Over the last few months in rail projects there have been several concerning safety breaches. In as many months, we have sadly seen the loss of two lives on these projects due unsafe practices and conditions.
This is a reminder to all Members to always prioritise the safety of yourself and fellow workers on site. If you’re instructed to work in a way that makes you feel unsafe, contact your HSR, Delegate, Shop Steward or Organiser.
As a response to safety concerns, companies have been conducting “hazard assessments” to determine what they consider to be compliant and safe.
However, these assessments are not conducted with the relevant workgroups HSR/Shop Stewards as is the standard practice.
On several occasions when out on site I have questioned the validity of these assessments as they have missed several risks that need to be considered and acted upon to make the site safe.
I have even experienced so called “Safety Managers” writing in risks after the risk assessment was completed and work on site had already begun.
It was only when work was stopped by union representatives, and the risk assessment were questioned, that they finally recognised the danger and attempted to cover it up.
To me, this shows a disregard for the safety of workers.
If you have concerns that your site is putting your safety at risk, please don’t wait to contact your shop steward or organiser.
There is nothing more important than every member arriving home safe at the end of the day.
If you have any issues you want to discuss, or if you want to arrange a prestart or site visit, please call me on 0403 863 869.
Joe Dennis
Organiser
