The Minns Labor Government has commenced a state-wide rollout of body worn video (BWV) to deter violence or aggression against SafeWork NSW inspectors.
Inspectors are essential to helping NSW workplaces maintain safety but aren't always welcomed onto worksites. They can be exposed to dangerous situations while engaging workers and workplaces and can be in remote and isolated areas.
The "Enhancing our Safety, Enhances Yours" campaign will see inspectors given additional safeguards in the form of body worn video cameras. They can be activated if the Inspector considers they or another person are at significant risk of harm, or they feel at risk of experiencing aggression or violence.
Violence and aggression against SafeWork Inspectors have increased in recent years. There are currently 179 active employer entities flagged for caution, meaning there has been unacceptable behaviours towards Inspectors from these individuals, with several matters under active investigation.
Under section 190 of the Work Health Safety Act, it is an offence to assault, threaten or intimidate an SafeWork Inspector, with a maximum penalty of over $70,000 or two years imprisonment for an individual, and almost $400,000 for a body corporate.
The BWV will act as a deterrent to inappropriate behaviour and assist prosecuting any alleged offences against SafeWork inspectors in the course of their duty.
All SafeWork NSW inspectors are being trained in the use of BWV and the handling of evidence and will be fitted with the cameras over coming months.
