Secure construction sites can prevent tragedy

WorkCover NSW has issued a reminder to controllers of construction sites to ensure that locations are adequately secured during the summer holiday period.

Rob Thomson, Acting WorkCover NSW CEO, said it is important that construction sites are fenced off to prevent unauthorised access during the holiday shutdown period: “Site controllers need to address the risks that unsecured construction sites can pose to the members of the public, especially children.

“NSW Occupational Health and Safety laws require construction sites to have adequate site security, which includes appropriate fencing. Building sites around residential areas pose a heightened risk, particularly as there are more children in the vicinity due to the school holidays.

“This year has also seen a significant increase in building work undertaken at schools across NSW and it is important that construction sites within schools are adequately secured.

“It is essential not to overlook excavation areas that can fill with water and pose a potential drowning risk, such as pits, trenches and pier holes. All site controllers need to ensure these areas are securely covered.”

Over the past five years, more than 40 infringement notices have been issued in relation to unauthorised persons accessing construction sites.

Site controllers should conduct site-specific risk assessments to determine fencing requirements and ensure that while sites are unattended, electrical power is off; access to elevated floors, scaffolding and ladders is blocked; plant, equipment, tools, chemicals and dangerous goods are securely stored; water drums are emptied; excavation areas such as pits, trenches and pier holes are covered; appropriate signage is erected with contact telephone numbers; and adequate site security is provided.

Site controllers can follow simple steps to help prevent a potential tragedy by minimising the risk of access to a site by unauthorised individuals.

More information on construction site security and fencing is available from
www.workcover.nsw.gov.au.