Builders warned to secure sites for the holidays

Builders and construction workers in the ACT have been warned to comply with fencing and security guidelines to keep children off construction sites in the school holidays.

ACT WorkCover Commissioner, Erich Janssen told Safety Solutions that the principal contractor in control of a site is just as liable for the safety of visitors and passers-by to the site as it is to its own workers.

"To children, construction and demolition sites look like great places to explore and play," he said. "Unfortunately, the consequences of playing in these environments can be serious or fatal for the child."

The warning comes in response to poor compliance during a blitz by inspectors in the July school holidays. Of the 54 sites visited, 43 required follow-up action regarding site fencing, security and safety.

The risks to children on a construction site include injury from falls, electric shock from "live' cables, drowning, suffocation from collapsing material or coming into contact with hazardous materials.

"The July blitz really indicated that there was a need for businesses to take a greater responsibility in ensuring buildings are safe," Janssen said. "Inspectors will again be going out to residential sites and looking at issues surrounding fencing, security and safety. This is an ongoing process."

To comply with security requirements, WorkCover recommends measures such as fencing off the site, fencing off holes, erecting "Keep out" signs and ensuring the site is secure when unattended.

Wendy Cramer, Editor
29/9/06