Canberra lockdown: WorkSafe ACT crack down on illegal construction

WorkSafe ACT and police will crack down on rule-breakers with random inspections at sites over the weekend, and through the week.

Work Health and Safety commissioner Jacqueline Agius said while the ACT was under lockdown construction could only be done if it was an emergency or to maintain safety and security.

All sites were given a grace period this week to ensure sites were safe, which may require a worker to attend.

However, inspectors have come across several sites where non-essential work is taking place.

"We are out in the ACT and on the ground as we are needed," Ms Agius said.

"If non-essential work is found by an inspector, there will be consequences.

"All work on commercial and residential construction sites must cease to support breaking the chain of infection in the territory."

A driver attempting to reach the NSW snowfields from Kiama was turned away at the ACT border by police on Saturday, but compliance was generally good, the ACT's chief police officer said.

Deputy Commissioner Neil Gaughan said ACT and NSW police stopped 550 vehicles on Saturday, including 350 at a checkpoint on Lanyon Drive.

Four people were turned away on Saturday, down from the 12 vehicles turned back on Friday.

"We also had a person from Queanbeyan who decided it was a good idea to just go for a bit of a drive. Clearly, that's not on," Deputy Commissioner Gaughan said.

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The chief police officer said co-operation with NSW police was excellent.

Police also completed compliance checks across 140 businesses, hotels and other residences in Canberra on Saturday.

"I also ask people to be really careful when they go out and get takeaway coffee. Can you please get your coffee and go somewhere else. Don't loiter around the location. And please make sure in public you're always wearing your mask, or at least have one with you," Deputy Commissioner Gaughan said.

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