At Master Builders, we take safety seriously. We are committed to helping you bridge the safety gap to ensure that the future of the industry is safe today and tomorrow. During October, we are supporting the National Safe Work Month campaign, highlighting our commitment to building safe and healthy workplaces for all. 

Highlighting some of the biggest safety issues in the industry can help you identify any potential safety gaps you may have in your workplace. 

The most common high-risk hazards on a construction site are:

• Falling from heights
• Being hit by moving objects
• Rushing and working under the pump
• Being electrocuted
• Slip, trip, fall accidents
• Ladders
• Manual handling

In the five years (2015 - 2019), falls from a height accounted for 13% of worker fatalities (122 fatalities) Source: Safe Work Australia, 2020.

According to Master Builders Safety Advisor and Trainer Graham Stewart, “The number one cause of injury on a worksite, in my experience, comes down to rushing,” says Graham. “Worksites are busy, there is always a lot to get done and time pressure to do the work, especially if time is lost due to weather. I advise strongly against a culture of working under the pump.”

The most common cause of time off work as a tradie, is due to hand injuries, with an average of 13 weeks. This represents a significant cost to the employer and distress to the worker.  

Graham’s tips for keeping everyone safe at work include: 

• Adhering strictly to all safety protocols
• Keeping open lines of communication between colleagues and supervisors
• If in doubt, stop and discuss 
• Ensure you are warmed up to work, stretch your body, even your hands
• Wear the appropriate workwear and PPE for the job you are doing
• Do not cut corners
• Never take safety for granted, revisit your training, and keep the conversation going. 

Safety is everyone’s responsibility in the workplace. To help you bridge the safety gap Master Builders have a range of education and training programs suitable for everyone in the industry.  

From Work Safely at Heights, and Manual Handling training, to First Aid accreditation, Mental Health, and Asbestos Awareness. The training courses are scheduled throughout the year and are a combination of face-to-face practical training, and online. All are designed to educate tradies with the skills and knowledge to minimize risk and keep everyone safe on site.  

To enrol into any of our health and safety training courses, visit our website mbansw.asn.au/training or call the Master Builders Education Centre on 8586 3588.