A Guide on Safety Checks and Building Works Inspections During Construction

In Australia, safety checks and inspections of building works during construction are governed by the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011. The following are the procedures and regulations for conducting safety checks and inspecting building works during construction in Australia:

1. Building Code of Australia (BCA): The BCA sets out the minimum necessary requirements for safety, health, amenity, and sustainability in the design and construction of buildings. It covers various aspects of building construction, including structural design, fire safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility.
2. Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011: The WHS Act establishes a framework for ensuring the health and safety of workers and other people at construction sites. It requires employers and other duty holders to take reasonable steps to eliminate or minimize risks to health and safety.
3. Construction Induction Card (CIC): All workers on construction sites in Australia must hold a valid Construction Induction Card (CIC), also known as a "white card." The CIC is issued after completing a general construction induction training course that covers safety awareness and risk management.
4. Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS): For high-risk construction work, employers must prepare a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) that outlines the hazards and risks associated with the work and the control measures to be implemented. The SWMS must be provided to all workers involved in the work and must be followed during the work.
5. Site Safety Plans: A site safety plan must be prepared for all construction sites in Australia. The plan must include details of the site layout, access and egress points, traffic management, emergency procedures, and other safety-related information.
6. Inspections and Audits: Regular inspections and audits must be conducted to ensure that building works are being carried out safely and in compliance with the relevant regulations. Inspections may be conducted by the building owner, the builder, or by a third-party inspector appointed by the building owner.
7. Permits and Approvals: Certain building works may require permits or approvals from local councils or other regulatory authorities. These permits and approvals may include development approvals, building permits, and occupation certificates.
8. Reporting Incidents: All incidents, injuries, and near misses must be reported to the relevant authorities, including the workplace health and safety regulator and the builder.
9. Compliance with Regulations: All building works must comply with the relevant regulations, including the BCA, the WHS Act, and any other relevant legislation.
10. Training and Education: All workers involved in building works must receive appropriate training and education in safety and risk management. This may include training in the use of personal protective equipment, working at heights, and other safety-related topics.

In summary, conducting safety checks and inspecting building works during construction in Australia involves complying with the Building Code of Australia, the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, and other relevant regulations. This includes obtaining necessary permits and approvals, preparing site safety plans, conducting regular inspections and audits, and providing appropriate training and education to workers.

Follow this guide on How to conduct safety checks and inspect building works during construction