Construction industry safety campaigns in the ACT

WorkSafe ACT inspectors will undertake inspections and review information over the coming months relating to work safety in both the local housing construction sector and medium-to-large commercial construction companies in the ACT.

WorkSafe Commissioner Mark McCabe said work safety was of vital importance to every worker and the safety procedures of employers should always be up to date and of the highest standard.

The first campaign will focus on the residential housing construction sector in the ACT.

“This sector is of vital importance to the ACT and it is imperative that it is conducted both efficiently and safely,” McCabe said. “While inspectors will consider all safety matters, five specific issues that will be targeted are:

• fall prevention
• provision of amenities for workers
• site fencing
• site maintenance or housekeeping
• construction induction cards.”

The second campaign will involve an examination of safety management systems implemented by medium-to-large commercial construction companies in the ACT.

“This is to ensure that these companies are taking all of the necessary steps to adhere to the territory’s work safety laws,” McCabe added. “This campaign will involve targeted inspections to ensure that these systems are being complied with on local worksites.

“These campaigns underline the importance of work safety as a constant right and responsibility for all workers. I encourage the construction industry to take this opportunity to strengthen their efforts to improve safety in their workplaces.”