A 34-year old CFMEU member was seriously injured on January 8, when a drilling rig fell 18 metres from the spillway at Googong Dam in the ACT.

The drilling rig operator from Victoria worked for a subcontractor on the spillway remediation project, which is being undertaken by a Joint Venture - the Bulk Water Alliance - between Actew Corporation, Abigroup, GHD and John Holland.

The drilling rig involved was an Atlas CopCo ROC D7.

It is not known yet what caused the incident. But OHS Committees on construction sites using such rigs should review all Safe Work Method Statements and conduct maintenance checks to ensure the plant is 100% fit to operate.

The incident is being investigated by the ACT police, fire brigade and WorkCover, as well as Comcare and the CFMEU ACT Branch.

More information will be posted on this website as it becomes available.

CFMEU members seeking more information in the interim should speak to your Branch OHS officers or Dean Hall at the ACT Branch: 02. 6267 1599.