WorkSafe is reminding the construction industry of the dangers associated with trenches after one recently collapsed on a worker at a domestic housing site at Pakenham.
The trench collapsed on a plumber while he was connecting a sewer at a housing construction site. WorkSafe’s Construction Manager Allan Beacom said it was fortunate the worker had a colleague nearby who was able to raise the alarm.
“Broken limbs, asphyxia and crush injuries are just some of the serious injuries that can occur when a trench collapses,” he said.
“This man is incredibly lucky he wasn’t seriously injured; the consequences could have been a lot worse.”
The incident happened a week before a 12-month statewide WorkSafe campaign targeting safety on housing construction sites.
Mr Beacom said it was a reminder to the construction industry to review safety practices.
“There’s a range of control measures that can be implemented before beginning work on trenches. They are well-known across the industry and should be implemented to eliminate any risk of a collapse.”
“As we’re in the middle of winter, it’s equally important that environmental factors such as wet weather conditions and increased ground moisture are taken into account as they could affect soil stability.”
For other control measures, visit www.worksafe.vic.gov.au
