WorkSafe WA conducts construction site security inspections
WorkSafe WA has launched a proactive inspection program which will focus on site security issues on construction sites following multiple incidents in which sites have been accessed by unauthorised persons, exposing them to serious hazards.
The inspection program will look at a number of randomly selected sites across metropolitan and regional areas of the state throughout the 2024/25 financial year.
Inspectors will examine the security measures in place to determine whether sites are suitably secured against unauthorised access and will also conduct general site inspections.
General site inspections will include checking for compliance with work health and safety laws, with a focus on hazards associated with:
- excavations;
- slips, trips and falls, including falls from height;
- temporary electrical installations;
- partially constructed structures;
- stored construction materials; and
- plant and equipment.
Acting WorkSafe WA Commissioner Sally North said the proactive inspection program aimed to assist employers in the construction industry to fulfil their responsibilities for the health and safety of workers and others at their sites.
“The primary goal of our proactive programs is to provide information and to collaboratively work towards a reduction in work-related injuries and illnesses in the industry sectors we target,” North said.
“However, if our inspectors find non-compliance with work health and safety legislation, they will take appropriate action that could include the issuing of verbal directions or notices requiring the situation to be remedied.
“A wide range of safety issues may be present in the construction industry, and site security plays an important role in protecting the public from the hazards of a construction site.
“It’s our aim to make employers fully aware of the risks and supply them with information on the measures that can be put into place to lessen those risks.”