Issue Date:  -  Monday, 18 September 2006

Warning issued to check inspectors’ identification

WorkSafe has issued a warning on individuals falsely claiming to represent the agency, and advised business owners that proof of identity should be requested.

WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said today that WorkSafe had received several calls recently seeking clarification on its activities after visits from people claiming to be from WorkSafe.

“One business owner said he had received a call from a person claiming to be a WorkSafe representative and wanting to make an appointment to conduct an inspection,” Ms Lyhne said.

“This person did conduct an “inspection” of the workplace, then told the owner he needed to fix some problems, and if he did not he would be fined $20,000.

“The owner was then told he needed to purchase a $750.00 safety instruction book and the visitor demanded immediate payment, even offering to drive the owner to the bank to get the money.

“To his credit, the owner demanded further information and was reluctantly given a website address and discovered that the so-called “WorkSafe representative” was indeed from a private occupational safety and health consulting company.

“We have had several enquiries about organisations employing questionable practices in order to sell products, and the message is to always ask for proof of identity from anyone who claims to be connected with WorkSafe.

“All WorkSafe inspectors carry photo identification cards which they will show when they enter a workplace, and they certainly will not attempt to sell any product.

“It is an offence under Section 47(1)(a) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act to impersonate a WorkSafe inspector, and we would be more than happy to hear from anyone who suspects this may be taking place.”

Media contact:
Caroline De Vaney
9327 8744
0408 927563