SafeWork NSW targets construction site security over summer shutdown
23 Dec 2025•BlueSafe Team•Source: SafeWork NSW
SafeWork NSW is reminding construction businesses and principal contractors to make their sites safe and secure before the end-of-year summer break. Inspectors are visiting sites across the state during December and January, with further checks during the shutdown.
The site visits aim to promote preparedness for securing construction sites over the holiday period. SafeWork NSW is also attending key industry events ahead of the shutdown to raise awareness of the risks of unsecured sites, including serious injury or death, theft and vandalism.
During the shutdown, inspectors will check whether building and construction businesses have met their legal obligations before taking their break. Where an unsecured site is identified, the principal contractor will be contacted to arrange for it to be secured.
Businesses that fail to secure their sites may receive an improvement or prohibition notice. On-the-spot fines can also apply, with penalties of $2,700 for businesses and $500 for individuals.
SafeWork NSW is encouraging site managers to use its site security checklist when preparing for shutdown. The checklist and safety information for construction firms are available on the regulator’s website.
SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer said: “The Christmas and New Year break is the longest shut down in the construction industry and unsecured sites can pose a great risk to the community.”
Schorer said worksites needed proper fencing and locked gates once work finished for the year to minimise the chance of injuries during the holidays. She identified uncovered pits, exposed scaffolding and plant and equipment that had not been put away as hazards capable of causing serious injury or death.
How Blue Safe can help: Our WHS platform can help you organise site inspections and contractor management records as you prepare for shutdown and manage ongoing site safety. See Blue Safe WHS software