Major trenchless and tunnelling works have ground to a halt across Melbourne since the Victorian Government’s announcement of the mandatory closures last Tuesday.
Victoria’s Big Build has suspended works across some of the state’s biggest projects in metropolitan Melbourne, City of Ballarat, City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire and Mitchell Shire.
These include works on the West Gate Tunnel Project as well as the Metro Tunnel Project, set to be completed in 2025.
Big Build said it would be working closely with its building parters to comply with construction-related public health orders for when works recommence.
This includes implementing strict measures to minimise workforce close contacts, such as staggered shifts and industry consultation to implement COVIDSafe meal and rest-break arrangements for our workforce.
Limited exemptions have been available to enable some workers to attend sites to respond to emergency or perform urgent and essential work.
Across town, Central Highlands Water (CHW) been issued an exemption for the Ballarat Sewer Build, which was declared a critical water infrastructure project.
CHW said workers on the Ballarat Sewer Build are subject to the same requirements as construction workers across the entire industry regarding vaccination.
All sites will be required to demonstrate compliance with the Chief Health Officer Directions prior to reopening on 5 October, including evidence of first vaccine dose.
For more information visit the Victorian Health Building Authority website.