A worker’s death on a tilt-up construction site in September has prompted Worksafe Western Australia to unleash a specialised inspection team to blitz safety standards on pre-cast tilt-up construction sites.
The results of an independent engineer’s investigation conducted at the Myaree site have revealed new safety information that will be incorporated into a checklist for the inspectors.
However, the engineer’s report also found that problems in design and manufacture of the panels and erection practices could not be ruled out as possible causes for the collapse.
WA’s Employment Protection Minister John Kobelke has endorsed the move, stating that a blitz was necessary on Perth building sites immediately to improve workplace safety.
“Concerns within the building industry, coupled with an independent engineer’s report on the Myaree site, suggest a lack of expertise, experience and relevant training,” Kobelke said.
Inspections will concentrate on: design documentation (plans, drawings etc.); planning and work procedures; casting of panels; panel and steel erection; the training and competency of erection crews; and compliance with regulatory requirements.
“Two inspectors have been specifically tasked with the beginning of the blitz while another eight are to be given specialised training for the inspection campaign, “ Kobelke said.
To manage the investigation into this construction method, the Worksafe WA Commission has set up a Pre-Cast and Tilt-Up Panel Construction review group incorporating representatives from the Worksafe WA Commission, the Construction Industry Safety Advisory Committee and the Crane Safety Standards working party. The group has already begun working and will concentrate on regulations governing tilt-up construction, training and licensing issues.