The warning follows 19 notifiable construction industry incidents reported to SafeWork SA between 1 October and 14 November.

SafeWork SA also received 64 complaints about the construction industry, predominately from members of the public.

A total of 182 statutory notices were issued during the six-week period, consisting of 54 prohibition and 128 improvement notices.

The building industry traditionally closes for about three weeks from just before Christmas until mid-January.

Construction businesses have been eagerly attempting to reduce backlogs and finish projects before the break.

Falls from height and falling objects were the leading causes of the 19 notifications reported to SafeWork SA in October and early November.

Five of the seven falling from heights incidents were associated with apprentices and three of the falls resulted in hospital admissions.

Working at heights without adequate falls controls were the leading reason for complaints, followed by construction sites where hazards were not isolated, or secured from unauthorised access.

Safe Work Australia data shows that 45 of the 200 workplace fatalities in Australia in 2023 were in the construction industry. Falls, vehicle incidents and being hit by moving objects are the leading construction industry causes of workplace fatalities.

Quotes attributable to SafeWork SA Executive Director Glenn Farrell

From the number of complaints we are receiving, it is obvious that the public will not turn a blind eye when it comes to cutting corners and compromising safety on construction sites.

Like many industries, construction workers look forward to some well-earned time off over Christmas. We are urging construction businesses to remain vigilant when it comes to safety in the busy weeks ahead so we can all enjoy the break with our family and friends.