“When they throw the construction waste down, it feels like an earthquake hit the island,” the woman explained.

She, as well as other residents living in the neighbouring block, have said to have reported this site dozens of times both to the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), as well as to the OHSA.

Most reports have gone to the BCA including one of works starting well-before 7am, footage sent to Lovin Malta shows a crane operating at 6.07am on 6th March. In this instance, the neighbour was allegedly told that no inspectors were available and was directed to call the police. The police told her the same thing and eventually police officials arrived on site after 7am and a report was taken.

This site is located at the back of the ST Hotel, owned by mega-developer Michael Stivala who is demolishing it to redevelop a four-star establishment under the Accord Mövenpick brand (see PA/4896/23 renewed by PA/4896/23).

Despite 138 reports, workers are still showing up on site without safety gear as recently as today. Set up less than a year ago, the 138 helpline is used to report any type of abuse or concerns regarding building and construction sites. Reports then get forwarded to the relevant authority – the BCA or the OHSA.

The OHSA informed Lovin Malta that it could not find any reports in its system, indicating that it’s possible that the agents taking the calls would have decided the issue falls under the BCA. This issue is being looked into internally.

Meanwhile, the neighbour was able to open two cases with the BCA however she has not been updated on them since.

Lovin Malta reached out to both the BCA and the hotel for more information, with both the BCA and OHSA later providing a statement on the matter. 

“Inspectors have been deployed following reports received through the helpline 138, as well as during routine inspections. During the initial visit by OHSA, no visible works were in progress. Consequently, a follow-up inspection was conducted, during which OHSA took the necessary action,” the statement reads.

“The BCA conducted investigations within its remit. In the first quarter of 2025, the authority carried out 14 inspections at this site and has taken the necessary measures to improve operations while minimising disruptions to neighbouring residents.”

“Residents and the general public are encouraged to continue reporting through our official helpline 138. This ensures that both authorities can take immediate action-not only to prevent accidents but also to enhance safety and standards within the construction sector.”

“In recent weeks, this helpline has actively invested in human resources and improved subject-related expertise, while also enhancing the efficiency of our response system.”

If you ever witness similarly dangerous construction conditions be sure to contact the OHSA on 138. Footage can also be sent to Lovin Malta’s social media or email ([email protected]/[email protected]) to raise awareness about the state of construction on the island.

Have you ever witnessed any similar dangerous work conditions?