MEA gives feedback on construction code guidelines

The Newman government’s recently released construction code guidelines have been welcomed by Master Electricians Australia (MEA). While MEA said the guidelines will strengthen industrial relations, it has also provided feedback to assist the government in implementing the code.

MEA Workplace Relations Manager Jason O’Dwyer said he is optimistic that the new guidelines for the building and construction code of practice would provide the necessary details on enforcement once certain aspects are finetuned.

“While the guidelines do provide a level of clarity regarding the code, there are a few implementation concerns that we feel need to be addressed,” O’Dwyer said.

“Currently, the scope of application for the guidelines is to all publicly funded building and construction work exceeding $2 million. There is a need for the contract value to be raised to at least $6 million to capture the majority of this work without placing an undue burden on small businesses wanting the opportunity to tender on smaller projects.

“Various inconsistencies between the guidelines and the Commonwealth Building Code 2013 make it problematic for the guidelines to be interpreted so they do not contravene the building code.

“There is also a risk that compliance with the guidelines could also cause the relevant parties to breach provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009, adding another layer of jurisdictional confusion for Queensland businesses.

O’Dwyer called for further clarification of several guidelines to ensure contractors fully understand their obligations and penalties they could face for not taking the required actions.

“The guidelines will greatly aid in cutting the rising occurrences of unnecessary time delays and cost blowouts on a number of major infrastructure projects but its effectiveness will depend upon implementation and enforcement measures,” O’Dwyer said.

“Master Electricians is looking forward to working closely with the Newman government to finetune the details of the construction code and ensure that it is enforced to the benefit of all within the industry.”