WorkSafe Victoria zeros in on demolition site safety

Substandard demolition work is being targeted by WorkSafe Victoria as it embarks on a month-long blitz around the state.

Demolition can be a dangerous activity, so it is important for companies and workers to follow correct safety procedures when undertaking this type of work.

The inspectors will visit more than 800 demolition and constructions sights to ensure the appropriate safety procedures are being carried out.

“Too often WorkSafe inspectors have had to attend sites where demolition has gone wrong or work practices have put people at risk,” said Dermot Moody, WorkSafe construction program manager.

“By zeroing in on demolition work over the next four weeks we want to drive home the message that those in charge must meet their health and safety responsibilities or face the consequences.”

Two recent incidents in Melbourne — a wall collapse at a demolition site in North Melbourne and the discovery of asbestos-containing material in the rubble of a demolished hotel in Carlton — underline the importance of ensuring safe demolition practices are followed.

“During our visits, inspectors will ensure those doing the demolition have identified the hazards and controlled the risks,” Moody said.

“Inspectors will also verify compliance with the laws associated with construction work and asbestos removal.”

Moody said that if an inspector identifies substandard demolition practices, work will be stopped immediately.

“The work will not recommence until the inspector is satisfied that the person in charge of the demolition has rectified all the safety issues,” Moody said.

While the majority of demolition companies follow the rules, a small number put workers and the public at risk by rushing jobs and trying to cut corners.

“It is a tragic reality that when a demolition goes wrong the consequences for workers or the public, such as crush injuries, falling objects and exposure to hazardous substances, can be serious, or even fatal,” Moody said.

“It’s why planning the demolition process and monitoring the progress of the work is crucial to safety.”

During the campaign, inspectors will pay particular attention to a range of risks, such as:

• isolation of services such as power, water and gas;
• ensuring asbestos has been identified and removed before demolition begins;
• site security;
• public protection, including protective structures and exclusion zones to prevent falling objects landing outside the site;
• traffic management;
• the safe removal of hazardous substances;
• working at height;
• structural stability at every stage of the process to prevent unplanned collapses.

The WorkSafe campaign will run until mid-December. Members of the public who have safety concerns about demolition sites should phone the WorkSafe Advisory Service on 1800 136 089.

Further information can be found at www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/construction.

Image credit: ©iStockphoto.com/Christopher Steer