Sydney Construction Worker Killed in On-Site Machinery Collapse

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A man has died and another remains in critical condition following a serious construction site incident in Sydney’s northwest on Tuesday morning.

Emergency crews responded at approximately 9:00 a.m. to a Meriton project located on Pennant Hills Road in Carlingford. According to first responders, a concrete pump collapsed, severely injuring two workers at the site. One of the men was in his 30s and the other in his 40s.

Both workers were treated at the scene before being transported in critical condition to nearby hospitals. One was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital, while the other was sent to Westmead Hospital.

Later in the day, a spokesperson for Meriton confirmed that the man in his 40s had died from his injuries.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a tragic incident occurred at our Carlingford construction site at approximately 9 a.m. this morning,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”

The construction site was placed on immediate lockdown following the collapse. A full investigation into the cause of the incident has been launched by local authorities, with SafeWork NSW leading the occupational safety inquiry.

The New South Wales Police have confirmed that a crime scene has been established. “Investigations have commenced into the circumstances surrounding the incident,” police said. “The matter has been referred to SafeWork NSW.”

The accident marks the second time in recent weeks that the same Meriton site has faced a safety-related emergency. Approximately six weeks ago, high winds caused a large crane on the site to tilt dangerously, prompting the evacuation of more than 300 residents and business owners from the surrounding area. Portions of Pennant Hills Road were temporarily shut down as a precaution.

Meriton’s founder and managing director, billionaire developer Harry Triguboff, reportedly visited the Carlingford site following the fatal accident. The high-profile property magnate made no public comment but was seen arriving shortly after the announcement of the worker’s death.

The Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) described the incident as a “shocking workplace death” and raised concerns about safety standards at high-density development sites.

While the exact cause of the machinery failure remains unclear, regulators are expected to examine whether standard operating procedures were followed and if appropriate risk controls were in place at the time of the accident.

This latest case has drawn attention to ongoing workplace safety issues in Australia’s construction industry, where heavy machinery and tight deadlines often intersect. Advocates for construction workers have repeatedly called for stricter safety oversight and more accountability from major developers.

Meriton stated it is fully cooperating with all investigative bodies and has pledged to implement any recommended improvements resulting from the investigation.

As of Tuesday evening, the second injured worker remained in critical condition.