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The Canberra Times
The Canberra Times
National
Lanie Tindale

'Dangerous' construction industry continues to put workers at risk: WorkSafe

Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius. Picture: Sitthixay Ditthavong

Canberra construction workers are continually being put at risk by dangerous workplace practices, the ACT's Work Health and Safety Commissioner says.

Jacqueline Agius says she is "frustrated" that the same work health safety breaches are continually being observed, despite a campaign to improve safety.

A special project was launched by WorkSafe ACT following the deaths of two construction workers in early 2020.

"We continue to observe unsafe work practices and significant breaches of the work health and safety laws," Ms Agius said.

"Those responsible are not adequately managing site security or providing suitable worker amenities, and they are not adequately managing falls from heights.

"This is frustrating, disappointing and dangerous."

WorkSafe ACT said since Operation Safe Prospect was launched in 2020, it has issued 2132 notices over 1363 workplace visits.

This means more notices have been issued than locations visited.

The notices issued include 1655 improvement notices, 385 prohibition notices and 92 infringement notices.

Examples of notices can include sites not being secured with missing fence panels, no toilets or they are not maintained, exposed voids and incorrect use of ladders.

Michael Hopkins, the chief executive of Master Builders ACT said they have been working constructively with WorkSafe ACT over the last two years to "drive home the message about undertaking safe practices".

"While we're pleased to see an overall improvement in the sector, we're still disappointed to see some repeat offenders who are not making safety their number one priority," he said.

The association will continue collaborating with WorkSafe ACT to "prioritise safety", which Mr Hopkins said has been a constant priority. "The MBA has been running training programs for members to upskill and providing information on industry best practice and new safety measures," he said.

WorkSafe ACT is calling for anyone who has witnessed unsafe practices or safety rule breaches to get in contact.

"If you see something on a worksite that isn't right, let us know. If you have hired a builder and your instincts tell you they are cutting corners when it comes to health and safety, reach out to us," the regulator said in a statement.

"You can reach WorkSafe ACT during business hours on 6207 3000, after hours on 0419 120 028 or email us at media@worksafe.act.gov.au."

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