SafeWork SA auditing high-risk construction work

From February 2020, inspectors from SafeWork SA will carry out compliance audits on safe work method statements (SWMS) for high-risk construction work (HRCW). SWMS are a key strategy used to reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities in construction sites. HRCW involves 18 activities identified in the WHS Regulations as having significant potential for serious harm from historical national data. SWMS are intended to assist supervisors, workers and other parties at a workplace to understand the requirements that have been established to work in a safe way.

Inspectors will focus on compliance to ensure SWMS for HRCW are site-specific and understood by workers, including those from non-English speaking backgrounds, by using pictures or diagrams. The compliance focus is implemented in recognition of the construction industry being identified as a priority industry in the Australian Work Health and Safety Strategy 2012–2022.

For further information and advice on complying with legislative requirements, contact 1300 365 255.

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