25/9/03
New regulations for operating cranes in Western Australia will become enforceable from next Friday, October 3.
Consumer and Employment Protection Minister John Kobelke said today the new laws were aimed at improving safety in the use of cranes on building and construction sites.
"These new regulations are the valuable outcome of extensive consultation and co-operation between employers, unions, the State Government and many others with an interest in the industry," Mr Kobelke said.
"The Gallop Government is creating safer communities, and ensuring safer workplaces is a crucial part of our strategy."
The Minister said a series of serious incidents in May last year, which involved cranes on Perth building sites, raised major concerns about the safety of cranes in WA.
"It quickly became obvious there was a lack of safe work practices with regard to cranes and a serious examination of the shortcomings became necessary in order for some action to be taken," he said.
"A working group was formed, headed by WorkSafe WA Commission chairman Tony Cooke, which included union and employer representatives, crane industry employees and WorkSafe officers."
Mr Kobelke said the working group developed a comprehensive report which covered a wide range of issues, along with recommendations for action and the strategies that would be required to implement changes.
A public forum was held in September last year, to explain the recommendations to interested parties and further discuss the practicability of the proposed reforms.
"These new regulations are the result of the discussions with and contributions from the many parties interested in crane safety in WA and I offer my appreciation and thanks to everyone who participated in the process," Mr Kobelke said.
Amendments to the regulations have included:
- new minimum requirements for crews of competent and certificated persons to operate cranes, based on the load lifting capacity of the crane;
- providing for the reporting of all 'incidents' involving cranes under the Occupational Safety and Health Act;
- tightening of requirements for the keeping of training records for certificates of competency applicants; and
- providing for the fitting of visual and audible alarms to cranes.
Mr Kobelke also confirmed the amendments would introduce the requirement for cranes, hoists and building maintenance units (including elevating work platforms) to be inspected, maintained and operated safely.
"These safety improvements underline the importance the State Government places on improving occupational safety and health standards in all industry areas," he said.
"This entire process is an excellent example of how unions, employers and Government can work together to improve safety in WA workplaces."
Minister's Office - 9222 9211
