Compliance blitz targets construction industry

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) has begun a state-wide compliance blitz to reduce serious workplace incidents in Queensland’s high risk construction industry.

WHSQ inspectors will be targeting construction sites across Queensland between July and September 2024.

Workplace data indicates significant injuries occur in the construction industry when working at height, and that there are high levels of non-compliance relating to scaffold and working near overhead powerlines. These areas will be the focus of the construction compliance campaign.

The compliance blitz includes an awareness phase where WHSQ will provide Queensland construction businesses with information and tools to educate and assist in compliance with WHS legislation.

Following that phase WHS Inspectors will assess if workplaces are compliant with the work health and safety laws and take necessary enforcement action when non-compliance is detected.

Businesses are encouraged to visit worksafe.qld.gov.au or contact the WHSQ team about how to comply with legislation.

Businesses and company directors have a primary duty of care to make their environments safe for all workers and members of the public, and WHSQ has a responsibility to regulate businesses to ensure they comply with these duties.

Employers must ensure they are aware of their duties and have systems in place that ensure health and safety risks are effectively managed at their workplace.