From 18th to 22nd November, a joint operation was carried out by two regulatory bodies, conducting inspections of 36 construction sites in Mildura and its surrounding areas. This operation acted as an opportunity not only for enforcing safety standards, but also for educating on the importance of measures such as Bluesafe WHS Management Systems, Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) and diligent safety policies.
The WorkSafe regulators performed 22 site visits during this period, issuing improvement notices related to various issues. Ten of these notices were for site security problems, seven addressed inadequate facility conditions, while electrical problems and housekeeping matters led to two each. Another notice was issued due to the absence of a coordination plan. In addition to these, hazards that could be promptly rectified were identified, such as electrical meter box and scaffold-related matters.
SafeWork NSW issued one prohibition notice connected to unsafe procedures in confined space work. Despite this, it was encouraging to note a decrease in non-conformance instances regarding other high-risk tasks like working at heights. Another 42 improvement notices were primarily for concerns with site security, signage, amenities, electrical testing, tagging and the lack of white cards.
Ben Sullivan, the WorkSafe Director of Construction and Earth Resources, emphasised that inspections aren’t solely about identifying violations. They are also crucial in starting conversations about safety, fostering information exchange, as well as ensuring the comprehensive utility of systems like Bluesafe SWMS in enabling safe site operations.
According to Mr Sullivan, cross-border operations aim to raise awareness critical safety matters plaguing construction workers in Mildura and further. This includes hazards related to falls, psychosocial issues like bullying, intense workloads, and fatigue that have become prevalent within the industry. He stressed that while most employers are compliant, constant vigilance, is key in the construction industry due to its inherent risks.
Ainslie Lalor, SafeWork NSW Director of Operation for South Region, observed some lapses standard amenities and site security in the visited sites. However, she maintained that these inspections were generally well received. She went on to comment that such initiatives are pivotal in ensuring that workers are safe, while also providing an opportunity to interact with construction workers in areas like Buronga and GolGol to discuss work site safety in more depth.
While some days of the operation saw extreme temperatures which reduced the amount of high-risk tasks, this operation led to enhanced work health and safety standards at the visited sites. This upward trend, along with shared advice and consistent consultation, should be sustained.
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-12/construction-border-blitz-inspects-dozens-mildura-sites