Multiple and serious breaches of Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws were uncovered by WorkSafe ACT last week (16 September), just days after the residential construction sector was permitted to recommence work during the Territory’s lockdown.
Commissioner for Work Health and Safety, Jacqueline Agius said she was “extremely disappointed” with the sector after personally witnessing breaches of WHS laws and requirements to work in a COVID-safe way during lockdown.
“There were very few workplaces today (16 September) that were COVID compliant,” Commissioner Agius said.
“A number of these breaches were so significant that I called in ACT Policing to assist us,” she said.
“Finding these breaches, across work health and safety and public health frameworks, and in such numbers is inexcusable.”
Commissioner Agius said the breaches put workers at significant risk of harm and put the whole community at risk of COVID-19 infection.
“I simply won’t have it,” the Commissioner said.
She said WorkSafe inspectors closed four worksites due to COVID-19 non-compliance, issued eight prohibitions and issued 27 improvement notices in just three and a half hours while conducting inspections in Strathnairn.
Commissioner Agius said the notices issued related to a range of WHS breaches including site security; site induction; falls from heights; inadequate supervision of workers; and provision of suitable amenities.
She said COVID-19 related non-compliance included inadequate COVID-Safety Plans, no COVID marshals and no, or incorrect, QR codes.
Commissioner Agius said she was planning to contact three builders personally to commend them on their COVID-19 compliance measures and their dedication to keeping Canberrans safe.
