WorkSafe has released a reminder saying that workers can report workplace hazards and incidents in confidence 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
WorkSafe WA commissioner Ian Munns said, “It is sometimes reported that it is not possible to anonymously report hazards or incidents to WorkSafe or to keep a report confidential, but that is not the case.
“There are a number of ways in which workers can report workplace hazards or incidents to WorkSafe without fear of their identity being disclosed to others.”
Munns said workers can submit a report online at any time of day or night from any location they feel comfortable with if they need privacy.
He reassured that contact details need to be provided — and these will not be divulged to the employer — so that an inspector can obtain further information and follow up the report.
“WorkSafe encourages a consultative approach in workplaces, and hazards and incidents should initially be reported to the employer or an elected safety and health representative,” Munns said.
“But if consultation does not resolve the issue, or if a worker does not feel comfortable reporting within the workplace, they can report the matter to WorkSafe and request an inspector’s intervention.”
Both online and telephone reports are welcome by WorkSafe Western Australia.