The construction site fencing requirements in WA can be confusing. But ensuring that your temporary fencing is safe and secure is critical for not just the wellbeing of the public, but also construction workers and your business.

Fencing is an essential component of safety on construction sites. Unfortunately, unauthorised visitors may not be deterred by signs to Keep Out alone. Which is why, here in WA, there are fencing requirements to ensure adequate prevention of injury and even death.

Site Security Responsibilities & Fencing Requirements for Construction Sites

According to Regulation 298 of the Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2022 (WHS General Regulations), the WA Government

“requires a person with management or control of a workplace where construction work is carried out to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the workplace is secured from unauthorised access.”

Apart from the necessary safety requirements, there can be potential legal liability and risk for non-compliance with the fencing requirements for construction sites. The requirements are not always uniform either. If your construction site is considered high-risk or in a location near to a school or children’s playground, the regulations can differ and be even more strict.

In general, WA regulation requires the following from construction site security fencing:

• – Fencing must enclose the entire construction site with no gaps or openings.
• – Fencing must be tall enough to prevent entry.
• – Fencing must be tall enough to be difficult to climb with no footholds.
• – Fencing must be difficult to crawl under.
• – Fencing must be kept clear of other items that could be used to climb over.
• – Fencing must be strong enough to resist standard force such as wind and individuals.
• – Fencing with separate panels must have adequately strong connections.
• – Fencing must have adequately secure gates, entry points and no other ‘weak spots’.

Construction Site Fencing Requirements WA

How high must construction fencing be in WA?

For most construction sites, there is a minimum requirement for fencing to be 1.8 metres tall. It is important to note that this does differ for more risky projects, such as demolition sites, which will require taller fencing.

How do you know that your fencing is considered compliant with anti-climbing regulations?

Fortunately, there are professional, certified suppliers, like the team at WA Temporary Fencing Supplies, who can advise and provide compliant fencing. These designs ensure that unauthorised climbing (or even crawling under) is protected against.

From the mesh of the fence not being too large to the lack of other gaps and footholds, our fencing is completely secure.

Why does the fencing need to be kept clear?

It’s important to note the fencing requirements don’t just relate to the specifications of the fencing itself.

Pallets, bins and other items that are stored near or adjacent to fencing can help unauthorised individuals to scale the fence and climb over. That’s why fencing that is not cleared of such items can be considered non-compliant.

Can temporary fencing have gates?

Of course. Authorised construction workers need to be able to enter through temporary fencing. However, all gates must be lockable allowing the fencing to close completely and ensure an unbroken barrier around the construction site.

Similarly, fencing that features panels or multiple fences joined together must be properly secured to one another so that it can be taken apart or present climbing opportunities for unauthorised individuals.

What else is required from temporary fencing for construction sites?

The temporary fencing itself must also feature some key safety components. Fire retardant mesh is required to ensure that the risk of a fire (intentional or otherwise) is mitigated.

Construction site fencing must also be secure from an environmental forces point of view. It must be able to withstand wind and other normal weather elements without its structure or utility being compromised.

What are the risks of non-compliant temporary fencing for construction sites?

Inadequate site fencing faces significant legal and financial risks. You could be held liable for accidents, injuries and incidents of deaths even for unauthorised individuals who enter the site illegally. There is also the potential of costly lawsuits and damage to your company’s reputation.

Even if there are no incidents onsite, you could face regulatory fines and penalties if your fencing is seen to be non-compliant with safety regulations.

Additionally, inadequate construction site fencing may also lead to theft or vandalism of equipment and materials, causing project delays and financial losses.