In March this year SafetyNet reported on the case of Willoworks Pty Ltd, a builder and principal contractor fined $65,000 for placing employees at immediate or imminent risk of exposure to an electrocution hazard. Willoworks have unsuccessfully appealed their sentence.
During an April 2023 site visit a WorkSafe inspector identified that a metal scaffold had been erected within 100mm of an energised service cable, in contravention of No-Go-Zone rules. The scaffolding had been in place since January 2023. The inspector immediately instructed employees to leave the site due to the immediate risk.
In addition to breaching the No-Go-Zone rules, Willoworks had failed to obtain the required Permit to Work (PTW) from the relevant power company as is required for works in a ‘No Go Zone’. Controls documented in the Safe Work Method Statement for scaffold erection had not been implemented.
During the Magistrates’ Court hearing in March 2025 Willoworks pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to the $65,000 fine with conviction recorded.
In the July hearing of Willoworks’ appeal at the County Court it was noted that Wiloloworks was aware of the danger of live power service cables, as indicated by their placing of guarding (that was inadequate) and a sign to indicate it was dangerous, but failed to do anything about it. Numerous workers were exposed to the hazard and the fact that no-one was injured or killed is merely good fortune.
The County Court set aside and reimposed the orders of the Magistrates' Court. The Offender was re-sentenced, with conviction, to pay a fine of $65,000.
Read more: WorkSafe Victoria | Prosecution Result Summaries and Enforceable Undertakings