Who is responsible for workplace safety on my home-building site?

Safety duties depend on the work, who carries on the undertaking and who manages or controls the site. They are not settled solely by the building contract. Principal-contractor duties can apply to qualifying projects, and several parties can have overlapping duties. Owner-builders should confirm their position with the local regulator before work starts. Victoria uses its own OHS legislation; other jurisdictions have WHS legislation with local differences. Agree safe homeowner and visitor access with the person controlling the site.

Official sources:

• SWA Construction WHS duties model guidance
• SWA Regulator and workers compensation directory
• WorkSafe Victoria Principal contractor definition

General information only. Requirements vary by state or territory and change over time, so check the current rules for your location.