SafeWork NSW has initiated an investigation into a partial building collapse that occurred on 22 January 2025 at a demolition site in Burwood, Sydney.
The incident, which took place around midday at 52-56 Railway Parade, involved the collapse of a section of a multi-storey commercial property and affected scaffolding.
Strong winds contributed to the instability of the structure, prompting concerns about further collapse and necessitating the involvement of emergency services.
Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Josh Turner reported that approximately 50 people were evacuated from surrounding buildings and the immediate area as a precaution.
SafeWork NSW Inspectors have been collaborating closely with Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police, Burwood Council, and engineers from Public Works throughout the night to secure the area.
While no injuries have been reported, the inspectors remain on-site as they continue their investigation and oversee ongoing safety measures.
In response to the incident, SafeWork NSW Inspectors have issued notices to ensure work is carried out safely and to prohibit further demolition works until it is deemed safe to resume.
Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW, emphasised the agency’s commitment to worker and public safety, stating: “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.”
Curtin further stressed that SafeWork NSW Inspectors have the authority to issue penalty notices or initiate prosecutions when safety laws are violated.
The incident serves as a reminder of the high-risk nature of demolition work in the construction industry.
SafeWork NSW has announced that from March 1, 2025, demolition licence holders will be required to ensure that demolition workers have completed prescribed training before undertaking licensed demolition work.
SafeWork NSW encourages anyone to report workplace incidents anonymously by calling 13 10 50 or using the Speak Up Save Lives website and app.
Additional resources regarding demolition work safety management for workers, employers, and licence holders are available on the SafeWork NSW website.
As the investigation continues, this incident underscores the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols in high-risk construction activities, particularly in demolition work.
