SafeWork inspectors in New South Wales will be equipped with body-worn video (BWV) cameras to protect them from rising cases of violence and aggression.
The NSW government announced on Sunday that inspectors will be able to use BWV cameras if they or another person is at a significant risk of harm, or if they feel at risk of experiencing aggression or violence.
“This is an important safety measure recognising the risks our Inspectors take each day as they carry out essential workplace safety compliance duties across NSW,” said SafeWork Head Trent Curtin in a statement.
The cameras — rolled out under the “Enhancing our Safety, Enhances Yours” campaign — serve as a deterrent to inappropriate behaviour and assist in prosecuting any alleged offences against SafeWork inspectors while on duty.
It comes amid a rising number of cases of violence and aggression against SafeWork inspectors. Government data show that there are 179 active employer entities who have been flagged for unacceptable behaviours towards inspectors.
“The trend in increasing aggression on our inspectors is unacceptable and we are taking action,” Curtin said. “SafeWork NSW will not tolerate violence and aggression towards our Inspectors.”
All NSW inspectors are currently being trained in the use of BWV cameras and handling of evidence, according to the state government. They will be fitted with the cameras in the coming months.
“The NSW Government has a zero-tolerance approach to violence and aggression in workplaces,” said Work Health and Safety Minister Sophie Cotsis in a statement. “It is a fundamental right of every worker to go to work and come home safely to their loved ones.”
Stewart Little, Public Service Association of NSW General Secretary, welcomed the government’s initiative to protect SafeWork inspectors.
“The Public Service Association has been campaigning for this for many years and it’s great to see Minister Cotsis take the safety of our members so seriously,” Little said.
The rollout of BWV cameras adds to the protection that the state provides to SafeWork inspectors.
Under the state’s Work Health and Safety Act, it is an offence to assault, threaten, or intimidate a SafeWork inspector. Individuals who breach this rule may receive a maximum penalty of over $70,000 or two years behind bars. Organisations who violate it may get penalised with over $400,000.
