SafeWork SA investigations found that the high risk work licence holder failed to undertake the work safely and competently.

Reminder of licence holder obligations

SafeWork SA reminds High Risk Work licence holders that they have a very important duty to ensure their actions do not put themselves or others at risk of injury or harm whilst undertaking high risk work activities.

SafeWork SA Executive Director, Martyn Campbell said this is the fourth crane high risk work licence suspended over the past two years.

“High risk work licences should provide some assurance and piece of mind to employers and others that the licence holder is competent to safely operate the plant while managing the hazards and risks.

It is my responsibility as the Regulator to ensure that licence holders are meeting their duties and I will not hesitate to suspend high risk work licences where there is a failure to take reasonable care”.

High Risk Work Licence

A person conducting a business or undertaking at a workplace must not direct or allow a worker to carry out high risk work for which a high risk work licence is required unless the person sees written evidence provided by the worker that the worker has the relevant high risk work licence for that work and must also keep a record of the written evidence

A licence to perform High Risk Work is recognised all around Australia as part of a national licensing system and is required for the following kinds of work:

• Crane and hoist operation
• Dogging and rigging work
• Forklift operation
• Pressure equipment operation
• Scaffolding work

Cancellation/suspension of licence

SafeWork SA can suspend or cancel a High Risk Work licence and disqualify the licence holder from applying for other licences if the licence holder has failed to take reasonable care to carry out the high risk work safely and competently.

Further information

High Risk Work licences

Expiation issued for operating without high risk work licence