The Territory’s Work Health and Safety Commissioner is calling on the Canberra community to help curb safety breaches in the residential construction sector.
In the lead up to the launch of WorkSafe ACT’s residential construction strategy this June, Commissioner Jacqueline Agius urged all homeowners never to enter a building site without the escort of a builder and to remain vigilant when onsite.
“As a community we all play a role in supporting each other to come home safely from work,” Commissioner Agius said.
“I am asking Canberra to put health and safety first,” she said.
“If you see something on a worksite that isn’t right, let us know.
“If you have hired a builder and your instincts tell you they are cutting corners when it comes to health and safety, reach out to us.”
Commissioner Agius said WorkSafe wanted to work with the community to make sure that all workplaces were safe for all workers.
“We are here and available over the phone and by email,” she said.
“You can contact us, and we can and will respond accordingly.”
The Commissioner said WorkSafe inspectors were observing the same Work Health and Safety (WHS) breaches in residential construction time and time again.
“We continue to observe unsafe work practices and significant breaches of the work health and safety laws,” she said.
“Those responsible are not adequately managing site security or providing suitable worker amenities, and they are not adequately managing falls from heights.
“This is frustrating, disappointing and dangerous.”
Commissioner Agius said WorkSafe ACT could be reached during business hours on 6207 3000, after hours on 0419 120 028, or by email at [email protected].
