Builders urged to secure sites over the Christmas break

Victorian WorkCover Authority Manager of Construction Practices Allan Beacom said builders and site supervisors could take a number of simple measures to prevent unauthorised access to sites over the summer holiday period.

“For example, installing boundary fencing and ensuring all access points are secured will deter people, especially children, from entering the site to play,” Beacom said.

“Kids are inquisitive and many could see a construction site as an adventure playground. Good security will prevent them making their way onto a construction site and injuring themselves.”

Beacom said the Christmas shutdown across the construction industry made site security an important issue. But a number of simple measures would go a long way in ensuring public safety.

“Where possible remove all plant from the site or otherwise secure it in a manner that minimises any risk to unauthorised people. Chemicals and potentially harmful substances should also be removed from the site,” he said.

“Be vigilant when it comes to electrical safety by ensuring the main switch to the temporary supply is switched off and the meter board is locked.

“It’s also important to ensure partially constructed building elements such as walls and roofs are braced and secured from unexpected strong winds and bad weather.

“Uninstalled roofing and other loose materials have the potential to turn into missiles if not stored and secured correctly.”