The Victorian WorkCover Authority (VWA) and WorkCover NSW have teamed up to deliver a joint safety project with local construction businesses to raise awareness of the similarities of safety legislation on either side of the border.

During the project, inspectors from both safety regulators visit construction sites in both states to explain the similarities between NSW and Victorian health and safety laws, address the perceived impediments to working across the border and ensure health and safety compliance.

General Manager of WorkCover NSW’s Work Health and Safety Division, Peter Dunphy said the project aimed to increase certainty, reduce the regulatory burden and address some of the challenges construction industry businesses face working along the border.

“Many construction companies are based in one state but undertake work in the other,” Mr Dunphy said.

“This has created confusion about the differences between NSW and Victorian health and safety laws and the perception that they have to comply to a completely different set of safety requirements if the work across the border.

“Regardless of which state you work in, the risks and controls on construction sites are well known, as are the control measures that should be in place.

“Each state has the same or similar requirements for high risk work licences, plant operator competencies and accepts the other states’ safe work method statements and builder’s plans.”

Allan Beacom, the VWA’s Construction Unit manager, said the project aimed to reduce injuries and deaths from unsafe work practices in construction sites in border areas.

“We want to improve the ability of builders and sub-contractors to recognise, manage and control construction hazards and risks on both sides of the border,” Mr Beacom said.