SafeWork NSW investigates partial building collapse in Burwood
10 Mar 2025•BlueSafe Team•Source: SafeWork NSW
SafeWork NSW is investigating a partial building collapse during demolition at a Burwood commercial property. No worker injuries have been reported, and notices prohibit further demolition until it is safe to resume.
The regulator was notified at about midday on 18 February of a collapse involving part of a multi-storey commercial building at 52–56 Railway Parade. Scaffolding was also affected during the demolition.
Emergency services were called because of strong winds and the danger of further collapse. SafeWork NSW inspectors worked through the night alongside Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police, Burwood Council and Public Works engineers to make the area safe.
Inspectors remain at the site as the investigation and work to make the area safe continue. They have issued notices requiring work to be undertaken safely and preventing demolition from restarting until it is safe.
SafeWork NSW described demolition as high-risk construction work and reminded construction and demolition businesses of the importance of carrying it out safely. Businesses that breach work health and safety laws may face fines or prosecution.
Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin said: “While this incident will need to be thoroughly investigated, SafeWork NSW is putting demolition businesses on notice that we will not accept them putting worker and public safety at risk.”
From 1 March 2025, demolition licence holders must ensure workers have completed prescribed training where it is required for licensed demolition work.
Curtin also pointed to online resources for businesses, contractors and site supervisors about construction and demolition safety and supporting safety conversations at work.
Workplace incidents can be reported anonymously by calling 13 10 50 or using the Speak Up Save Lives website or app.
How Blue Safe can help: Our free SWMS tool can help you prepare a safe work method statement for high-risk construction work, including demolition. Create a free SWMS