In late August, WorkSafe Victoria and SafeWork NSW conducted joint inspections on 22 construction sites in Yarrawonga and Mulwala. Their main focus was on improving safety when working at heights and reducing exposure to harmful crystalline silica dust. However, they also checked for general safety issues.
During these visits, they found and issued 17 improvement notices for various safety concerns. The most common problems were related to electrical risks and inadequate security fencing. They also noticed issues with working at heights, incomplete scaffolds, poor housekeeping, and not following proper safety procedures for high-risk construction work.
Additionally, some sites lacked a safety statement for tasks involving crystalline silica dust.
The goal of these inspections is to ensure that construction businesses along the Victoria-NSW border comply with health and safety requirements. WorkSafe and SafeWork say they are committed to making safety the top priority at all construction sites to prevent injuries and tragedies.
SafeWork NSW also issued a penalty notice for unsafe practices related to falls from heights. Overall, the inspections aimed to address safety issues and promote safer ways of working, particularly regarding high-risk hazards and vehicle movement.