Charges over injuries at Campbell Barracks (Media release)

13 June 2019

Three companies have been charged over two separate incidents that caused injuries to workers during the redevelopment of Perth’s Campbell Barracks.

The prosecutions follow investigations by federal work health and safety regulator Comcare. It will be alleged the companies failed in their duties under the Commonwealth Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

The first incident happened on 1 May 2017. Workers for sub-contractor Altona Plumbing and Civil were moving a section of concrete stormwater pipe using chains attached to an excavator when the load swung and struck a worker, fracturing one of his legs.

The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) has filed one charge each against Bromar Nominees Pty Ltd (trading as Altona Plumbing and Civil) and the principal contractor for the redevelopment, Lendlease Building Contractors Pty Ltd.

The charges relate to alleged failures in providing a safe system of work including measures to stabilise the load and establishing an exclusion zone for the job.

In the second incident on 7 June 2017, workers for sub-contractor Metro Lintels were operating a crane when it hit a section of steel truss on a building. The truss fell and landed on a worker’s foot, causing serious injuries. The injured worker was employed by another sub-contractor.

The CDPP has filed two charges against Kuredale Pty Ltd (trading as Metro Lintels) and one charge against Lendlease Building Contractors Pty Ltd, alleging failure to use an exclusion zone and inadequate training, instruction and supervision.

All charges are Category 2 offences under the Work Health and Safety Act, carrying a maximum penalty of $1.5 million each.

The charges relating to the May 2017 incident are listed for mention in Perth Magistrates Court on 28 June. Charges for the second incident are listed for mention in the same court on 26 July.

Media Contact:
media@comcare.gov.au
0478 305 675