‘Starting to get ridiculous’: Emails reveal safety concerns before tradie’s death

Uncovered emails warned that lives were at risk before a horrific scaffolding collapse on a Sydney building site that left a teenager dead.

Builders at the site of a horrific scaffolding collapse in Sydney were warned that safety concerns were “starting to get ridiculous” in the months leading up to a teenager’s death, leaked emails have revealed.

Christopher Cassaniti, 18, was crushed to death last Monday when a nine-storey scaffolding tower collapsed on top of him at a Macquarie Park building site.

The building company Ganellen, scaffolding company Synergy Scaffolding and the worksite are all now under investigation.

Christopher Cassaniti was killed when scaffolding at a Macquarie Park construction site collapsed on top of him on Monday, April 1. Picture: Facebook

Now, uncovered emails, obtained and published by 7 News, describe a history of alleged dangerous practises at the site.

An email from Synergy to Ganellen, sent on June 18, 2018, states:

“One raker tie on Building M level (used to brace the structure) has been removed. This seems to be a recurring theme and this is starting to get ridiculous. I’ve never had these issues on any site.”

A further email, sent on September 28, 2018 by the scaffolding company, warned Ganellen’s safety officer about issues at the site.

“This is putting lives at risk and exposing my men to possible issues …”

Another tradie was also injured in the horrific collapse last week. Picture: Channel 9

In September, another email warning from Synergy was addressed to a Ganellen safety officer.

“Please see attached photos of scaffold that has been removed. They have removed boards from hop-ups to install props,” the email read.

“Once again, they should not be touching the scaffold, especially the ties. This has been an ongoing issue.”

In a statement, Ganellen said its focus this week remains on “providing support to Christopher’s family, his injured colleague and the people who have been devastated by this tragedy”.

“We understand people have questions about what happened and this is why we are continuing to assist and co-operate with all authorities in their investigations. These investigations are ongoing,” the spokeswoman said.

“Out of respect for the families involved and the investigations underway, it would be inappropriate to respond to questions, speculation or do anything that may prejudice or pre-empt the investigations that are underway.”

News.com.au has reached out to Synergy Scaffolding for comment.