Seven construction inspectors from Perth and regional WA conducted 50 investigations in the area from Bunbury to Augusta from December 8 to 12.

Inspectors issued 26 improvement notices and 15 prohibition notices, along with verbal directions to inform the industry in the South West of their obligations under the Occupational Safety and Health Act and Regulations.

WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said today she was pleased with the positive feedback given by WorkSafe inspectors about the levels of compliance with workplace safety and health requirements.

“The inspectors who went to the South West reported that the safety standards of construction work in the region were generally high,” Ms Lyhne said.

But, despite the overall good results, some areas of concern were identified including in relation to electricity.

Inspectors said some portable electrical equipment was not being tested and tagged because local electrical contractors were not providing this service.

Another area of concern was that some workplaces lacked adequate falls from height prevention.

“Both electricity and falls from height are priority areas for WorkSafe, and a large amount of time and resources are dedicated to reducing the number of injuries and deaths that involve these issues,” Ms Lyhne said.

“We do acknowledge the specific difficulties encountered in regional areas, and we were pleased to note the positive attitude of the construction industry in the South West and the proactive approach to workplace safety and health taken by many involved in the industry there.”