With most construction sites shutting down over Christmas, contractors and employers are being urged to remove or secure potential hazards at locked down worksites.
Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick said although buildings and other worksites may close over the holiday period, many hazards could pose serious risks to public health.
“Workplace health and safety laws require principal contractors to ensure activities at their workplace are safe and do not pose a risk of injury or illness to members of the public at or near the workplace,” Mr Dick said.
“I urge contractors and employers to consider their responsibilities and reduce common hazards by cleaning up or properly securing worksites during any period of inactivity.”
Mr Dick said the best way to reduce public risk was to ensure building sites are properly fenced and gates are locked.
“Where it is impracticable to fence a site, builders should take additional steps to ensure they effectively control any potential hazards,” Mr Dick said.
“Signs prohibiting access by unauthorised persons should be provided and plant and machinery should be made inoperable to prevent unauthorised and illegal use.
“Loose materials should also be secured to prevent them blowing away in a storm.”
Mr Dick said worksite hazards could include:
- holes in the ground such as trenches and swimming pools under construction, with risks particularly applying to children. Additional precautions are required where the site is close to playgrounds, sports ovals or other public areas;
- falls from heights where the higher surface has no guard rail in place or where access onto an unguarded structure has not been controlled;
- objects that have not been secured against the effects of storms or strong winds;
- objects that are a risk for a person to trip and fall;
- an incomplete or inadequately braced wall which could collapse in strong wind;
- dangerous goods and hazardous substances that have been inadequately disposed of, or have not been stored or locked away.
