Investigation into alleged ARREO breaches
An investigation is underway into alleged breaches of a health and safety law which allows court-authorised union representatives to visit workplaces to enquire into safety concerns.
Three officials were allegedly prevented from boarding the semi-submersible floating oil rig, Ocean Patriot, at Portland last week. The rig is in Portland for a major refit.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 allows Authorised Representatives of Registered Employee Organisations (ARREOs) to visit workplaces if they reasonably suspect a contravention of the Act or the regulations has occurred or is occurring.
Obstruction and hindering an ARREO is an offence. If prosecuted, the company could be fined more than $30,000. Individuals can be fined more than $6000.
WorkSafe’s executive director, John Merritt, said the ARREO system had been working well since it was introduced in mid 2005.
“ARREOs play an important role in the state’s workplace health and safety system as they identify health and safety risks and breaches and raise the issues with employers or WorkSafe.
“They can help improve workplace safety consultation to ensure safety risks are minimised.”
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