Large-scale construction to reopen

On Friday, 3 September 2021, large-scale construction can return to work.

In resuming work, all large-scale construction sites in the ACT must comply with the Work Health and Safety laws.

PCBUs and principal contractors must ensure the health and safety of workers returning onsite. WorkSafe ACT Inspectors will be conducting a targeted compliance campaign to ensure duties are being met.

Common safety risks that PCBUs must continue to appropriately manage include:

• Falling from heights (including objects and equipment)
• Working with scaffolding
• Electrical inspections
• Entry and exit points to sites, and
• Silica dust exposure.

What are WorkSafe ACT inspectors looking for?

WorkSafe ACT reminds PCBUs not to be complacent about work health and safety when returning to work. The site circumstances may have changed since lockdown and worker induction, training and supervision are critical to manage the risks on a construction site. WorkSafe ACT Inspectors will be reviewing safe systems of work, induction and training records and safe work method statements (SWMS). As part of this, Inspectors will also be checking that COVID Safety Plans are in place.

You can find more information about managing WHS in building and construction here and information about COVID-19 requirements can be found on the ACT COVD-19 website.

WorkSafe ACT can be reached on 13 22 81 during business hours, after hours on 0419 120 028 or email at worksafe@worksafe.act.gov.au