Conviction following WorkSafe investigation into asbestos issue


Released 11/10/2017

A local painter has received convictions in the ACT Industrial Magistrates Court today following an asbestos safety issue which occurred in 2016.

Charges were laid against local painter, Mr Paul Papas, who pled guilty to the charges through the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011.

In late October 2016 a high pressure washer was used to clean an asbestos cement roof as part of painting works at a commercial property in Fyshwick (78 Barrier Street).

Through this work, the asbestos was disturbed and spread onto surrounding properties and the roadway causing serious disruption and safety concerns.

WorkSafe ACT closed the area and arranged for cleaning to occur, with cost recovery then sought from Mr Papas for this significant work.

Mr Papas was convicted and received penalties as follows through the Work, Health and Safety Regulation 2011 in court this morning:

  • s419 ( direct or allow a worker to carry out work involving asbestos) – fine of $900
  • s427 (fail to ensure that an asbestos register was readily accessible) – fine of $540
  • s446 (direct or allow a worker to use a high pressure water spray on asbestos) – fine of $540

This came in addition to the cleanup costs incurred by Mr Papas, bringing a total over the incident to $249,634.08.

Work Safety Commissioner Greg Jones welcomed the convictions and the important deterrent it would provide to industry.

“This is a timely reminder to industry of the financial, reputational and broader community impact such safety incidents as this can have,” Mr Jones said.

“I welcome the outcome today and the financial penalty and clean up of this incident, being close to a quarter of a million dollars, sends an important signal that such activity will not be tolerated in our community.”

- Statement ends -

Access Canberra | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email

Emily Springett

(02) 6205 9093

0413 169 029

emily.springett@act.gov.au


«ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases