WorkSafe investigating after worker falls from site at CDU city campus

Builders are being urged not to modify construction sites if they’re not authorised to do after a recent incident.

NT WorkSafe is urging builders not to modify scaffolding if they’re not authorised to do so, after a worker fell through a gap they created.

In an incident release following preliminary findings, WorkSafe said a worker on the Charles Darwin University CBD campus site removed timber plans from scaffolding to allow for placement of formwork by a crane.

After removing the planks, the worker fell through the gap they created.

The worker was able to hold onto the remaining planks and avoided a fall of over 3m.

Inquiries into the incident are continuing.

WorkSafe reiterated the importance of safety, citing similar recent incidents including one where a hop-up collapsed when a worker stood on it, after it was removed and incorrectly replaced by subcontractors.

“Falls are a major cause of death and serious injury in Australian workplaces and inadequate scaffolding can increase the risk of a fall,” the release said.

“As scaffolding is meant to be a safe platform for working at height or used as fall prevention it is important that the structure is suitable for the task required.”

WorkSafe investigating construction worker fall

A WORKER on the Charles Darwin University CBD campus has fallen from scaffolding.

NT WorkSafe is investigating the incident which happened on Saturday July 23.

The incident was reported by the worker’s employer who is a subcontractor at the site.

“Preliminary information indicates the worker fell through a gap in the scaffolding but managed to halt their fall before falling completely from the scaffolding,” an NT WorkSafe spokesman said.

“NT WorkSafe has commenced an inquiry into the incident to determine the appropriate regulatory response.”

The extent of the worker’s injuries are not yet known and it is believed St John NT were not called out to the incident.

WorkSafe have confirmed the worker was not taken to hospital.

CDU Vice Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman said the school was aware of the incident.

“We have been informed that a construction incident occurred at the Education and Community Precinct, managed by Halikos,” he said.

“The worker’s injuries were minor, and Halikos has assured CDU of their ongoing commitment to onsite safety.”

Building company Halikos, who were awarded the tender, have been contacted for comment.