether to buy or hire your temporary fencing? GHL can provide quotes for both temporary fence hire and sales, so you can make an informed, cost-effective decision. Call us now on 0800TempFence or visit www.GHLTempFence.co.nz
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