$5k fine for OHS breaches

A PROMINENT employer has been slapped with a $5000 fine by the National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) for occupational health and safety (OHS) breaches.

Ministry for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations permanent secretary Maritino Nemani said in a statement those breaches under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HASAWA) 1996 and the Health and Safety at Work (General Workplace Conditions) Regulations 2003 were because of unsuitable transport for workers, unhygienic work environment, and poor and lack of facilities provided.

This was revealed by the ministry’s OHS inspectors after conducting OHS investigations into the employer.

“These included absence or lack of hand washing facilities, first aid kit, separate changing rooms, hot water facilities, clean drinking water, congested dining area and proper personal protective equipment such as respiratory protection and face mask,” Mr Nemani said.

“The fine issued underscored the importance of maintaining a safe working environment for workers and the severe consequences of failing to do so.

“In light of these penalties, we wish to forewarn all employers that the ministry will take action against employers who are found to be in violation of occupational health and safety law and will be dealt with to safeguard the well-being of workers and prevent avoidable workplace incidents.”

Mr Nemani said it was imperative that employers took proactive measures to ensure compliance with safety standards, implement necessary safety protocols, and regularly assess and address potential hazards in the workplace.

He said fines imposed for non-compliance were not only a punitive measure but also a call to action for all workplaces to invest in the safety and welfare of their workers.

“The ministry is committed to working in collaboration with employers to promote a proactive and preventative workplace safety culture to prevent workplace injuries and accidents under the HASAWA 1996 and its subsidiary legislation.”