Queensland unions welcome move to safer workplaces

Queensland unions have welcomed a state government proposal to introduce an offence of “negligence causing death” as part of a wide-ranging review into workplace deaths.

QCU General Secretary Ros McLennan said it would act as a deterrent for negligent employers who operate unsafe workplaces.

“We have long called for tougher offences to make sure that dodgy bosses and their companies don’t just get a slap on the wrist if their negligent actions have led to a workplace fatality,” she said.

“Last year in Queensland there were 40 workplace fatalities notified to authorities. Just one death is one too many, and this deterrent will make sure that companies don’t cut corners and put profits ahead of people,” she said.

“We encourage the government to bring these laws into Parliament as soon as possible. These laws can’t come soon enough because there’s nothing more important than workers coming home safe after a day’s work,” Ms McLennan said.