WorkSafe has initiated prosecution action against the building company that employed a labour hire backpacker who died as a result of a fall in 2016.

WorkSafe’s investigation was conducted as a result of that death, and while no charges have been laid in relation to the incident, other breaches were identified during the course of the investigation and this prosecution is the result.

Hanssen Pty. Ltd. has been charged with failing to apply mesh to holes or openings in floors, breaching Regulation 3.54(1)(b)(i).

It is alleged that repeated offences were committed during the construction of the Concerto Apartments building in Adelaide Terrace, Perth.

WorkSafe will allege that Hanssen breached the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996 by failing to install mesh during construction of the holes or openings in the concrete floors.

In October 2016, a female German backpacker employed by Hanssen under a labour hire arrangement fell 13 floors to her death through a pressurisation shaft at the site.

Media Contact: Caroline De Vaney, 6251 2363 or 0408 927563 (media enquiries only)

caroline.devaney@dmirs.wa.gov.au

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