SafeWork NSW inspectors have launched an enforcement campaign aimed at improving scaffold safety on construction sites throughout the state as part of their Scaff Safe 2024 initiative.
The campaign comes in response to alarming statistics highlighting falls from heights as the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry.
Falls from unsafe scaffolding are a major contributor to these incidents. In Newcastle, where the campaign is being spearheaded, SafeWork inspectors have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards any practices that put workers’ lives at risk.
Statewide data reveals that ligament, muscle, and tendon damage, along with traumatic joint injuries, are the most common injuries resulting from falls from heights, with over 5,200 incidents reported since 2021/2022.
Scaffold incidents often occur due to various factors, including:
- Falls from poorly erected or incomplete scaffolds, particularly when components have been removed by unlicensed workers.
- Misuse of scaffolds, such as standing on rails or makeshift work platforms.
- Scaffold collapse or failure due to incorrect assembly, overloading, or deteriorated components.
- Objects falling off scaffolds and striking individuals below.
- Scaffolds being struck by vehicles or snagged by cranes.
- Scaffolders being injured during unsafe erection or dismantling.
To address these concerns, inspectors are visiting construction sites to engage with principal contractors and site supervisors, emphasising the importance of a scaffold safety management plan tailored to each stage of the build.
Inspectors have been empowered to issue on-the-spot fines for non-compliance, with individuals facing fines of up to $900 and businesses up to $4,500.
“SafeWork Inspectors take a zero-tolerance approach to workers’ lives being placed at risk around scaffolding and will issue on-the-spot fines to enforce compliance,” noted Sophie Cotsis, minister for Work Health and Safety.
Cotsis further stressed the importance of scaffold safety, stating, “It’s important employers understand their duties under work health and safety laws. Scaffold requires constant attention and coordination. It can kill workers when not built safely, with the main risks being falls from heights, falling components, scaffold collapse, and contact with powerlines.”
Tim Crakanthorp, State Member for Newcastle, highlighted the significance of the initiative: “Scaffolds are a focus for inspectors for good reason. Falls from heights are one of the biggest causes of fatalities and serious injuries on NSW building sites.”
He added, “Newcastle is proud to help lead the way in New South Wales when it comes to helping keep workers safe on our construction sites.”
For further information on managing scaffold risks, workers, employers, and license holders can visit SafeWork NSW’s website.
