Preston worksite shut down by VBA following investigation with WorkSafe
No protective measures while working on a two-storey townhouse, plumbing works being done by unlicensed workers and no builder on site to supervisor. The long list on why dodgy construction in Preston was shut down.
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The Victorian Building Authority has shut a construction site in Preston down following fears a number of safety breaches could have resulted in tragedy.
During an inspection of the site earlier this month, a VBA inspector discovered two workers on the roof of the double-storey townhouse development without any protective measures in place to prevent falls, while another two workers were observed not wearing face coverings.
The VBA has referred the matter to police, while the plumbing work being carried out on site was being done by unlicensed operators.
On top of those issues stairwell voids to the second storey had no fall protection, and makeshift planks were installed for plasterers, in addition to ladders not being fixed and not fit for purpose.
The inspector also noticed the scaffolding was missing vital safety elements, including safety rails and kick boards, while rubbish and materials on the site also posed a serious safety risk to workers.
Remarkably there was no builder on site to supervise works going on.
Executive director of operations at VBA Lynda McAlary-Smith said the outcome was down to work between the VBA and WorkSafe Victoria.
“The risks posed by someone carrying out plumbing work while unlicensed are serious,” she said.
“They could mean costly repairs later down the track and possibly result in someone being hurt.
“Cutting corners to save money in the short term isn’t worth it. A split-second decision could result in serious injury, or worse.”
Both the VBA’s investigation and WorkSafe inquiries are ongoing.
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