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Canberra Today 13°/16° | Saturday, March 30, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

WorkSafe ACT investigating Gungahlin building site injury

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ACCESS Canberra – WorkSafe ACT – has commenced an investigation into an incident which occurred at a Gungahlin worksite this morning.

Greg Jones, Director, Regulatory Compliance, Construction, Environment and Workplace Protection, said the investigation will uncover details of the incident but from initial attendance at the site by WorkSafe ACT inspectors, it appears that a young male worker fell approximately three metres from scaffolding.

“At this stage, WorkSafe is aware that the Ambulance Service received a 000 call at approximately 10.30 this morning,” Greg said.

“Ambulance officers attended the worksite at the corner of Gozzard and Ernest Cavanagh Streets. The worker was stabilised at the site before being taken to The Canberra Hospital where he has since been discharged.”

“WorkSafe inspectors conducted an audit of the entire site after the incident. Six improvement notices were issued covering matters such as clear access and egress and configuration of scaffolding and handrail systems. A notice was also issued preventing work in the area of the incident while WorkSafe conducts its investigation.

“While I am pleased to report that the worker has been able to leave hospital, I was saddened, and disappointed, to learn that a Canberra worker had suffered injuries during the course of his employment.

“Tasks involving working at heights is one of the most dangerous activities on construction sites. As recently as November last year, following the fining of a local company under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, employers and workers have been reminded to be diligent with safety, particularly when working at heights.

“I reiterate the importance of being diligent in all workplaces, especially in high risk workplaces such as construction sites,” Mr Jones concluded.

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