WorkSafe has reminded workers and the community that hazards and incidents in their workplace can be anonymously reported by telephone or in writing.

Reports can also be made online 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but it is necessary to provide contact details – which will not be divulged to the employer - so inspectors can make contact to obtain further information.

WorkSafe WA Commissioner Ian Munns today reassured workers that reports and complaints could be made to WorkSafe in confidence.

“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,” Mr Munns said.

“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.

“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.

“Online reporting allows reports to be made at any time of day or night, from home or any other location if the person feels they need privacy.

“Contact details must be given so an inspector can follow up the report, but the inspector will not divulge the source of the report when they visit the workplace,” he said.

“When contact details are provided, a reference number is given that confirms the report has been made and allows the person making the report to add further information at a later date or speak to an inspector about the progress of an investigation.

“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.

“We strongly urge anyone in a workplace to report hazards and incidents with confidence that their privacy will be protected.”

Further information on making a report, along with a link to the online reporting service, can be found on WorkSafe’s website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.

Telephone reports can be made on1300 307877.

Media Contact: Caroline De Vaney, 6251 2363 or 0408 927563 (media enquiries only)

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