Workplace safety in the construction sector continues to face intense scrutiny as regulators crack down on unsafe practices, especially those involving work at heights. A recent case in New South Wales has highlighted just how costly safety failures can be for builders and contractors. A Melbourne builder has been fined $90,000 following a serious workplace fall that left two workers injured, reinforcing the urgent need for stronger Work Health and Safety (WHS) systems across the industry. For construction businesses, developers, and subcontractors, this incident serves as a powerful reminder that inadequate planning, poor supervision, and missing safety controls can lead not only to severe injuries but also significant legal and financial consequences.
What Happened
SafeWork NSW prosecuted building renovator George Zanbaka after two workers fell at least 2.5 metres when a concrete garage roof collapsed during demolition works on 26 April 2023. Both workers sustained injuries, and the Industrial Court of NSW found that Zanbaka failed to comply with his primary duty of care under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
The court determined that inadequate planning, insufficient risk assessment, and a lack of proper controls for working at heights contributed to the incident.
Penalties Imposed
The Court issued a $90,000 fine and ordered the builder to complete:
- A Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety
- A SafeWork NSW construction safety webinar series
These additional requirements highlight the regulator’s focus on improving WHS competency, not just punishing breaches.
Why This Matters for Construction Businesses
Falls from heights remain one of the leading causes of traumatic injuries and fatalities in Australian workplaces. SafeWork NSW continues to emphasise that businesses must:
- Conduct thorough risk assessments
- Implement safe work method statements (SWMS)
- Use appropriate fall prevention systems
- Provide adequate worker training and supervision
This case serves as a reminder that regulators are actively enforcing compliance, and penalties for breaches are significant.
Lessons for Builders, Contractors & Property Developers
ABILITY GROUP encourages all construction and renovation businesses to review their WHS systems immediately. Key takeaways include:
- Risk Assessment Is Non-Negotiable High risk work, especially demolition and height related tasks, requires documented controls
- Training Must Be Verified Workers must be competent and trained for the specific tasks they perform.
- Safety Systems Must Be Active, Not Passive SWMS, fall prevention systems, and supervision must be implemented consistently, not just exist on paper.
- Regulators Expect Continuous Improvement Court increasingly impose training orders to ensure future compliance.
How ABILITY GROUP Supports WHS Compliance
For builders and developers seeking to strengthen safety and reduce risk exposure, ABILITY GROUP provides:
- WHS consulting and compliance audits
- SWMS development and implementation
- Safety training and toolbox talks
- Risk management frameworks tailored to construction environments
Our team helps ensure your business meets regulatory obligations and avoids costly penalties.
Need Help Strengthening Your WHS Compliance?
Contact ABILITY GROUP today to protect your workers, your projects, and your business.
Further Information
Source: Safe Work Australia
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