Safety is union business and as a CPSU member you have access to expert advice and assistance.
We have a few important safety updates below.
WHS representative structures in News
Workers in News have reported that the ABC has decided on a new work group structure after 'consulting' with HSRs. Under the WHS Act, when it comes to your representative structures, workers have a right not just to consultation, but to a negotiation and agreement process. As CPSU members, you have access expert assistance in this area.
Having a say in how you are represented is a fundamental right enshrined in the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act). Health and Safety Representatives hold powers and functions under the Act to help get problems solved and ensure your employer is meeting their obligations when it comes to safety at work.
The CPSU will be contacting the ABC and seeking a discussion to work through an appropriate process to ensure compliance with the WHS Act. In the meantime, if you have questions or concerns, please reach out via or click here to be represented.
Archives and Libraries
Members in Archives and Libraries have forced the ABC to consider safety in all restructures and change processes. As a result of members standing up for their rights and their safety at work, the ABC have committed to genuinely consult with workers through change processes.
The ABC is also required to consider WHS as part of this process. This includes important elements such as job design, workloads, work demands and other identified psychosocial hazards.
This work is not yet complete, and the ABC has several areas to pursue by the end of the month. The CPSU will be closely watching this process, and will continue to involve Comcare as required.
The ABC has committed to several actions evaluating how work is allocated and managed. It is important members participate in this process, and identify where things aren't happening. Let us know if you have any concerns.
HSR handbook
Comcare has recently updated their HSR handbook which is a great resource for workers. This is important not just for HSR's, but for all workers who are interested in their safety at work.
Union HSRs can also be a part of the Safety First Network, which offers expert advice, assistance and training.
If you would like to become more active on safety or if you are an HSR who would like to access this network, you can sign up at Safety First Network.
As always, don't hesitate to reach out to your CPSU team if you need anything.
