Don’t risk your life for holiday deadlines, WorkSafe ACT urges
WorkSafe ACT conducted inspections this holiday season at residential construction sites in Whitlam as part of Operation Safe Prospect.
The following is article is an abridgement of an article originally published on the WorkSafe ACT website.
Operation Safe Prospect
WorkSafe ACT launched Operation Safe Prospect in August 2020 after two workers died on construction sites in Denman prospect. The operation aims to improve safety standards in residential construction.
On Tuesday, 5th December 2023, WorkSafe ACT inspectors visited 29 sites in Whitlam and issued 24 improvement notices, 24 prohibition notices and 4 infringement notices.
Risk of falls from heights
Eight of the prohibition notices were related to the risk of falls from heights, which is a serious breach of work health and safety regulations.
Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius expressed her disappointment and frustration with the industry, as most of the notices were issued to repeat offenders.
“It is frustrating and concerning that we are continuing to see so many serious breaches, particularly in relation to falls from heights.”
She said that WorkSafe ACT would investigate these breaches and pursue prosecutions where appropriate.
Holiday season pressure
This time of year can come with enormous pressure as many worksites, businesses and workers push to complete work before they break for the holidays. Ms Agius urges everyone to be patient, understanding and realistic in December.
“We should all take a step back and consider the priorities. We want everyone to spend the holiday season with their loved ones. No one should die for a deadline.”
Sources
Don't fall for unsafe work this Christmas by WorkSafe ACT, 8th December, 2023.
