SafeWork NSW was notified of a section of a multi-storey commercial property collapsing at 52-56 Railway Parade during a demolition process, with scaffolding also affected, at about midday yesterday.
Strong winds and the risk of further collapse caused for emergency services to be called to the scene.
SafeWork NSW Inspectors have been working closely with Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police, Burwood Council and engineers from Public Works throughout the night to make the area safe.
There have been no reported injuries to any workers.
SafeWork NSW Inspectors remain on-site and have started an investigation while make safe works continue.
SafeWork NSW Inspectors have also issued notices to ensure work is carried out safely and to prohibit further demolition works until it is safe to resume.
Demolition is high-risk construction work. This incident is a reminder to construction and demolition companies about the importance of undertaking demolition works safely. Businesses that do not comply with work health and safety laws may face fines or prosecution.
Additionally, from 1 March 2025 demolition licence holders must ensure demolition workers have completed prescribed training if required to undertake licensed demolition work.
Anyone can anonymously report an incident at a workplace by calling 13 10 50 or by visiting the Speak Up Save Lives website and app.
Further information for workers, employers and licence holders about managing the risks of demolition work.
Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin:
“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.”
“Every worker in the State, regardless of what they do and where they live, should expect to go home to their family at the end of every working day and SafeWork NSW Inspectors have the power to and will issue penalty notices or, when necessary, initiate prosecutions when our laws are broken.
“We also have resources available online for businesses, contractors and site supervisors to help them understand the importance of safety during construction and demolition works and how to promote those safety conversations on the work site.”
