Sydney Workplace Accident: Construction Worker Falls 5m to His Death

Incident Overview

On Wednesday, 11 September 2019, Todd Connell, a construction worker employed by ReidStitt Constructions, died from fatal head injuries after falling 5.75 metres from a scaffold during dismantling work at a Sydney property. Builder and operator Jason Stitt has since been found guilty of failing to comply with health and safety duties, a significant cause of Connell’s death.

SafeWork NSW was notified of the incident and conducted an investigation. Stitt’s conviction followed court proceedings; sentencing is pending.

• Fatalities:
  • On Wednesday, 11 September 2019, Todd Connell, a construction worker employed by ReidStitt Constructions, died from fatal head injuries after falling 5.75 metres from a scaffold during dismantling work at a Sydney property
  • Deceased Worker:
• Injuries:
  • None reported.

• On Wednesday, 11 September 2019, Todd Connell, a construction worker employed by ReidStitt Constructions, died from fatal head injuries after falling 5.75 metres from a scaffold during dismantling work at a Sydney property
• Deceased Worker:

SafeWork NSW was notified of the incident and conducted an investigation. Stitt’s conviction followed court proceedings; sentencing is pending.

SafeWork NSW investigated the incident. Court proceedings found that Jason Stitt failed to engage a licensed scaffolder, failed to provide adequate instructions to workers, and failed to supervise the work properly. The scaffold was erected to 8.65 metres, exceeding the 4-metre limit permitted for unlicensed scaffolders under regulations. Stitt’s actions were determined to be a significant cause of Connell’s death. Sentencing is pending.

SafeWork NSW continues to investigate workplace safety compliance in the construction sector. Any workers, contractors or industry participants with information about unsafe scaffold practices or similar incidents are encouraged to report to SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or via the online incident-report form at safework.nsw.gov.au.