WorkSafe has charged Paspaley Pearling Company Pty Ltd for failing to provide and maintain a safe working environment for its employees.

The prosecution arises from an incident on April 14, 2012 in which 22-year-old pearl diver Jarrod Hampton died.

Paspaley Pearls has been charged under Section 19(1) and 19A(3) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984.  The maximum penalty for this offence is $200,000.

WorkSafe WA Commissioner Lex McCulloch said today the charge was an important step in an extensive WorkSafe investigation.

“The investigation was a significant and complex one involving extensive WorkSafe resources,” Mr McCulloch said.

“WorkSafe conducted a thorough investigation of all the circumstances surrounding the incident, and this prosecution action completes the process.

“The matter is now in the hands of the courts, and WorkSafe will not make any further comment.”

Sound bite (Lex McCulloch):

Media contact: Caroline De Vaney 9327 8744 or 0408 927563 (media enquiries only)

caroline.devaney@commerce.wa.gov.au

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