20/12/02
For the first time in more than 100 years, Western Australian police officers will now be covered by workplace safety regulations under new laws passed by the State Government.
Police Minister Michelle Roberts said having the new laws, which were passed last night in Parliament, was one of her most significant achievements since taking on the portfolio. It will enable police officers to be included within the scope of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984.
"I have been voicing my concerns over this issue for a long time and I am delighted to finally have the opportunity to instigate change that will bring about enormous benefit to generations of our police officers," Mrs Roberts said.
"The State Government considers it unacceptable that WA police officers have been denied the protection of occupational safety and health laws that other employees take for granted - particularly given that police officers in many other jurisdictions, both within Australia and overseas, are covered by workplace safety legislation.
"This clearly highlights that the State Government is prepared to take action to support our police officers who are performing their duty in the fight against crime."
Mrs Roberts said the Government recognised the need to ensure that complying with workplace safety and health regulations did not prevent or hinder police in their efforts to create a safe and secure environment for all Western Australians.
"I have no doubt that police officers face some hazards that cannot practicably be avoided," she said.
"However, this does not mean that the risk of injury or harm may not be significantly reduced by applying appropriate systems of work, procedures, instruction and training."
Under the new legislation police officers will be entitled to:
- information, instruction and supervision to carry out their work safely;
- protective clothing and equipment; and
- election of safety and health representatives and the establishment of committees.
Mrs Roberts said the legislation also clarified the issue of when an off-duty police officer responded to a situation.
"Any police officer who is carrying out their official duties in helping to safeguard the community is entitled to be protected under these new laws," she said.
Minister's office: 9213 6600
