^{SafeWork NSW}

Construction sites across northern Sydney can expect a visit from SafeWork Inspectors this week who will be targeting unsafe working systems across all building trades.

Meagan McCool Safework NSW Director of Construction Metropolitan said as part of a state-wide crackdown on the industry, Inspectors will be focusing on scaffolding, working at height, site housekeeping including the condition of amenities, falling objects, electrical, moving plant operations, site security and controlling risks related to silica and asbestos.

“Starting April 29, SafeWork will be undertaking a compliance blitz on construction sites to make sure those most at risk from workplace injury are protected by safe systems of work,” Ms McCool said.

“Far too often our inspectors identify concerns with the way scaffolding is set up and other dangers involving working from heights so we will be targeting this area in particular.

“Falls from heights are the number one killer on NSW construction sites with most people who are seriously injured or killed falling from a height of four metres or less,” Ms McCool said.

Cleanliness of a site can also be a good indicator of safety and work standards.

“A safe construction site starts with a clean site and we’re seeing an unacceptable drop in standards across the construction industry,” Ms McCool said.

“Having a well-maintained site is also a good indicator of the quality of the work being done. If the site managers won’t remove trip and fire hazards like piles of rubbish from the site or keep the amenities serviced and clean, there’s a good chance that building standards will be haphazard as well.”

“Those not meeting standards can expect strong compliance action to prevent workers being put at risk or consumers getting sub-standard work,” Ms McCool said.

On-the-spot fines of $3,600 for corporations and $720 for individuals can be issued to businesses who place workers lives at risk through inadequate protection from falls from heights, or for those who undertake high risk work requiring a licence, or those undertaking unsafe silica practices.

SafeWork offers advisory services to builders and trades persons to assist achieve safe sites. For assistance, builders and trades persons are encouraged to contact SafeWork on 13 10 50 or visit www.safework.nsw.gov.au.