WorkSafe ACT inspectors fronted two Geocon construction sites with police from Canberra's anti-bikie taskforce in tow on Friday morning, slapping a prohibition order on a subcontractor working at both Belconnen developments.
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WorkSafe commissioner Greg Jones said police had accompanied the safety officers in order to collect their own intelligence from the sites, and support WorkSafe in its compliance audit.
"We had some information that would assist ACT Policing," he said.
A spokesman for ACT Policing confirmed officers from its anti-bikie squad Taskforce Nemesis attended the site but said no arrests had been made.
"[They] attended the sites in Belconnen to ensure any other matters identified during the compliance activity could be actioned immediately," he said.
The subcontractor which was the focus of the visit is understood to be under police scrutiny, but could not be reached on Friday evening for comment.
Mr Jones said Geocon's sites could still operate while the contractor sorted out a number of safety issues including around staff induction and noise testing.
"WorkSafe are pretty confident that the general activity on that site is good, it's well controlled, we're regular visitors," he said.
A WorkSafe spokeswoman said some scaffolding issues were also identified and immediately fixed up.
While Mr Jones said WorkSafe did not routinely take along police to its inspections, it was not uncommon. The watchdog had teamed up with police recently during raids on number of local brothels, he said.
Cassandra Morgan
It has never been more important for Canberrans to be able to access reliable and accurate information about health. As The Canberra Times’ health reporter, I am committed to ensuring our readers have access to this. I, like many in the territory, have family members who work in the sector. Although providing comprehensive coverage on the coronavirus pandemic is obviously my number one priority, I aim to frequently shed light on the fantastic work our frontline professionals do, as well as the challenges they face. Email me tips and story ideas at: c.morgan@canberratimes.com.au.
It has never been more important for Canberrans to be able to access reliable and accurate information about health. As The Canberra Times’ health reporter, I am committed to ensuring our readers have access to this. I, like many in the territory, have family members who work in the sector. Although providing comprehensive coverage on the coronavirus pandemic is obviously my number one priority, I aim to frequently shed light on the fantastic work our frontline professionals do, as well as the challenges they face. Email me tips and story ideas at: c.morgan@canberratimes.com.au.
Sherryn Groch
Sherryn is a journalist at The Canberra Times, with a special interest in education and social affairs.
Sherryn is a journalist at The Canberra Times, with a special interest in education and social affairs.
