Strict Covid-19 safety protocols have been implemented across ACT construction sites enabling residential construction to recommence, but ACT Work Health and Safety said some sites are not meeting these obligations.
Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius was conducting inspections on residential construction sites in Strathnairn on Thursday 16 September and reported seeing multiple breaches.
“I am extremely disappointed with what I am seeing today. I have seen multiple and serious breaches of the WHS laws and the requirements for working Covid-safe during lockdown,” she said.
“There were very few workplaces today that were Covid compliant. Some worksites were very well prepared, many were not, and a number of these breaches were so significant that I called in ACT Policing to assist us, who have issued a caution to one particular business.”
Eight prohibitions and 27 improvement notices were issued, while four sites were completely shut down by WorkSafe inspectors, all within three and a half hours.
The breaches ranged from site security, site induction, falls from heights, inadequate supervision of workers, and provision of suitable amenities.
While disappointed with businesses that are not complying with the requirements, Ms Agius commended three builders for the excellent measures they’ve taken on their sites to comply.
“I really commend those businesses and builders who are committed to Covid safety. There were three standouts today and I will be talking to them personally to thank them for their efforts,” she said.
“Finding these breaches, across work health and safety and public health frameworks, and in such numbers is inexcusable. This behaviour puts workers at significant risk of harm, puts us all at risk of Covid-19 infection and I simply won’t have it.”
Master Builders ACT were notified on the day by WorkSafe, and CEO Michael Hopkins said he supports the strong enforcement of the Covid-safe practices.
“As an industry, we have worked extremely hard to get back on the tools and are one of the few sectors permitted to work throughout the Territory’s current lockdown,” Mr Hopkins said.
“We understand that the industry continues to face delays and that the current restrictions mean working at 100 per cent capacity is not an option. However, this is no reason to compromise on the Covid-safe practices that are mandatory.”
He said the MBA will continue to work with the ACT Government to improve the construction industry’s requirements as well as keep them regularly updated on their work.
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