An increase in commercial and residential development across Australia has led to a spike in formwork and, in NSW, calls from SafeWork NSW for feedback on a draft formwork code of practice.

Code of practice

According to a press release issued by SafeWork NSW Executive Director Tony Williams, “More than 6000 people [in NSW] work in the concrete construction services industry, where formwork tradesmen and other structural trade workers are twice as likely to have a serious injury…”.

The nature of formwork construction can place workers in high-risk situations, such as being exposed to the risk of falls from heights, being struck by falling objects and muscular stress.

The draft code, which if approved will replace one from 1998, sets out the prevention measures and risk assessment processes that workplaces should put in place.

Have your say

The code has been under development for quite some time and the consultation period is open until 17 September 2019.

For more information and to submit feedback visit open consultations on the SafeWork website or view the consultation the NSW Government’s Have Your Say.

Recent prosecutions

The spotlight on formwork came recently in a prosecution against Truslan Constructions where a worker fell from a formwork deck.

Other guidance material

Other relevant codes and guidelines that address falls from height include: