What are the key risks for tradies?

From putting up scaffolding to welding and bricklaying, there’s always a lot happening on a building site, no matter if it’s a tall structure or a residential dwelling and everything in between. Which is why it’s so important to have insurance.

The hazardous environment of most building sites is one of the biggest risks tradies such as electricians, plumbers and carpenters face. Hot works, incomplete electrics and scaffolding are just some of the hazards tradies navigate every day. The need to use often-dangerous tools can also increase the chance of physical injury. This means the risk of injury can be much higher than for people working in places like an office.

If you employ contractors, there can be an additional risk they will become injured and they could make a claim against you. Theft of tools from building sites or vehicles is another significant problem for trades workers.

“Almost 190 Australian tradespeople lodge workers compensation claims every day."

SafeWork Australia, 31 July 2022

Who should consider insurance?

Trades insurance is a good idea for sub-contractors and sole traders. If you are a subcontractor, you may be able to make a claim on the main contractor’s policy. But it can be dangerous to rely on these policies as you may not be covered and do not have any control over it.