WorkSafe Victoria inspectors are increasingly finding high risk construction work being performed on sites without a suitable safety plan.

 

Inspectors have found an average of 20 sites per week completing high risk work without a plan, most of which are being done unsafely.

 

WorkSafe Victoria recently conducted a three month review of construction site inspections, finding that 226 sites where work had to stop because requisite plans were absent, inadequate or not being followed.

 

In response to the findings, WorkSafe has launched a state-wide ‘Back to Basics’ campaign focusing on safety planning for high risk construction sites.

 

”We will impress on builders and their sub-contractors that high risk construction work – like working at height, use of mobile plant and working near electrical installations - requires good planning and effective supervision,” WorkSafe’s Construction Manage Alan Beacom said.

 

“Safe Work Methods (SWMS) were introduced in 2007 and became a legal requirement a year later. If they’re not in place or being followed builders and sub-contractors should not permit work to start or continue.

 

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

 

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