Inspection program for pubs, taverns and bars begins next month
Issue Date: - Thursday, 28 August 2008
WorkSafe will launch an inspection campaign in pubs, taverns and bars next month with a view to reducing injuries and disease in the sector.
The campaign will involve inspectors visiting a number of pubs, taverns and bars to identify any common safety risks and provide employers with information on how to comply with the requirements of occupational safety and health laws.
WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said today the campaign had been discussed with the industry to make it aware of what will take place.
“Inspectors have met with the Australian Hotels Association and Australian Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers’ Union, and information has been sent to around 650 pub, tavern and bar employers informing them of the upcoming campaign,” Ms Lyhne said.
“The campaign is part of an ongoing program of proactive inspections in industries that – due to particular injury risks – are considered worthy of special attention.
“These proactive campaigns aim to provide employers with information on how to comply with the laws, but if the inspectors find breaches of these laws, they will take enforcement action.”
A team of WorkSafe inspectors will undertake the inspections over the period from September to November, visiting a random selection of 60 workplaces in both metropolitan and regional areas of the State.
The inspections will be conducted with the aid of a checklist to ensure a consistent approach. Some of the areas that will be looked at are:
• Manual handling;
• Slips, trips and falls;
• Electrical safety;
• Hazardous substances;
• Guarding of machinery, including dough machines;
• Violence and aggression, including cash handling;
• Forklifts;
• Noise issues where music is provided;
• Provision of training and induction to new workers; and
• Evacuation and emergency procedures.
Ms Lyhne said that raising awareness was the primary objective of WorkSafe’s proactive inspection campaigns.
“Campaigns such as this one aim to make everyone more aware of the hazards in their workplaces so the risk of injuries is lessened,” she said.
Further information on providing and maintaining a safe workplace can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777 or on the website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.
Media contact: Caroline De Vaney 9327 8744