More Action To Improve Workplace Safety
Source: Tasmania. Minister for Workplace Relations. Media Release
"The Minister for Workplace Relations, Lisa Singh, has called for public comment on a plan to allow authorised union representatives to enter workplaces to support ongoing improvement in occupational health and safety outcomes. Ms Singh said in 2008 there were over 10,000 workplace injuries reported in Tasmania, with over 4000 of these resulting in lost time at work. “While there has been a downward trend in recent years there are still too many Tasmanians and their families experiencing the problems that accompany workplace injury,” she said. “It is imperative that we use all the resources available to continue our impressive record to reduce these injuries.” Ms Singh says providing a formal health and safety role for unions will provide workers with an additional avenue to raise concerns. “Every Tasmanian worker has the right to expect that they will get through the day safely and this approach will support that. Workers are often able to identify safety risks because of their daily contact with their workplace,” Ms Singh said."