Released 28/04/2018
Today is International Workers Memorial Day and World Day for Safety and Health.
It is a day for us to reflect on those workers who have lost their lives or been seriously injured at work and the impact that has on family, friends and colleagues. Today is also an opportunity to recommit to ensuring that every worker gets home safely every day.
This year’s theme is Generation Safe and Healthy, focusing on young workers. We know that young workers are at increased risk of injury or harassment in the workplace. This is because many young people are new to the workforce and are unsure of work practices and lack the confidence to report concerns.
It is up to everyone, governments, regulators, unions, employers and workers to foster a workplace culture where safety is paramount and workers feel empowered to speak out and report concerns at work.
No deadline or target is more important than someone getting home safe at the end of the day.
The ACT Government is committed to providing leadership to support safe workplaces for young workers.
In August 2017 the Apprentice and Young Workers Safety Advisory Committee was established to consider how best to ensure that apprentices and young people are working in safe environments and are aware of their workplace safety rights and obligations. I look forward to receiving the Committee’s final report next month.
In addition, a proactive audit into the safety of young workers and apprentices is underway by WorkSafe ACT. The audit is looking at compliance with Work Health and Safety requirements, supervision and training, and awareness and knowledge of safety in the workplace.
The Government is always working to improve workplace safety to ensure everyone returns home safely from work and I pass on my appreciation to those who support and champion workplace safety each and every day.
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Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases