SafeWork SA issues scaffolding collapse safety warning

SafeWork SA Issues Scaffolding Collapse Safety Warning

SafeWork SA has issued a scaffolding collapse safety warning following three separate incidents involving workers sustaining severe injuries from scaffold falls at residential construction sites.

One such incident took place in February 2024, involving a worker who fell a distance of 2 meters while constructing a scaffold on a construction site.

The incident, which was attributed to a missing plank on the scaffold's working deck, resulted in fracturing of both his wrists. Falls from height remain among the most hazardous risks on construction sites, and this case highlights how quickly a hazardous plant fault can lead to serious harm.

Enforcement Action and Scene Preservation

In two instances, enforcement notices were issued as a consequence of not preserving the incident scene. Preserving evidence at a construction site after a scaffold collapse allows investigators to determine whether faulty plant, poor maintenance, or inadequate training contributed to the falls.

Employer Obligations Under WHS Law

The SA workplace health and safety watchdog reminds employers of their obligation to identify potential hazards, evaluate and manage risks, and regularly review control measures across construction operations.

Employers must ensure scaffold plant is inspected regularly, that working decks remain complete, and that workers receive proper training before undertaking construction tasks at height. Health and safety representatives play a key role in reporting hazardous conditions before they escalate into serious falls.

This warning follows a similar safety warning issued after a young boy fell from scaffolding on a NSW construction site, underscoring a broader pattern of scaffold-related incidents across Australian construction sites.

Employers seeking to strengthen their safety documentation can review resources such as the Trench Collapse SWMS or consult SafetyDocs' support team for guidance on managing construction plant and workplace health risks.

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