Commercial construction: back to work
Large-scale construction operators in the ACT are set to head back to work from Friday 3 September 2021.
Work Health and Safety Commissioner, Jacqueline Agius, reminds duty holders not to be cavalier in managing work health and safety risks posed by this complex industry.
“Keeping ACT workers safe is my priority. Resuming large-scale construction work means work health and safety must be front of mind. I want to make it very clear that I am expecting that all work health and safety duties are met in this sector and that workers are returning to a healthy and safe workplace.”
Sites recommencing work must ensure that workers are re-inducted to the site and trained to carry out their work safely. Supervision also plays a key role in ensuring safe systems of work and controlling work health and safety risks.
WorkSafe ACT inspectors will be conducting a compliance campaign that focuses on the site’s safe systems of work including safe work method statements, scaffolding, form work, electrical distribution boards and general site management.
Commissioner Agius says that communication will be critical in keeping workers safe on newly reopened large-scale construction sites.
“PCBUs and principal contractors must consult and communicate clearly and regularly with each other and their workers. Whether it’s through a physically distanced toolbox talk or providing information using videoconferencing, on and offsite, everyone must be kept informed of the processes that will keep them healthy and safe.”
Large-scale construction should expect site visits from WorkSafe ACT Inspectors and have their work health and safety systems, including COVID Safety Plans, firmly in place. Commissioner Agius will also form part of the team of Inspectors conducting these audits, scheduled to begin on Friday.
“Returning to work is not a race and managing work health and safety risks when returning after a lockdown is not simple. WorkSafe ACT will continue to provide guidance as the industry returns and we will support this through active enforcement of the Work Health and Safety laws to keep workers and the community safe.”
Media contacts
Adelaide Haynes0477 601 188
Jackii Shepherd 0414 997 976
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