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Building safety blitz targets Bendigo
By Michelle Robertson , Senior Media and Communications Advisor
Builders and tradespeople in the Bendigo area recently came under the scrutiny of a new multi-regulator approach to ensure they are complying with the law .
In October , ESV joined forces with the Victorian Building Authority , WorkSafe Victoria , Consumer Affairs Victoria and the Environment Protection Authority to launch the new Build Aware program .
Build Aware is aimed at increasing awareness among industry and consumers of the importance of being compliant with building , construction , environment , plumbing and OH & S laws and regulations .
Bendigo blitz
From 17 – 21 October inspectors from different agencies visited construction and demolition work sites across the Bendigo region as well as local construction company head offices .
Bendigo was selected as the first Build Aware location because it has a strong construction base and is a leading regional centre . The program will be conducted in other regional centres next year with Geelong a likely next location .
Inspectors also conducted desktop reviews of permits and provided on-the-spot advice regarding compliance issues or questions .
Make sure you comply
ESV inspectors who visited sites were looking to ensure that licensed electricians and gasfitters were being used for all gas and electrical work .
They were also looking for adherence to the No Go Zone requirements , particularly ensuring buildings and scaffolding aren ’ t too close to powerlines .
Gas inspectors were checking compliance with the requirements for Complex gas installations , which includes commercial , high-rise or industrial sites . No Complex gas installation should be used until ESV has issued final acceptance .
VBA Director of Enquiries and Dispute Resolution , Murray Smith , said the results were positive .
“ Overall , the majority of construction sites inspected had no areas of high or significant non-compliance ,” he said .
“ Areas of concern were either alterations or extensions to current buildings and the construction of swimming pools . Home owners are reminded that even during construction it is important that swimming pools are compliant with relevant laws .
The blitz : ESV inspectors Michael Bull and Chris Linton inspecting a Bendigo building site ( top ) and ( above ) testing a switchboard at another residence .
“ In particular , temporary fencing that protects people from inadvertently falling into a pool and could cause injury if empty or drowning if there is water in it . The risk of backyard child drownings is ever present , so to prevent this type of tragedy it is vital pools are correctly fenced and compliant .”