WorkSafe ‘toolbox talk’ for local builders in ACT

ACT WorkSafe and the Master Builders Association of ACT, in conjunction with Blackett Homes, recently hosted a lunchtime ‘toolbox talk’ for builders and tradespeople.

The event was also attended by WorkSafe ACT inspectors who answered questions in the informal setting.

At the event, the ACT Work Safety Commissioner Mark McCabe spoke about key health and safety requirements expected from builders in the ACT’s residential sector, including the following topics:

• fall from heights protection;
• provision of amenities;
• site maintenance or housekeeping;
• fencing; and
• construction induction cards.

“Over the years, inspectors from WorkSafe ACT and its predecessors have provided guidance material about safety on construction sites, issued numerous warnings, attended a considerable number of worksites and investigated many incidents, including some fatalities, yet workplace injuries still occur,” McCabe said. “While falls from heights continue to be the main area of concern on construction sites, there are many more factors that employers and employees need to consider each and every day they are on the job, particularly in residential construction.

“The purpose of the toolbox talk is to remind construction employers and workers that it is imperative to proactively work to make their sites as safe as they can reasonably be.

“Working in the construction industry can be a dangerous occupation and the talk highlights the hazards associated with the profession and ways to prevent incidents. Workplace health and safety must be the number-one priority and is the responsibility of both employers and workers.