Roof collapse (9 May 2022)
A 30-year-old worker sustained injuries when the temporary support post for the roof he was tiling failed, causing the roof to collapse. At the time, tiles had been stacked on the unsupported eaves in preparation to be installed.
The collapsed roof and temporary support that gave way.
Safety information
Structural collapses pose risks to workers on top of the structure as well as those working underneath and around the structure. These risks include falls from heights, being hit by falling objects and being crushed under the collapsed building material.
You must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with structural collapses, including:
- consult with suitably qualified and competent persons regarding engineering and structural requirements during construction
- follow all engineering and construction requirements as per the approved construction plans, including meeting hold points and inspection requirements
- ensure structural supports are correctly sized and have the load bearing capacity required
- ensure temporary structural supports are correctly located and fixed in position
- ensure heavy materials are not placed on unsupported roof areas
- implement safe work areas to reduce the risk to workers working beneath structures from being injured from falling objects or crush injuries in the event of a structural collapse
- communicate any safety concerns with the designer or engineer and do not continue work until the issue is resolved
- ensure a SafeWork Method Statement (SWMS) is developed, and followed, for high-risk work
- ensure all workers have the required licences and qualifications
- ensure all workers complete a site induction and are provided with all relevant safety information
- ensure all workers are wearing the correct PPE
- prepare an emergency plan for the site.
Related guidance material
- Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces – Code of Practice (PDF, 2326.56 KB)
- Managing the Risk of Falls in Housing Construction – Code of Practice (PDF, 2296.79 KB)
- Construction Work – Code of Practice PDF, 1014.41 KB
- How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – Code of Practice (PDF, 556.72 KB)
- Safe Design of Structures – Code of Practice (PDF, 1039.8 KB)
- The Pocket Guide to Construction Safety – SafeWork NSW (PDF, 1759.1 KB)
- Work Safely at Heights in Construction – SafeWork NSW