SafeWork NSW has issued a warning to construction sites following recent inspections that revealed ongoing safety concerns across the industry.
Inspectors have intensified their focus on silica safety at construction sites, with particular attention to engineered stone and dust control measures. Crystalline silica dust is generated when workers cut, grind or polish materials containing silica, and exposure can lead to serious lung diseases including silicosis.
The regulator is also targeting fall prevention controls, following continued incidents involving workers falling from heights at construction sites across the state. Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and serious injuries in the construction industry.
SafeWork NSW has reminded businesses that maintenance companies and contractors must ensure proper safety systems are in place, including secure work platforms, appropriate fall protection equipment and adequate risk assessments before work commences at height.
Recent prosecutions have resulted in significant penalties for companies that failed to implement adequate safety measures. One maintenance company was fined $33,000 following a fall from height incident, demonstrating the regulator’s commitment to holding businesses accountable for safety failures.
Employers have a duty to provide safe systems of work and protect workers from foreseeable hazards including falls from height and exposure to hazardous substances. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing control measures according to the hierarchy of controls, providing appropriate training and supervision, and maintaining equipment in safe working order.
SafeWork NSW inspectors have powers to issue improvement notices requiring businesses to address safety concerns within specified timeframes, or prohibition notices to immediately stop unsafe work. Serious breaches can result in prosecution and substantial fines.
The regulator encourages workers to report unsafe work practices and conditions, and reminds them of their right to cease work if they reasonably believe continuing would expose them to a serious risk to their health or safety.
Construction businesses are urged to review their safety management systems and ensure compliance with work health and safety legislation, codes of practice and industry standards. SafeWork NSW provides guidance materials and online resources to assist businesses in meeting their obligations.
Source: SafeWork NSW, January 2026
