WorkSafe inspections
- Step01
- Step02
Observation
The inspector will walk around your work to see if what they’ve heard from you matches what they actually see happening.
- Step03
Examination
If the inspection raises concerns, this is when the inspector will go into more detail to try to discover what might be causing an issue.
- Step04
Documentation
At this point, the inspector might ask to see what kind of systems you keep. This could include anything from machine maintenance logs to training certificates for your workers. The focus will be on whether your systems and records support good health and safety practice in your business.
If the inspector finds an issue
You and the inspector will discuss what needs to be done to address any issues. Sometimes the inspector will give you an improvement notice, which sets out what needs to change and a timeframe for those changes.
If there are more serious concerns, the inspector could tell you to stop using a dangerous piece of machinery and will give you a prohibition notice.
In very rare circumstances – typically only following harm or death – an inspector might give an infringement notice, which could lead to prosecution.
Ask questions during the visit, especially if you don’t understand something or want more information. The more dialogue there is between you and the inspector, the more valuable the visit will be.
Remember that inspectors are allowed to show up at a workplace at any reasonable time, with or without the owners being there.
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