Following the recent and much needed upgrade of Greensborough train station as part of the Southern Program Alliance (SPA) I received a number of calls regarding safety concerns.
The day after Metro management had a conducted a walk-through and opened the station to the public, what I found when I attended site was far from what we expect of modern worksites in Australia.
The overpass had several tripping hazards which continued onto the platform. Numerous bolts were exposed from the asphalt on the platform, some as much as 10cm. There were issues with drainage on the platform and exposed ceiling insulation in areas on the concourse. The first aid kit did not meet the needs and requirements of the site and there was no visible signage to help staff locate it.
Further inspection led me to discover an unfinished, fenced off stairwell attended by a security guard who informed me he was there “to give access to the public if the lifts don’t work.” That staircase was half tiled, had exposed metal beams, had insufficient railing to prevent a fall, insufficient lighting, and an exit into a live construction site flooded with water and mud. There was no delineation fence to prevent someone being hit by a piece of plant.
When I asked if there was a defibrillator on site, I was informed that it was removed because it wasn’t being used.
A phone call was made to management and to WorkSafe attended the site several days later and rectified a number of safety issues.
I have continued to attend projects throughout Victoria. The much-delayed inland rail project is now in full swing with Glenrowan almost completed and the Barnawartha site starting up. This project will assist in enabling the double stacking of freight on the east coast, leading to less trucks on the roads and a more efficient freight network.
For all V/Line infrastructure members, EA bargaining is set to kick off shortly. Rest assured negotiations won’t take place without the RTBU first speaking to members regarding the log of claims.
While I’ve been out speaking with members and delegates across the state, online meetings will also take place shortly. Keep an eye out for the invitation to these meetings to have your say on the negotiation.
I would also like to thank both Shane Hommelhoff (V/Line), Jim Rix (ARTC) and Brian Kelly (V/Line) for their assistance as Delegates and congratulate them on achieving 40 years as members of the RTBU. You have all earned the respect on the job, with the union and members across the state. Wishing you an enjoyable retirement. Thank you.
If you have any issues of want to arrange a prestart or site visit, please call me on 0403 863 869
