Safety in Australian Construction

The construction sector is recognised for safety in the workplace, ensuring every staff member gets home in one piece. According to Safe Work Australia, the industry has a higher rate of work-related injuries compared to other sectors. To mitigate these risks, the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011 establishes a framework to protect the health, safety, and welfare of workers. Compliance with this legislation is not only a legal obligation but also a moral one, something most Australian building companies take pride in.

Industry experts emphasise the critical importance of safety in construction. Kate Cole, an Australian engineer and occupational hygienist, has been instrumental in advocating for the health and safety of construction workers, particularly in controlling exposure to respirable crystalline silica. Her efforts underscore the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining workplace safety standards.

Furthermore, the Australian Work Health and Safety Strategy 2023–2033 sets a national framework for improving work health and safety over the next decade. The strategy addresses ongoing and emerging challenges, including managing psychosocial risks and the rise of new technologies. Safe Work Australia emphasises that achieving the vision of safe and healthy work for all requires the contributions of all stakeholders in the work health and safety system which will become vital moving forward.

These insights from industry leaders highlight the collective responsibility and ongoing efforts required to enhance safety in the Australian construction industry.

Advantages of Automated Construction Safety Software

Implementing construction safety software like SignOnSite’s App offers numerous benefits:

1. Streamlined Site Inductions
Digital platforms enable efficient management of site inductions. For instance, SignOnSite allows workers to complete inductions via a mobile app, reducing reliance on physical paperwork and ensuring that all personnel on-site have met safety requirements. This method also saves a huge amount of time giving you more time to do other tasks.

2. Real-Time Attendance Tracking
Knowing who is on-site at any given time is crucial for safety and emergency responses. Automated systems provide real-time attendance logs, ensuring accurate records and enhancing site security. No longer do you need to be calling up and asking if staff are on-site, you will be able to see everything with real time site attendance tracking.

3. Efficient Document Management
Safety software like SignOnSite centralises all safety documents, such as Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) and risk assessments, making them easily accessible and ensuring they are up-to-date.

4. Incident Reporting and Hazard Management
Prompt reporting of incidents and hazards is vital. Digital platforms facilitate immediate reporting through mobile devices, allowing for swift action and documentation. This ensures a much more smooth and efficient way to report any incidents or hazards.

5. Compliance Assurance
Automated construction safety software assists in maintaining compliance with Australian safety standards by providing reminders for audits, training renewals, and equipment maintenance.

Compliance with Australian Regulations

Adhering to Australian safety regulations is crucial for construction companies. Key legislations and standards include:

Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011

This act provides a framework to protect the health, safety, and welfare of all workers at work. It outlines the responsibilities of employers and employees to ensure a safe working environment. Here are 3 key points from this legislation that construction Safety Software can assist with:

1. Primary Duty of Care

• The Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) has the primary responsibility for ensuring workplace health and safety.
• This includes providing safe work environments, equipment, systems, and facilities for workers and others affected by the work.
• The duty extends to contractors, subcontractors, apprentices, trainees, and volunteers.
• Reference: WHS Act 2011, Section 19

2. Duties of Workers and Other Persons

• Workers must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and ensure their actions do not put others at risk.
• They must follow safety policies and procedures and comply with reasonable instructions from employers.
• Visitors and other people at the workplace must also act responsibly to prevent harm.
• Reference: WHS Act 2011, Sections 28-29

3. Incident Notification and Reporting

• PCBUs must immediately notify the regulator if a serious workplace incident occurs.
• Notifiable incidents include:
  - Death of a person (worker or member of the public).
  - Serious injury or illness (e.g., amputations, serious burns, or     exposure to harmful substances).
  - Dangerous incidents (e.g., structural collapses, explosions, electrical shocks).
• Failure to report can result in significant penalties.
• Reference: WHS Act 2011, Sections 35-39

National Construction Code (NCC)

• Volume One: Governs multi-story residential, commercial, and public buildings (e.g., offices, shopping centers, hospitals).
• Volume Two: Covers houses and smaller residential buildings.
• Volume Three: Focuses on plumbing and drainage standards.

The NCC is regularly updated to reflect new technologies, sustainability goals, and emerging safety risks. For example, recent updates have introduced stricter energy efficiency measures and improved fire safety regulations in high-rise buildings.

By adhering to the NCC, construction companies ensure their projects align with national best practices, comply with state and territory legislation, and provide safe, durable, and sustainable environments for occupants and the broader community.