A roofing construction and services company in NSW was recently fined $400,000 after a 20-year-old worker died as a result of injuries sustained following a six-metre fall through a skylight.

Landmark Roofing Pty Ltd was fined for a breach of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and has the right to appeal the sentence.

Minister for Better Regulation, Kevin Anderson, said the incident underscores the need to protect young workers.

“Looking after the most vulnerable in the workplace should be at the heart of any company’s safety plans,” Minister Anderson said.

“It’s so important that young workers get specific training and appropriate supervision to do their job safely.”

After a number of serious injuries on sites throughout the state, Minister Anderson said inspectors would be on the ground ensuring those undertaking high-risk work have the right safeguards in place.

Building and construction sites in Newcastle can expect an unannounced visit from SafeWork NSW inspectors as the workplace safety regulator undertakes high-visibility safety checks across the region.

Inspectors are focusing on work from heights, electrical safety, falling objects, amenities, work plans and the prevention of respiratory diseases such as silicosis, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

They will also be checking worksites have appropriate COVID-19 safe practices in place for all workers.

On-the-spot fines of $3,600 for corporations and $720 for individuals can be issued to businesses who place workers lives at risk through inadequate fall from heights protection, or for those who undertake high risk work without appropriate licences.

This article is a news item provided by AIHS. Its content does not necessarily reflect the views of the Australian Institute of Health & Safety.