Safety strike to show managers the cost of non-compliance
Worked stopped at a construction site in the ACT last Friday as workers took action over safety concerns.
Reports say over 100 workers protested at the Braddon site, with inspectors from WorkSafe ACT called in to talk to company management about the concerns raised by the CFMEU.
The issues included the lack of a first aid shed at the site, no formal committee to oversee health and safety, and questions around access to first aid and emergency services if needed.
The staff are keen to do their jobs, but cannot with the significant safety fears still around, according to CFMEU ACT Branch Secretary, Dean Hall.
Mr Hall said there had been a number of falls already at the site, and workers are worried the ongoing safety issues will lead to a more tragic mishap.
According to ACT Work Safety Commissioner Mark McCabe, the inspectors said safety consultation has been lacking on the site and there should be a review and a further consultation with employees in two weeks’ time.
Until then, McCabe says, there will be weekly safety walks with the CFMEU, the employer and WorkSafe authorities present.