As the builder and principal contractor for the construction of four three-storey town houses, Willoworks Pty Ltd engaged a scaffolding contractor to provide and install scaffold on the site. The installation of the scaffold was further subcontracted to other companies.
In January 2023 a metal scaffold was erected within 100mm of an energised service cable. The service cable remained live and in the vicinity of the scaffold until April 2023. During this time, Willoworks placed an orange bollard and a sign reading “Danger Live Power” over the service cable.
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In April 2023 a WorkSafe inspector visited the site and upon observing the metal scaffold and live power service cable, immediately issued a direction for all workers to leave the site due to their belief that there was an immediate or imminent exposure to an electrocution hazard. Later that day the inspector received confirmation that the service cable had been disconnected. The inspector also learned that no Permit to Work (PTW) was obtained from the relevant power company as is required for works in a ‘No Go Zone’.
No Go Zones and PTWs are addressed in industry guidance. Essentially, if scaffold comes within 4.6 metres of a service line (the No Go Zone), then assessment and discussion with the power distribution company is crucial for safety before work proceeds. The power distribution company may issue a PTW or provide advice on clearance distances if a PTW is not necessary. Work shall be carried out under any conditions detailed in the PTW.
Despite having a Safe Work Method Statement for scaffold erection containing controls for the identified risk of work near live electrical lines, those controls were not implemented.
Willoworks pleaded guilty to its failure to reduce or eliminate the risk of serious injury or death from electrocution if the service cable contacted the scaffold, and was convicted and fined $65,000.
Read more: Prosecution Result Summaries and Enforceable Undertakings | WorkSafe Victoria
