WORKSAFE has warned that obstructing inspectors, verbal or physical assaults will not be tolerated and that preventing them from doing their job will be followed by investigation or possible prosecution.
Four inspectors were allegedly obstructed in three separate incidents on Thursday and Friday.
Police were called to one matter at a Pascoe Vale South, in Victoria.
WorkSafe inspectors have the right to enter workplaces at any time to ensure safety standards are maintained, WorkSafe’s executive director John Merritt said.
“We will not tolerate any effort to prevent our inspectors from doing their job,” he said.
“For obstruction, the courts can fine individuals up to $6,450 for obstructing inspectors while companies can be fined $33,000.
“For assault, intimidation or threatening an inspector, a two year prison term is possible along with fines of nearly $129,000 for companies or nearly $26,000 for individuals.
“We know most Victorians support the role of WorkSafe and our objective to ensure all Victorians get home safely at the end of the day. That right includes members of our team.
“They understand that inspectors have a job to do; they are enforcing the law and we view seriously any attempt to interfere with it in any way.”
Key contact:
Worksafe
info@workcover.vic.gov.au
www.worksafe.vic.gov.au
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