Basic safety planning missing on many construction sites

WorkSafe Victoria inspectors are finding high-risk construction work being performed on up to 20 construction sites every week without a suitable safety plan which can help save lives, prevent injuries and get work done more efficiently.

A review of three months of WorkSafe’s construction site inspections found 226 sites where work had to stop because SWMSs (safe work method statements) were absent, inadequate or not being followed. WorkSafe’s Construction Manager, Alan Beacom, said in most cases the work was also being done unsafely. WorkSafe inspectors are about to begin a state-wide, ‘Back to Basics’ campaign focusing on safety planning for high-risk construction work.

“We will impress on builders and their subcontractors that high-risk construction work - like working at height, use of mobile plant and working near electrical installations - requires good planning and effective supervision.

It is a joint responsibility of builders and subcontractors to ensure SWMSs are produced and followed. “SWMS were introduced in 2007 and became a legal requirement a year later. If they’re not in place or being followed, builders and subcontractors should not permit work to start or continue.

“Unfortunately, even after five years some builders and subcontractors have not fully implemented SWMS into their businesses. It’s putting their workers and businesses at risk.”

WorkSafe’s 12-month back to basics campaign will look at a range of safety issues beginning with induction and training as well as site housekeeping. “The effect of this enforcement action may be that work is disrupted and delayed while the safety issues are resolved.

“Having everything in place when the inspector arrives means the visit will be quick and everyone will be able to get on with the job.”

Information on a range of construction industry health and safety issues including high-risk construction work, SWMSs and a detailed ‘Back to Basics’ checklist can be found at www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/construction.