The Role of Inspectors
WorkSafe has inspectors who are responsible for enforcing the Act and Regulations. They have wide-ranging powers to help them fulfil their functions.
Inspectors have powers to:
enter, inspect and examine workplaces;
conduct examinations and enquiries;
take samples, photographs, records and measurements;
take possession of materials;
require that the workplace be left undisturbed;
interview any person at the workplace; and
obtain assistance from any person at the workplace.
Inspectors have to avoid unduly or unreasonably interfering with the work being carried out in any workplace. Inspectors may issue written directions called Improvement or Prohibition notices.
Improvement and Prohibition Notices
An improvement notice is a written direction requiring a person to fix a safety and health problem in a workplace. The notice will state the part of the Act or Regulations covering the offence, and set the date for the improvement to be completed.
A prohibition notice is a written direction that prohibits (stops) any activity where the inspector thinks someone may be at risk of imminent (immediate) and serious harm.
The inspector will remain at the workplace until the employer has been told about the notice and the activity has stopped.
 |
|
Only inspectors may issue improvement or prohibition notices. |
Improvement and prohibition notices will give the reason for the issuing the notice.
The employer must display the improvement or prohibition notice in a prominent place at or near any workplace affected by the notice until the requirements of the notice have been met.
A person, who has been issued a notice, or that person's employer, can ask for a review of the notice.
